Wrist and Shoulder Injuries After a Cycling Accident | UK Claims Guide

Wrist and shoulder injuries are among the most common outcomes of a cycling accident. When a rider falls, the natural instinct is to extend the arms to break the fall. This often results in fractures, ligament damage, or long-term joint problems.

If you have suffered a wrist or shoulder injury in a cycling collision, it is important to understand both your medical and legal options.

Why Wrist and Shoulder Injuries Are So Common

During a fall, your upper body absorbs much of the impact. The force travels through your hands, wrists, and shoulders. Even at moderate speed, this can cause significant damage.

Common cycling-related injuries include:

• Broken wrists

• Scaphoid fractures

• Dislocated shoulders

• Rotator cuff tears

• Ligament sprains

• Clavicle fractures

These injuries can limit mobility, affect work, and make everyday tasks difficult.

Symptoms You Should Not Ignore

Some wrist and shoulder injuries are obvious. Others develop over time.

Watch for:

• Swelling or bruising

• Reduced range of motion

• Persistent pain

• Numbness or tingling

• Weak grip strength

A scaphoid fracture, for example, may not show clearly on an initial X-ray. Early medical assessment is essential to avoid long-term complications.

How These Injuries Affect Daily Life

Upper limb injuries can be more disruptive than many people expect. You may struggle to:

• Drive

• Work at a desk

• Lift objects

• Care for children

• Return to cycling

For self-employed individuals or manual workers, even temporary loss of function can result in lost income.

If surgery or physiotherapy is required, recovery may take months.

Can You Claim Compensation for a Wrist or Shoulder Injury?

Yes. If another road user was responsible for the collision, you may be entitled to compensation.

A cycling accident claim can cover:

• Pain and suffering

• Medical treatment

• Physiotherapy

• Loss of earnings

• Travel expenses

• Damage to your bike

Even injuries that are not life-threatening can have serious financial and practical consequences. The law recognises this.

Why Specialist Legal Advice Matters

Wrist and shoulder injuries are sometimes underestimated by insurers. They may argue that recovery is straightforward or short-term. In reality, these injuries can cause lasting weakness, stiffness, and ongoing pain.

A specialist cycle accident solicitor understands how to:

• Obtain the right medical evidence

• Assess long-term impact

• Value the claim accurately

• Secure early rehabilitation support

This ensures you are not pressured into accepting less than you deserve.

Protect Your Recovery and Your Claim

If you have suffered a wrist or shoulder injury in a cycling accident, seek medical advice promptly and keep records of all treatment.

Early legal advice also makes a difference. Evidence fades quickly and insurers begin assessing claims immediately.

If you would like clear, specialist guidance, speak to Cycle Legal for a free initial consultation. You focus on healing. We handle the rest.