The number of cyclists in Bristol who cycle at least once a week increased from 5% in 2015 to 28% in 2021, Sustrans reported. According to the Department for Transport’s ‘Reported Road Casualties in Great Britain’ annual report for 2023, pedal cycle traffic increased by 39% between 2004 and 2023. Unfortunately, more cyclists on the road lead to more accidents. In 2023, the Department for Transport reported that 87 cyclists were killed in Great Britain, while 3,942 were reported to be seriously injured, and 10,970 slightly injured.

It is reported that during this period, the most common contributory factor allocated to pedal cyclists in fatal or serious collisions with another vehicle was that the driver or rider failed to look properly. Other common causes of accidents involving cyclists are those caused by a pothole or uneven road surface, vehicles pulling out at a junction and not allowing enough time between them and the cyclist, opening vehicle doors in front of an oncoming cyclist, and dangerous driving.

Accident by another road user

Changes to the Highway Code were introduced in early 2022 which gives cyclists more rights on the road. Cyclists are considered vulnerable road users as they do not have the same level of protection as a motor vehicle, meaning injuries can often be more severe.

Under the new code, changes have been made to suggest that drivers should leave a gap of 1.5 metres when overtaking at up to 30mph, with the gap increasing at higher speeds. Further recommendations include that drivers should not turn across the path of a cyclist that is continuing ahead on the same road. This is a common cause of accidents involving cyclists.

Accident by a pothole

Potholes are often hard to see until its too late, making them extremely dangerous. Potholes can cause cyclists to be thrown off their bike and seriously injured. The RAC estimates that drivers have to contend with at least one million potholes on the country’s road. Potholes are on the increase and no doubt you have spotted one recently.

Under the Highways Act 1980, section 41 places a duty for the highway authority (Council), to maintain highways which they are responsible for, within a reasonable time period. Councils are not expected to repair all defects, but instead are obliged to repair ‘actionable defects’, so defects of a specific size.

If you have been injured as a result of an accident whilst riding your bicycle which was not your fault, please contact one of our expert personal injury lawyers for advice. We provide advice to clients all over the UK from our six offices across the Southwest.

Please telephone us on 01934 410910 or use our online enquiry form on our website. We will then arrange a free face-to-face or telephone consultation, at a time suited to you.