Having an accident while on your bike is not a situation cyclists want to find themselves in. In 2022 over 15,000 cyclists were involved in crashes and accidents in the UK, according to the Department for Transport. Whilst it’s the last thing you want to be involved in, being prepared can help prioritise your safety and others.
Let’s go through a simple checklist of actions to take if you find yourself in this situation. Covering how to best protect yourself at the scene of an accident, assessing your bike and what the most common bike accidents are to be aware of.
What to do after a bike accident?
Prioritise Safety
Following a cycling accident, you’ll want to make sure you and anyone else moves away from danger. If possible, move yourself and your bike to a safe place to avoid further injury from traffic or other hazards.
Check yourself for injuries. If you or anyone else is seriously injured, call emergency services for assistance immediately. Not only can paramedics help with injuries, but police may need to assist with traffic.
Assess severity & take evidence
Try to remain as calm as possible. Take a few deep breaths to help manage any anxiety or shock.
In the event of a more severe bike accident emergency services are likely to intervene and you may be required to report the accident formerly.
If you are able and in less serious cycling accidents it is worth taking as much information as you can from the scene. If there are others involved, exchange contact and insurance information. You should also try to get the names and contact details of any witnesses.
Ideally take photos of the accident scene, including the position of the bikes, any damage, and relevant road signs or signals. This documentation may be useful later.
Seek Medical Attention
Even if your injuries seem minor, it’s advisable to seek medical attention. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent, and prompt medical care can help identify and address potential issues.
Watch for Delayed Symptoms
Be aware of any delayed symptoms, especially if your head has been knocked. You could experience headaches, dizziness, or pain that may develop after the accident. Report these symptoms to a healthcare professional.
Contact Your Insurance Company
If the bike accident is more serious you may need to make a claim, especially if other vehicles have been involved. It is worth notifying your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible. Even if you don’t need to make a claim yourself, you should also be prepared if a claim is made against you.
Get a Bike Check
Have your bike inspected for damage. Even if it appears undamaged, there may be issues that could affect its safety.
What to check on your bike after an accident?
After a bike accident, it’s important to thoroughly inspect your bike for any damage to ensure it is safe to ride. Any underlying issues could lead to another bike accident. You may have the experience to do this yourself however, you may find a specialist bike technician will be able to make a more reliable check.
These are the main parts that should need a check:
Frame and Fork
Look for cracks, dents, or bends in the frame and fork. Pay close attention to areas near welds or joints.
Handlebars
Check for any twisting or bending of the handlebars. Ensure they are straight and securely attached.
Brakes
Test both the front and rear brakes to ensure they are working properly. Check for any damage to brake levers and make sure the brake pads are aligned and not excessively worn.
Wheels
Spin each wheel to check for wobbling or misalignment. Look for broken or loose spokes. Examine the rims for damage.
Tyres
Inspect the tyres for cuts, punctures, or bulges. Ensure they are properly inflated and seated on the rims.
Drivetrain
Check the chain, derailleur, and cassette for damage. Ensure the chain is properly lubricated. Shift through all gears to make sure the drivetrain is functioning smoothly.
Pedals
Examine the pedals for any damage or bending. Ensure they spin freely and are securely attached to the crank arms.
Saddle and Seat post
Check the saddle for any damage, and make sure it is securely attached to the seat post. Inspect the seat post for bends or cracks.
Suspension (if applicable)
If your bike has front or rear suspension, check for any leaks, damage, or unusual noises. Test the suspension by bouncing on the bike to ensure it compresses and rebounds properly.
Gears and Shifters
Test the gear shifters to make sure they are operating smoothly. Ensure the cables are not frayed or damaged.
Lights and Reflectors
If you have lights or reflectors, make sure they are intact and functioning. Visibility is crucial for safety.
Accessories
Check any additional accessories such as racks, fenders, or baskets for damage. Ensure they are securely attached.
Check for Loose Bolts
Inspect all bolts and fasteners on the bike for tightness. Pay attention to the stem, handlebars, seat post, and other critical components.
What are the most common cycling accidents?
Bike accidents can occur for various reasons, and understanding the common causes can help cyclists, motorists, and pedestrians take measures to prevent them. As an experienced cyclist you are likely more aware of the risks but for those new to cycling having a greater awareness of these scenarios can help avoid them.
Motorist-Cyclist Collisions
Right Hook: A right-turning motorist may collide with a cyclist traveling straight through an intersection.
Left Cross: A left-turning motorist may collide with a cyclist approaching from the opposite direction.
Dooring
Cyclists can be injured when a parked car driver or passenger opens a door without checking for oncoming bikes.
