Cycling is an enormously healthy use of your time. Through it, you can get a great cardiovascular workout, enjoy the natural world, and get from your house to your workplace and back again. On the whole, the benefits outweigh the risks.
However, cycling does carry with it a risk of injury, especially if you’re riding on public roads. So, what’s the best way to react to a cycling injury, and what support is available to those who have suffered one?
Immediate Actions Post-Injury
In the aftermath of an accident on the road, it’s important that the area is made safe, and that you get medical attention. Even seemingly minor injuries can sometimes turn out to be serious. You’ll also want to thoroughly document the scene of the incident, taking photographs and collecting testimony from witnesses. You might rely on this evidence later on, should you choose to seek a legal remedy.
Understanding Your Legal Rights
Cyclists are protected through a number of legal frameworks, in the same way as other road users. If you’ve suffered harm as a result of the actions of another road user, and those actions would not have been taken by a competent person, then you might have grounds for a claim. These rights are not surrendered by a cyclist who fails to wear a helmet – and, in many cases, your insurance company will also offer you coverage, even if the responsible party doesn’t have any insurance.
Navigating the Compensation Process
So, how do you get the process of seeking compensation started? To begin with, you’ll need to notify the parties involved, including your insurer, and those of any other people involved in the accident. You might negotiate a settlement with the help of all of the evidence you’ve collected. This is an area where the right legal assistance can be invaluable. Look for a solicitor with special expertise in cycling accidents.
Preventive Measures for Future Safety
After you’ve gone through this experience, you might be determined not to repeat it. You can lower the chances of this happening, and improve your all round safety in the saddle, by engaging with local cycling groups, and looking for safer cycling environments. The right group might allow you to collectively advocate to make the roads safer for cyclists in general. Adding your own voice to those of other concerned cyclists might, in the long run, make a safe and healthy cycling environment arrive more quickly.
Avoiding cycling during high-risk times of day, including after dark, can also be helpful. Investing in equipment like helmets, elbow pads, and other protective gear, can also make a difference.
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