Cycling Accident Solicitors — Scotland

At Watermans, our experienced cycling accident solicitors are dedicated to providing the legal support you need to move forward. If you’ve been involved in a cycling accident, your injuries may be severe, and the road to recovery can be long. If your injuries were caused by someone else's negligence, you may be entitled to claim compensation.   

Made It Very Easy For Me

"I was very apprehensive starting a claim, but I was helped through every step. I found it a very easy process and was very pleased with the outcome. Watermans were professional and efficient in handling the claim. They made it very easy for me!"

S Costelloe, Personal Injury Claim

The Short of It 

  • Have you been injured in a cycling accident within the last three years that wasn't your fault?

    You could be entitled to compensation.

  • Cycling accident claims can result from negligent

    road users, potholes, spilt substances like oil and grease, and loose animals.

  • Our team of expert cycling injury solicitors is ready to assist with your compensation claim.

    We take the hassle out of the legal process for you.

  • Everything we do at Watermans is about getting you the resolution you need

    and providing straightforward legal advice. It should be that simple.

  • The Long of It 

    Cycling Accidents

    Common cycling accident claims

    As more people turn to cycling to lower their carbon footprint, bike sales across Scotland have increased significantly. A data report by Cycling Scotland has shown a 47% increase in cycling from March 2020 to March 2021. Unfortunately, this has also led to increased cycling incidents and fatalities. Studies indicate that males aged 24 to 44 had the highest rate of cycling injuries in road traffic accidents from 2022 to 2023.

    Many road users fail to exercise due care around cyclists. Cyclists often have little protection and face a higher risk of serious injury in an accident.

    Common causes of cycling accidents include:

    • The actions of other road users – Negligent drivers are often responsible for cycling accidents, with vehicles being one of the most common causes of cyclist injuries. Whether it’s forgetting to check blind spots or misjudging a cyclist’s speed, these actions can lead to critical injuries and valid grounds for a bike accident claim.
    • Spilt substances on the road – Slippery road conditions due to spills can result in dangerous falls. If you’ve been injured due to poor road maintenance, you may be eligible for a cycling accident compensation claim.
    • Potholes and road defects – Uneven road surfaces pose a significant risk to cyclists. If you’ve been hurt due to road defects, a specialist cycling accident solicitor can help determine liability.
    • Objects or animals on the road – Unexpected obstacles can cause cyclists to swerve or fall.
    • Mechanical faults or defective equipment – Faulty bikes or gear can also cause accidents. If a product defect caused your injury, our team can help you claim against the manufacturer.

    If you or a loved one has been injured in a cycling accident, it is time to speak to a highly experienced personal injury solicitor. Even in cases of a hit-and-run accident, our experienced team can guide you through the claims process. Whether the claim is filed directly with the at-fault driver, the highway authorities, or through the Motor Insurers Bureau, our cycling injury lawyers are here to help.

    Cycling Injuries 

    What types of injuries qualify for a cycling accident claim?

    Our cycling accident lawyers can help you make a claim for numerous cycling injuries. Some common injuries sustained in cycling accidents include:

    • Head injuries: Ranging from mild concussions to serious brain injuries, these often require immediate medical attention and lead to significant cycling accident compensation claims.
    • Spinal injuries: These life-changing injuries require appropriate compensation. Our team understands the long-term impact spinal injuries have and will fight to ensure you receive the right support.
    • Broken bones: From simple fractures to complex breaks, we can help you claim for medical expenses and recovery costs.
    • Soft tissue injuries: While they are less severe than other physical injuries, soft tissue damage can still impact your daily life. We ensure these wounds are examined and accounted for in your cycling injury claim.
    • Serious injury: If you’ve suffered from amputations or severe internal damage, we will work tirelessly to ensure you are adequately compensated for long-term support.

    Whatever your injury, Watermans will fight for the best possible outcome for you. Don’t hesitate to reach out — our specialist lawyers are committed to supporting you on your road to recovery.

    Making a Claim  

    How do I make a cycling accident claim?

    The consequences of a bicycle accident can be damaging physically, emotionally, and financially. Injuries can range from broken bones and sprains to more severe trauma, potentially leading to long-term medical treatments or rehabilitation.

