What to do if you’ve had a cycling accident abroad

What to do if you’ve had a cycling accident abroad

Cycling around the world has become increasingly popular in recent years, with cyclists of all abilities travelling for competitions, training or just for leisurely holidays in warmer surroundings.

However, accidents can happen – and if you are involved in an incident which was not your fault, then you may be entitled to compensation. You can make a claim wherever in the world you have been injured, but evidence in support of a compensation claim is of great importance.

If you have been injured during a cycling accident abroad, our specialist team at Slater and Gordon can help.

Can I make a cycling accident claim in the UK if the accident was overseas?

If you have been injured while cycling in another country, depending on the circumstances of the accident, it may be possible to make a claim.

Common types of cycling accident compensation claims overseas include:

• Claims against drivers or motorcyclists
• Claims against other cyclists
• Claims against rental companies, if they supply sub-standard equipment

If your accident has taken place while on a cycling tour or package holiday, you may be able to claim under regulations which allow people to claim against a tour operator.

Following a cycling injury abroad, you will be able to establish whether you can make a claim for compensation by speaking with a specialist solicitor.

What evidence should I collect after a cycling accident overseas?

Following a bike accident while travelling, it can be very useful to any claim you may go on to make if you can collect evidence. This can significantly increase your chances of successfully making a cycling accident compensation claim.

• Collect information from any other party involved
• Take photos of the scene and of any damage to your bike and any injuries
• Document every detail and keep a record of what has happened
• Report the accident to your insurance company, package holiday operator and local authorities

How compensation works for accidents abroad

Depending on the circumstances of your cycling accident abroad, the level of compensation you may receive will differ.

In some cases, the level of damages you receive will be determined under English law. However, in other situations, international law may dictate how much compensation you receive.

Each case is different, and the level of compensation you receive will be calculated based on what exactly has happened in your own situation, based on the level of loss, damage and injury.

In addition to compensation, our specialist team will also be able to support you in accessing the care, treatment and rehabilitation you may need if you have sustained injury.

Understanding local laws and insurance

Before embarking on a cycling while overseas, it is very important to familiarise yourself with local laws and regulations. Laws vary greatly between destinations, so make sure you are aware of anything that applies to your destination of choice.

Taking out the appropriate level of insurance should be a priority before you embark on overseas travel, and this can be very important if you do have a cycling accident overseas. Your insurance provider will be your first point of contact in the event of an accident, and can help you quickly establish your rights.

If you are part of a package holiday, your tour operator can also help you become familiar with local laws and regulations, so you can be as prepared as possible for cycling safely. Language barriers can sometimes be an issue in understanding literature and signs, for example, so be sure to ask for assistance if you need it.

How Slater and Gordon can help

Our specialist team at Slater and Gordon will provide a professional and honest approach and can look at the unique circumstances of your situation and advise on whether you may have a cycling accident abroad compensation claim.

We will be able to establish your rights, and whether you may be able to claim under English or international law.

If you have suffered a cycling accident abroad, our specialist team will be able to help - contact us today to speak to a specialist solicitor who can support you in your claim.