Cycling through Lewisham is a popular way to commute, stay active, and avoid traffic congestion. However, the borough’s busy junctions, inconsistent cycle infrastructure, and dense traffic also make it one of the more hazardous areas for cyclists in South London. Should you sustain injuries in a road traffic accident while cycling in Lewisham, you might qualify for compensation.
A cycling injury claim is a type of personal injury case where a cyclist suffers harm due to someone else’s negligence. That negligence could include careless driving, poorly maintained roads, or even dangerous behaviour from other cyclists or pedestrians. Marley Solicitors supports injured cyclists in Lewisham and beyond, helping them secure compensation for the physical, emotional, and financial consequences of their injuries.
Can I claim compensation after a cycling accident in Lewisham?
Yes. If you were involved in a cycling accident that was not your fault, you may have a legal right to claim compensation. Even if you were partly at fault, you could still receive a partial settlement. The law recognises cyclists as vulnerable road users, which means that motorists, local councils, and other road users owe them an increased duty of care.
Busy roads where accidents commonly occur in Lewisham include:
- Loampit Vale and the A20 near Lewisham Station
- The South Circular Road through Catford
- Brockley Road and New Cross Gate junctions
- Routes connecting to Deptford, Forest Hill, and Blackheath
- Residential streets where traffic-calming measures are absent or poorly maintained
These roads experience a high volume of fast-moving traffic, with limited space and inconsistent cycle lanes. You may have a valid claim if a car hit you, forced you off the road, or injured you due to a pothole or hazard.
What types of incidents can lead to a cycling injury claim?
A wide range of accidents can give rise to a cycling injury claim. These include:
- Motorists turning left without checking for cyclists
- Drivers overtaking too closely or speeding
- Car doors that open suddenly can obstruct the path of a cyclist, a situation known as dooring
- Poor visibility or failure to use indicators at junctions
- Hit-and-run collisions
- Lorries and buses encroaching into cycle lanes
- Loose gravel, potholes, or unsafe road conditions
- Unmarked roadworks or missing cycle lane markings
You can still claim if the other party was not a driver, like a pedestrian crossing the road. Marley Solicitors will assess the circumstances of your accident and advise you clearly on whether a claim is likely to succeed.
What injuries can cyclists claim compensation for?
Cyclists often suffer serious or multiple injuries due to their increased exposure compared to other road users. Some of the most common injuries we see from cycling accidents in Lewisham include:
- Fractures to the collarbone, wrists, or arms
- Concussions and traumatic brain injuries
- Facial injuries, including broken teeth or scarring
- Deep cuts, abrasions, or road rash
- Dislocated shoulders or knee trauma
- Spinal damage or whiplash-type symptoms
- Psychological injuries can include conditions such as anxiety, sleep problems, or PTSD
- Long-term pain or reduced mobility
These injuries may require surgery, physiotherapy, or long periods of rest, and they can impact your ability to work or live independently. Even minor injuries that disrupt your life may justify a claim.
What can I claim compensation for?
If your claim is successful, you may be awarded compensation for both physical and financial losses. There are two main types:
General damages
These cover pain, suffering, and loss of amenity. This includes:
- Physical pain and discomfort
- Loss of enjoyment of hobbies or sports
- Long-term disability or cosmetic damage
- Psychological distress and trauma
Special damages
These cover specific financial losses that you’ve experienced as a result of your injuries. Examples include:
- Lost wages or future income
- Medical treatment, physiotherapy, or rehabilitation
- Travel expenses for hospital visits or therapy
- The cost of repairing or replacing your bicycle
- Damaged clothing, helmet, or other gear
- Domestic help or personal care
- Psychological therapy or private treatment
- Costs related to adapting your home or lifestyle
If your injury has affected your ability to work, care for dependents, or live independently, the value of your claim may increase significantly.
FAQs on this matter
What should I do after a cycling accident in Lewisham?
The actions you take immediately after your accident can make a big difference to your claim. Here are six key steps:
- Seek medical attention
Even if your injuries seem minor, visit Lewisham Hospital or a local GP. Your medical records will serve as important evidence. - Report the accident
If a motorist was involved, call the police, especially if they refuse to provide details or leave the scene. - Gather evidence
Take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, your damaged bicycle, and any relevant road signs or conditions. If possible, speak to witnesses and get their contact details. - Retain damaged items
Keep your helmet, clothing, and any broken equipment. These may be useful later. - Record your symptoms and expenses
Keep a recovery diary and store all receipts related to your injury, including transport, medication, and repairs. - Contact a solicitor
Marley Solicitors offers free consultations. We can evaluate your case, explain your options, and handle everything on your behalf.
What if the driver didn’t stop or had no insurance?
You can still claim. If the driver was untraceable or uninsured, you may be eligible for compensation through the Motor Insurers’ Bureau (MIB). This scheme exists to support victims of uninsured or hit-and-run drivers.
We can handle the MIB claim process for you, including collecting evidence, completing forms, and negotiating a fair settlement.
Is there a time limit for bringing a claim?
Yes. In most cases, you must start your claim within three years from the date of the accident. Some exceptions apply:
- Children – Claims can be brought up until the child’s 21st birthday
- People lacking mental capacity – There is no time limit unless or until capacity is regained
It’s always best to start the process early. Waiting too long can make evidence harder to obtain and reduce your chances of success.
Will I have to go to court?
Most claims are settled through negotiation and do not require a court hearing. Your solicitor may initiate proceedings to safeguard your rights in a disputed case, but this doesn’t necessarily lead to a trial. Marley Solicitors will guide you through the entire process and aim for the best possible outcome without unnecessary delays.
Am I eligible to make a claim if I wasn’t wearing a helmet?
Yes. Not wearing a helmet does not automatically disqualify you from making a claim. It may be considered when assessing contributory negligence, which could reduce your compensation, but it does not prevent you from seeking damages.
Can I still claim if I was partly at fault?
Yes. You may still be entitled to compensation even if you share some responsibility for the accident. For example, if you failed to signal or were not in a designated cycle lane, your claim may still succeed, although the final award could be reduced.
We will advise you honestly about your prospects and pursue the maximum amount you are entitled to.
What does no win, no fee mean?
At Marley Solicitors, we fund many of our personal injury cases under no win, no fee agreements. This means:
- You do not pay anything upfront
- You only pay if your case is successful
- Most legal costs are recovered from the defendant
- Our success fee is clearly explained before you sign anything
This structure allows you to pursue your case without taking on financial risk.
Why choose Marley Solicitors?
Marley Solicitors has helped many injured cyclists across Lewisham and South London recover compensation after serious accidents. We offer tailored advice, deep local knowledge, and strong results in personal injury law.
When you work with us, you benefit from:
- Free, no-obligation consultations
- Clear communication and updates throughout
- A dedicated legal expert is handling your case
- No win, no fee representation, where applicable
- Experience with complex cycling accident claims
- Familiarity with Lewisham’s roads and cycling routes
We aim to take the pressure off you so you can focus on recovery.
Speak to our Lewisham legal team today
If you’ve been injured as a cyclist in Lewisham, don’t suffer in silence. Whether the accident was caused by a driver, unsafe roads, or poor signage, you may be entitled to compensation. Marley Solicitors is here to help you take the first step with confidence.
We offer free consultations and will explain your options clearly. Most claims are handled on a no win, no fee basis, so you don’t need to worry about legal costs.
Contact Marley Solicitors today to begin your cycling injury claim. Our Lewisham team is ready to support you every step of the way.