    The emotional toll can also be significant, as victims may struggle with anxiety, depression, or a loss of confidence. On top of that, the financial impact can be overwhelming, with medical bills, lost wages, and the costs of repairs or replacing your bicycle to consider.

    Making a cycling accident claim typically involves the following steps:

    • Contact a solicitor: Reach out to our bicycle accident lawyers. We provide expert guidance tailored to your specific situation.
    • Discuss the accident circumstances: Tell us about the details of your accidents, being as thorough as possible. Even small details can be crucial to building a strong case.
    • Gather evidence: We will collect as much supporting evidence as possible, including photos and testimonies from witnesses and medical experts. This may also include CCTV footage, police or local authority reports, and medical records.
    • Identify the responsible party: This could be another road user or a vehicle manufacturer. Our legal experts will help determine who is legally responsible for your injuries.
    • Medical assessment: Undergo medical examinations to assess your injuries and provide medical evidence. This helps establish the extent of your injuries and their impact on your life.
    • Get independent medical reports: These may be required to support your claim. These reports will provide an unbiased assessment of your condition.
    • Negotiate the settlement: Our solicitors will aim to settle your claim fairly. We’ll consider both the immediate and long-term impacts of your injuries and advise the best course of action.
    • Be aware of the time limit: Under Scottish law, court actions need to be made within three years of the accident. However, it’s best to start the process as soon as possible while the evidence is fresh.

    Cyclists are among the most vulnerable road users, so acting promptly is crucial. Speak to one of our specialist cycling accident claims solicitors for tailored advice regarding your personal injury litigation.

    At Watermans, we take the hassle out of the process so you can focus on your recovery. What’s more, we offer a free initial consultation so you can discuss your case with our bicycle injury lawyers with no financial commitment.

    We’ll assess your claim, explain your legal options, and guide you through the next steps, ensuring the process is as straightforward as possible.

    How Much Compensation? 

    How much compensation can I claim for a cycling accident?

    Injuries from a cycling crash can be severe and, in some cases, even life-threatening. Cyclists involved in road collisions often require hospital treatment, followed by a lengthy rehabilitation period. Many will need specialist services such as physiotherapy to aid their recovery.

    This can place a significant physical and emotional strain on the injured cyclist and their family, not to mention the financial hardship that comes with being unable to work for an extended period.

    When taking legal action for a bicycle accident, several factors are considered. This includes:

    • Medical and rehabilitation expenses: Medical costs can quickly accumulate after a cycling accident. Your bicycle injury claim can cover expenses for immediate treatment, ongoing rehabilitation, and any specialist equipment needed for recovery.
    • Loss of earnings: If your injuries affect your ability to work, you can seek compensation for lost wages and potential future earnings. This is especially important in cases where the accident impacts your long-term career prospects.
    • Bicycle replacement or repair: Bicycle damage can lead to expensive repairs or replacements. Our cycling solicitors can help you recover costs for repairing or replacing your bike, along with any damaged accessories.
    • Future medical and care expenses: Depending on the severity of your injuries, you may face ongoing costs. Your claim can include future medical treatments and care needs.
    • Home and vehicle modifications: If your injury requires adjustments to your living space or vehicle, these costs can be included in your cycle accident compensation. This ensures you have the necessary support to accommodate your needs following the accident.
    • Pain, suffering, and loss of enjoyment of life: Beyond tangible costs, personal injury compensation also accounts for the physical and emotional impact of the accident. This can include pain, suffering, and loss of quality of life. All our lawyers will work to ensure you receive fair financial compensation for these less quantifiable aspects.

    In some cases, interim payments may be available to cover immediate needs while your claim is being processed. The party responsible for your accident may be required to make these payments before the final settlement.

    Remember, every case is unique, and the compensation you receive will depend on the specific impact of your injuries.

    In cases of severe injury, higher compensation may be awarded to reflect the long-term effects on your life, work, and well-being. Your settlement is designed to support your recovery beyond the claims process, ensuring you receive the necessary rehabilitation, treatment, and care.

    Why Watermans?

    Why should I choose Watermans to pursue my claim?

    Watermans makes legal services look and feel easy so people can move forward in life.

    Our road traffic accident experts are committed to securing the maximum compensation for our clients, whether the case is simple or complex.

