Road Safety in Autumn
In the run-up to Road Safety Week 2025, taking place from 16 to 22 November 2025 and organised by Brake, the road safety charity, we are looking at different types of road users and providing some guidance on what victims and their families can do following an accident.
In our first article, we will focus on cyclists, who will face a new set of challenges as the longer summer days give way to darker evenings and unpredictable weather.
Every year, 30,000 people receive serious, life-changing injuries, and more than 1,700 people die on UK roads. Unfortunately, cyclists are one of the most vulnerable road user groups, and with many UK roads in poor condition, bike riders face several road safety challenges.
Wet leaves, reduced visibility, and increased commuter traffic can turn even a routine, short ride into a risky one. Whether you are a busy courier rider, a daily commuter, or a recreational weekend cyclist, understanding your rights and the steps to take after a cycling accident is essential.
Below, we look at why Autumn can be a high-risk season for cyclists and answer some frequently asked questions about cycling accident claims.
Why Cycling in Autumn Can Be High-Risk
- The visibility drops: shorter days mean cycling in low light or darkness, especially for commuters who may be leaving early in the morning and coming home in darker evenings.
- Road surfaces worsen: many UK roads are in poor condition, with potholes left unfixed and surfaces continuing to deteriorate. Changing weather conditions can exacerbate the problem, as rain, mud, and fallen leaves reduce traction and increase braking distances.
- Increase in road users: as summer holidays end and children return to school, increased commuter traffic and parents on the school run make the roads busier, which can heighten road user stress and lead to more aggressive driving from motorists.
These seasonal changes can contribute to a spike in cycling-related accidents, but what should you do if you or a loved one is involved in a road traffic accident while riding a bike?
At The Personal Injury People, we specialise in helping cyclists get the support and compensation they deserve if they have been injured in a road accident. Here are some common questions we frequently hear and key points to consider when making an accident claim.
- Can I still claim if I wasn’t wearing a helmet?
Even if you were not wearing a helmet, if the accident was caused by someone else, you will still have a right to claim. Other road users, particularly motorists, still owe you a duty of care.
- If I am partly to blame, will I be judged or penalised?
Road accidents often involve shared responsibility. That does not mean you will not be entitled to compensation. Our specialist road injury lawyers will assess your case fairly and without judgment, giving you a straightforward and honest review of your chances of a successful compensation claim.
- If my accident was caused by poor road conditions, not a driver, can I still make a claim?
Cycling accidents caused by poor road conditions are not uncommon. Councils have a duty to maintain safe roads, and if negligence played a part in your accident, you may still have a claim. Our personal injury team can review your case and let you know your chances of a successful compensation claim.
- I have already paid for physio and bike repairs. Can I claim that back?
Yes, you can include expenses related to your accident when making a claim. Ensure you keep all your receipts and records, and our team will guide you through it.
- Are my injuries ‘serious enough’ to make a claim?
If your injury disrupted your life, even temporarily, you may still be entitled to compensation. For example, suffering soft tissue damage, financial loss from taking time off work or paying for repairs to the damage to your bike or medical expenses as mentioned above.
Cycling Accident Solicitors
Our specialist personal injury solicitors have extensive legal expertise in bike accident compensation claims, ranging from minor injuries to life-changing or fatal bicycle accidents. We can also help cyclists who have been involved in hit-and-run accidents where the driver failed to stop, or with uninsured drivers.
If you want to find out if you can make a compensation claim, contact our team for a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your case. Call 0800 731 7555 or complete the enquiry form to get in touch.
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Road Safety Week 2025
Road Safety Week is Brake (the road safety charity)’s biggest road safety campaign. Every year, thousands of schools, organisations and communities get involved to share important road safety messages and join our call for safe roads for everyone.
At The Personal Injury People, we see firsthand the devastating impact on those affected by road traffic accidents and support the campaign to improve road safety for everyone. Find out more about Brake, how you can take part in this year’s road safety week: https://www.brake.org.uk/road-safety-week