Solicitors pedal ahead with personal injury package for cyclists

A Manchester law firm has launched a personal injury service exclusively for cyclists.

Slater Heelis will provide free legal expenses insurance to all cyclists who have suffered an injury through no fault of their own, to remove any of the financial risks of claiming compensation.

Unlike motorists and motorcycle riders, who are usually covered under their car or motorcycle insurance policy, cyclists making a personal injury claim are vulnerable to paying certain costs even when they win.

The Department of Transport reported that a total of 18,477 cycling injuries were recorded in 2016, with the latest figures for Greater Manchester showing 413 cyclists were involved in road accidents in 2015.

The new personal injury package will be available to any cyclists making a personal injury claim with Slater Heelis.

Cyclists who decide to take legal action will be protected against any costs incurred in the event that their claim is unsuccessful, or where the claim is successful but results only in a partially favourable award of costs.

Simon Adamson, head of personal injury at Slater Heelis, said: “Cycling has experienced a real boom in recent years and unfortunately this has also led to a rise in cycling accidents. Cyclists injured through negligence often don’t realise they can obtain compensation for the injuries they suffer and the cost of any necessary private medical treatment, but also for material damage to their bike and cycling gear and earnings lost as a result of the accident.

“We’re seeing an increasing number of cyclists come to us for support with personal injury claims and our new package will enable them to proceed safe in the knowledge that they are fully protected whatever the outcome of their case.”