As the brighter days and longer nights return to Northern Ireland, the number of cyclists on our roads is set to increase. This will inevitably lead to more accidents and extra caution should be taken when making journeys in the coming months.
Cyclists are classed as vulnerable road users given the limited protection available and therefore, they are more at risk of serious injury in an accident. According to the latest government data, Northern Ireland has seen 2,949 pedal cyclist casualties over the past 10 years, with trends highlighting no significant decrease in these numbers.
Road traffic accidents can be caused by a number of things but some of the most common are:
- Poor road conditions e.g uneven surfaces or potholes;
- Vision impairment e.g sunlight, particularly in the summer months;
- Unsafe driving habits of other road users e.g overtaking to closely to a cyclist;
- Vehicle occupants opening doors into the path of oncoming cyclists;
- Loose animals or debris.
Injuries sustained in cycling accidents can range from the very minor to serious and life-changing. If you have been injured in a cycling accident in the last 3 years that was not your fault, you may be entitled to compensation to cover damage to your bike, compensation for personal injuries and financial losses sustained.
Worthingtons Solicitors have acted in a large number of cycling related cases in recent years and can assist from the outset in securing you the best possible outcome. If you would like to find out more about how our specialist personal injury lawyers could help you, please email [email protected].
028 9043 4015 