If you were hurt while cycling because of a driver, an opened car door or a defect in the road, you can usually claim compensation, with no upfront fees.
A cycling accident claim is a claim for compensation if you were hurt while cycling and it was someone else's fault. That could be a driver, someone opening a car door into your path, or a dangerous defect in the road.
The claim is dealt with by the driver's insurer. If the driver wasn't insured or drove off, you can still claim through the Motor Insurers' Bureau, as our hit and run claims page explains.
In Northern Ireland, public roads are looked after by the Department for Infrastructure, so an injury caused by a pothole or other defect is usually claimed against DfI Roads.
There's no automatic payout: DfI checks its inspection and repair records first. Photograph the defect, with something to show its size, as soon as it's safe to.
Helmets aren't a legal requirement for cyclists. You can still claim without one, though compensation for a head injury may be reduced if a helmet would have prevented it.
Three years from the date of the accident in most cases, under the Limitation (Northern Ireland) Order 1989. For a child, the three years usually start on their 18th birthday.
Cycling accidents can lead to severe injuries, including:
If you've suffered any of these injuries, see your GP or go to A&E, and keep a record of your symptoms.
If you've been injured in a cycling accident, you can claim for:
You pay nothing to start your claim and nothing while it runs.
We only handle personal injury and clinical negligence claims, from first advice through to court if it comes to that.
If your claim succeeds, the other side pays your legal costs and you keep 100% of your compensation.
Our legal insurance covers the costs if your claim doesn't succeed.
We'll look at what happened and tell you honestly whether you have a claim. There's no pressure to go ahead.
Road traffic claims are run by Paul Kearney, a solicitor advocate and former barrister, with trainee solicitor John Deeney.
We help clients across Northern Ireland, in person or by phone, email or video.
A cycling accident claim allows you to seek compensation if you were injured in an accident involving a bicycle, whether as a cyclist, pedestrian, or another road user.
You can claim for injuries such as fractures, spinal injuries, head trauma, internal injuries, and psychological distress caused by the accident.
Yes. If the driver's negligence or reckless driving caused the accident, you can claim compensation for your injuries.
Yes, if you were injured as a pedestrian or another road user in a cycling accident, you have the right to claim compensation for your injuries and related losses.
Usually three years from the date of the accident. It's best to contact us early, while evidence such as CCTV and witness details is easier to get.
It's always best to report the accident as soon as possible, but even if you didn't report the accident immediately, we can still gather other evidence such as medical reports and witness statements.
Yes, even if you weren't a cyclist, you may be entitled to claim compensation if the accident involved a cyclist and caused you harm (e.g., if you were a pedestrian or another road user).
The amount of compensation depends on the severity of your injury, the impact it has on your life, lost wages, medical costs, and future care requirements. After reviewing your case, we can provide a more accurate estimate.
Yes. Medical records and an independent medical report show what your injuries are and how they affect you. They are also used to work out your compensation.
Evidence may include photos of the scene, witness statements, medical records, CCTV footage, and police reports. Our team will help you gather the necessary evidence to strengthen your case.
Yes. Even without witnesses, we can use other evidence such as photos, medical reports, and expert testimonies to support your claim.
We will investigate the accident thoroughly and challenge the defendant's defence, using evidence to prove that they were at fault and failed in their duty of care.
Even if you were partially at fault for the accident, you may still be entitled to partial compensation under the principle of contributory negligence.
Most cycling accident claims settle out of court. However, if your case goes to trial, we will fully represent you and guide you through the process.
Every claim is different. On average, claims are resolved within 4 to 6 months, depending on how complex the case is and the evidence involved. We keep you updated throughout.
Yes, psychological harm such as anxiety, PTSD, or loss of confidence caused by the accident can be included in your claim for compensation.
If the accident happened within the last three years, you are likely still within the legal time frame to claim. Contact us as soon as possible to discuss your options.
No. There are no upfront fees. If your claim succeeds, the other side pays your legal costs and you keep 100% of your compensation. If it doesn't, our legal insurance covers the costs.
Yes, if the other road user or entity involved failed to take necessary precautions for the weather conditions (e.g., icy roads or poor visibility), you may be entitled to compensation for any injuries sustained.
Kearney Law Group Ltd is a solicitors' practice regulated by the Law Society of Northern Ireland. Registered in Northern Ireland, company number NI663222. Registered office: Bishop Street Chambers, 26–28 Bishop Street, Derry BT48 6PR.
Kearney Law Group only handles personal injury and clinical negligence claims.
We act for clients across Northern Ireland, including Belfast, Derry, Lisburn, Newry, Craigavon and Bangor. See all the areas we cover.
Contact us to arrange your free first conversation.
Belfast: Scottish Provident Building, 7 Donegall Square West, Belfast BT1 6JH
02890 912 938
Derry: Bishop Street Chambers, 26–28 Bishop Street, Derry BT48 6PR
02871 362 299
Email: [email protected]
Opening Hours:
Monday to Thursday 8am – 8pm
Friday 9am – 5pm
