Common Misunderstandings About Cycling Claims
It’s an unfortunate reality of life that we carry beliefs from offhand conversations. How many of us believe something to be wholly true because we were told it once upon a time from someone we trust? I’m certainly guilty of it!
While this doesn’t usually carry too much of an impact, unfortunately it can prove disastrous for those unlucky cyclists caught in an accident. Many cyclists we have spoken to throughout the years delay making a claim because they believe something about the law that simply is not true.
These assumptions can hold you back from receiving the support, rehabilitation, and compensation you need. This guide clears up the most common misunderstandings so you can make informed decisions after an accident.
“I Was Partly at Fault, so I Cannot Claim”
This is one of the biggest misconceptions in cycling accident claims. The reality is that you can still claim even if you were partly responsible. The law recognises that accidents are rarely black and white. Contributory negligence means your compensation may be adjusted, but the right solicitor can still recover a significant portion on your behalf.
A specialist will look at the wider picture. Road layout, driver behaviour, vehicle positioning, junction dynamics, and visibility all matter. Do not rule yourself out before speaking with someone who understands cycling cases in detail.
Check out our Contributory Negligence Guide
“There Were No Witnesses, so My Case Is Weak”
Not having witnesses does not automatically weaken your case. There are many other ways to build strong evidence. CCTV is more widespread than people realise. Shops, buses, taxis, delivery vans, and even private doorbell systems may have captured the incident.
Dashcams and telematics from vehicles in the area can also reveal what happened. Specialist cycling solicitors know where to look and how to secure footage before it is deleted. The sooner you seek help, the better the chance of recovering this evidence.
Check out our What to do after a cycling accident guide
“My Injuries Are Not Serious Enough to Make a Claim”
Cycling injuries often develop or worsen over time. What feels like minor pain at first can later reveal deeper damage. Soft tissue trauma, wrist and shoulder injuries from impact, fractured bones, and psychological harm such as anxiety or reduced confidence on the road can all have long-term effects.
Your injuries do not need to be catastrophic to matter. If your daily life, income, or mobility has been affected, a claim may help you access treatment and rehabilitation at no cost to you.
Check out our cycle injury guide.
“Claims Take Years and Are Not Worth the Stress”
Some people imagine long, stressful legal battles that take several years. While complex cases can take time, many cycling accident claims progress far more quickly. A specialist solicitor understands the process, knows how insurers operate, and can move things forward with far less delay.
Most of the work is handled for you. Your role is to focus on recovering. A well-managed claim should reduce stress, not add to it.
“Solicitors Are Too Expensive”
Many injured cyclists assume legal help is unaffordable. This stops them from getting the representation they deserve. Cycle Legal works on a no win no fee basis, which means you do not pay anything upfront. You only pay if the claim succeeds.
This structure gives you confidence to move forward without financial risk. It also ensures your solicitor is motivated to achieve the best possible outcome.
Check out why we’re your best option post-accident.