Junctions
Collisions often occur at junctions due to confusion about right-of-way or failure to give way.
Poor Road Conditions
Potholes, uneven surfaces, gravel, or other road hazards can cause cyclists to lose control and crash.
Distracted Driving or Riding
Both motorists and cyclists can contribute to accidents by being distracted. As a cyclist you can look out drivers that may not have their full attention on the road.
Failure to Obey Traffic Signals
Running red lights or stop signs, or not following traffic rules, can lead to collisions.
Inadequate Lighting
Riding without proper lighting, reduces visibility and increases the risk of accidents. This especially relevant at times when the light is low around dusk and if streets are badly lit or not at all.
Unsafe Overtaking
Motorists passing cyclists without giving them sufficient space can lead to dangerous situations.
Speeding
Excessive speed by motorists or cyclists reduces reaction time and increases the severity of accidents.
Drunk Driving or Cycling
Impaired judgment and coordination due to alcohol or drugs contribute to a higher risk of accidents.
Unexpected Turns or Lane Changes
Cyclists or motorists making sudden turns or lane changes without signaling can lead to collisions.
Equipment Failures
Mechanical failures in a bike or its components, such as brakes or tyres, can lead to accidents.
Aggressive Behaviour
Aggressive driving or riding, such as tailgating or aggressive passing, can increase the risk of accidents.
Weather Conditions
Adverse weather, such as rain, snow, or strong winds, can make roads slippery and reduce visibility.
Lack of Bike Infrastructure
In areas without proper bike lanes or infrastructure, cyclists may be forced to share busy roads with vehicles, increasing the risk of accidents.
How to prevent bike accidents
Preventing bike accidents involves a combination of proactive measures, awareness, and responsible behaviour.
Wear Safety Gear
Always wear a properly fitting helmet to protect your head in case of a fall or collision. Additionally, consider wearing reflective clothing and using lights, especially when riding in low-light conditions.
Follow Traffic Rules
Obey traffic signals, signs, and road markings, just like any other vehicle on the road. Ride in the same direction as traffic, and use designated bike lanes when available.
Be Predictable
Signal your intentions using hand signals for turns and stops. Make your movements clear and predictable to other road users.
Stay Visible
Make yourself visible to motorists, pedestrians, and other cyclists. Avoid wearing dark clothing. Use lights, reflectors, and brightly coloured clothing to enhance your visibility, especially during dawn, dusk, and nighttime rides.
Stay Alert and Aware
Pay attention to your surroundings and stay alert to potential hazards. Avoid distractions such as using device while riding.
Maintain Your Bike
Regularly check and maintain your bike to ensure it is in good working condition. This includes checking brakes, tyres, gears, and other essential components.
Choose Safer Routes
Plan your routes to include roads with bike lanes or lower traffic volume. Familiarise yourself with bike-friendly paths and trails in your area.
Be Cautious at Junctions
Junctions are common locations for accidents. Exercise extra caution, follow traffic signals, and make eye contact with drivers before crossing.
Ride Defensively
Assume that others on the road may not see you. Anticipate potential dangers and be prepared to react quickly if needed.
Watch for Parked Cars
Be cautious when riding past parked cars, as doors can unexpectedly open. Leave enough space to avoid collisions with opening car doors.
Communicate with Other Road Userss
Make eye contact with drivers and pedestrians to ensure they are aware of your presence. Use hand signals and make gestures when needed.
Be Mindful of Weather Conditions
Adjust your riding style in adverse weather conditions. Be cautious of wet or slippery roads, and ensure your bike is equipped for varying weather.
Get Cycling Travel Insurance with SportsCover Direct
Preparing for cycling accidents is one step towards protecting yourself should you find yourself involved in one. However, make sure you are fully aware of the financial ramifications that you also need protection from. Whether it’s damage to your bike, medical costs or a claim is brought against you when an accident is considered your responsibility.
That’s why – even if your cycling would be considered relatively low-risk – taking out comprehensive insurance cover is so important. At SportsCover Direct, we provide affordable cycling insurance to riders of all levels of ability and experience, and all types and value of bikes. So, if you get injured while riding, injure someone else, suffer damage to your bike or equipment, or your cycling trip is disrupted, we can make sure you don’t end up out of pocket.
Our policies are available through flexible payment plans and start at just a few pounds a month. Take a closer look at our cycling insurance options today.
Bee Ingram
Content Writer for SportsCover Direct
This blog has been created as general information and should not be taken as advice. Make sure you have the correct level of insurance for your requirements and always review policy documentation.