    We also provide access to a range of additional services, such as physiotherapy and psychological treatment, to ensure you recover from your injuries as soon as possible.

    Trusted Personal Injury Solicitors in Scotland

    Our expertise in personal injury claims covers a wide range of areas, including:

    We represent thousands of clients throughout Scotland each year, securing millions of pounds in compensation for our clients. We work on a no-win, no-fee basis, so there is no financial risk involved if you cannot settle your claim with us.

    Let Watermans handle the legal complexities while you focus on what’s important: your recovery.

    FAQs About Bicycle Accident Claims    

    There is a three-year time limit to make a personal injury claim. However, this doesn’t mean you have three years to start the claims process.

    Instead, you must either raise a court action or settle a claim within this three-year period. There are some exceptions to this rule, so we recommend speaking to our personal injury solicitors for specialist advice regarding the best course of action.

    In Scotland, if the injured party lacks the mental capacity to make a bicycle accident claim, a trusted individual can pursue the claim on their behalf. This could be done through a power of attorney, an intervention order or a litigation friend.

    A power of attorney would need to be appointed before your accident (while you still have mental capacity), and it should be stated that they have the power to make legal decisions on your behalf.

    A litigation friend could be a parent, guardian or trusted individual who must have your best interests in mind. They can attend court hearings, sign legal documents, and make decisions about the case on your behalf. This applies to individuals below the age of 16.

    Alternatively, your family can apply for an intervention order. This grants one-time legal authority to someone who can make decisions on your behalf.

    Reach out to our team for more information regarding making claims on someone else’s behalf. Our expert cycling accident solicitors are here to offer straightforward legal advice to ensure you get maximum compensation.

    If you’ve been involved in a cycling accident with an uninsured driver or a driver who fled the scene, don’t worry — you may still be able to pursue compensation.

    In these situations, our specialist cycling lawyers can help you make a claim through the Motor Insurers’ Bureau (MIB), an organisation dedicated to compensating victims of accidents involving uninsured or hit-and-run drivers.

    The MIB acts as a safety net, ensuring cyclists and other road users have recourse even when the at-fault driver is uninsured or untraceable. While the process can be more complex, our experienced team is well-equipped to manage these cases.

    We’ll guide you through each step, from gathering evidence to liaising with the MIB, ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve.

    The duration of cycling claims normally depends on the complexity of the case and whether the other party accepts fault. Typically, most claims are resolved within 6 to 18 months. However, more complex cases involving severe injuries or disputed liability may take longer.

    Our experienced bicycle accident solicitors will work diligently to process your claim as efficiently as possible and keep you updated at every stage.

    Most cycling accident claims are resolved through negotiation between your solicitors and the defendant’s insurance company without the need for court proceedings. However, if liability is disputed or a compensation agreement can’t be reached, court action may be necessary.

    Even if court action is initiated, many cases settle before reaching the trial stage. Should your claim go to court, our team will support and represent you throughout the process, ensuring you’re well-prepared and your case is presented effectively.

    We handle cycling injury claims on a no-win, no-fee basis, which means you won’t have to pay any upfront legal costs for your claim. Additionally, many clients have access to legal expenses insurance, which helps cover the cost of legal fees. As your dedicated solicitor, we’re committed to transparency about costs from the outset.

    We also offer free initial consultation to discuss your case and explain the claims process, allowing you to make an informed decision without any financial risk or obligation.

    Let Watermans handle the legal complexities and help you claim maximum compensation for a cycling injury.
    Request a callback from our dedicated cycling accident solicitors today.

    How much could you claim?

    The figures quoted are a rough guide to show you the amount you could receive as compensation for your injury. Our solicitors will advise you in more detail about your specific claim.

    Your claim could be worth...

    Claim Worth

    The figures quoted are a rough guide to show you the amount you could receive as compensation for your injury. Our solicitors will advise you in more detail about your specific claim.

    Get in touch with us

    Everything we do at Watermans is about getting you the resolution you need and making that process straightforward. Start the process by sending us your details below or calling us on 0131 555 7055

    Our personal injury claims expert

    “I enjoy the challenge of putting my clients back in a position they would have been in, had they not been unfortunate to suffer an accident through no fault of their own.”

    John Dillon, Head of Dispute Resolution