Bicycle Accident Claim Frequently Asked Questions
Cyclist Claims Compensation & Bike Replacement Explained
If you’ve been involved in a cycling accident, you’ll probably have some questions. We cover everything from making a hit‑and‑run cyclist claim to understanding cycling injury compensation or whether you can get a new bike. These frequently asked questions give clear expert guidance on the cycling accident claims process including no‑win‑no‑fee cycling claims and what support you can expect after a bike collision. It’s designed to help you quickly understand your options and feel more confident about your next steps.
If you still have a question we are just an email or a call away.
Frequently Asked Questions Asked by Our CustomersFrequently Asked Questions Asked by Our Customers
We often get asked similar questions about accidents. Here are some of them that you may find helpful:
🟠 Need Advice?
If you’ve been involved in a cycling accident, you don’t need to navigate it alone. Specialist advice can make the difference between a small pay out and a fair settlement.

Aidan Gribbin
Cyclist Claims founder
Yes, you can. It can be tricky and there is no guarantee that it will work, but we use a government backed scheme called the Motor Insurance Bureau. Each case is looked at on an individual basis so there is no hard and fast rule.
Potentially. It can be tricky, but we have some clever ways to help. For example, they have cycling insurance it will cover you and also some household insurance policies have third party cover.
Yes, often you can but we need to look at each bike claim on an individual basis before we decide.
The industry standard now is that we generate our income from a percentage of your settlement. We don’t get paid until you get your compensation.
If we take your case on, we believe we will win it. If we do, we get paid and you get your cycling accident compensation. If we are unable to win your case and we’ve done a load of work, we’ll not charge you. That is of course unless you are telling us a pack of lies or if the accident was staged.
In a nutshell, we only get paid if we win your case. We will however make all the enquiries we need to establish who is at fault and if we can win your case.
How Much Compensation Can I Get After a Cycling Accident?”
These figures are approximate and not a guarantee. If your claim is successful you may receive less or more.
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Injury Type Description Typical Compensation Range Minor Injuries Soft‑tissue damage, cuts, bruising, short recovery £1,000 – £4,000 Fractures & Broken Bones Broken wrist, arm, hand, or similar fractures £5,000 – £25,000 Index Finger Fracture Fractured index finger with ongoing symptoms £7,780 – £10,440 Head & Brain Injuries Minor head injury to severe brain trauma £1,880 – £350,000+ Back & Spinal Injuries Moderate back injuries to life‑changing paralysis £38,000 – £493,000+ Psychological Injury (PTSD / Anxiety) Mild to severe psychological harm £4,820 – £100,000+ Knee Injuries (Minor–Moderate) Soft‑tissue damage, bruising, minor ligament issues £1,000 – £13,000 Knee Injuries (Serious) Torn ligaments, cartilage damage, long‑term instability £20,000 – £38,000+ Shoulder Injuries (Minor) Soft‑tissue injury, short‑term pain and restriction £2,500 – £7,500 Shoulder Injuries (Serious) Dislocation, fractures, long‑term movement restriction £12,000 – £48,000+
Accidents are not always clear cut. We will look at the road layout and speak to both parties. Crucially we’ll talk to any witnesses and the insures and make a decision based on all the information we can get. Even if we believe the accident wasn’t your fault and the third party’s insurers do not, we’ll fight your corner with the full force of the law.
Don’t forget, you won’t be charged for any of the work we do if we can’t win your claim.
Drivers are not always at fault but an emphasis is put on them to be on the lookout for cyclists. The Highway Code follows a hierarchy of responsibility and the motorist has the responsibility to look out for smaller road users.
Gain as much information as you can and let us and our solicitors work on your behalf.
How Long Do I Have to Make a Claim After a Cycling Accident?
Three Years
In the UK, you usually have three years from the date of your cycling accident to start a personal injury claim. This is known as the “limitation period” under the Limitation Act 1980.
Why You Should Start Your Claim as Soon as Possible
Even though you may have up to three years, starting early gives you the strongest case because:
- CCTV and dash‑cam footage is often deleted within 30 days
- Witness memories fade quickly
- Road conditions and hazards can change
- Medical evidence is clearer when gathered early
- Your solicitor can secure better evidence and build a stronger claim
Early action protects both your health and your legal position.
That three‑year deadline applies to most cycling accidents, but there are important exceptions that can shorten or extend the time you have.
Key Time Limit Exceptions for Cycling Accident Claims
1. Date of Knowledge
If your injury wasn’t immediately obvious — for example, delayed concussion symptoms or psychological trauma — the three‑year limit may start from the date you first realised your injury was linked to the accident.
2. Children (Under 18)
The three‑year limit does not start until their 18th birthday. They can claim up to age 21, or a parent/guardian can claim for them at any time before they turn 18.
3. Lack of Mental Capacity
If the injured person lacks mental capacity, there is usually no time limit. The three‑year period only begins if they later regain capacity.
4. Fatal Cycling Accidents
If a loved one has died, the family typically has three years from the date of death or the date they first learned the death was linked to the accident (for example, after a post‑mortem).
5. Hit‑and‑Run or Uninsured Drivers (MIB Claims)
If the driver cannot be identified or is uninsured, you can claim through the Motor Insurers’ Bureau (MIB). The three‑year limit still applies, but early action is strongly recommended.
6. Criminal Injuries (CICA)
If the cyclist was deliberately hit or harmed, the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority usually requires claims within two years.
7. Accidents Abroad
Time limits vary by country and can be much shorter — sometimes one or two years — depending on local law.
Cycling can be great but can go wrong in a heartbeat.
We have a great list of ways to stay safe that has been compiled by the cyclists we have helped. If you have any tips you find have helped you. Please email them to us and we’ll ad them to our list. Also send in your ways to stay warm during your rather fresh rides during the colder months!

