Unfortunately we all know that cycling in traffic requires skill and nerves of steel.Car drivers sometimes do not consider cyclists as other road users who are worthy of respect and consideration. Cycle lanes are often obstructed by parked cars. Vehicles cut across our path at speed. Car doors open without any warning. We are all too familiar with the problems. Thankfully the courts and civil law are generally favourable to cyclists. As a fellow cyclist I am happy to act for all cyclists who are involved in an accident and suffer personal injuries from a minor spill to serious injury. In addition the legal costs are generally paid by the other party. In the event of an accident please follow the following guide. (if you are physically able to)

• Get the name and address and registration number of the driver and if possible insurance details.
  
  
• Get the name and address and mobile phone number of any witnesses.

• Get the name of the police officer and the police station dealing with the accident.

• Get the offending driver to sign a written acceptance of liability. Carry a piece of paper and a pencil. If the driver refuses, is abusive or evasive stay calm to help defuse the situation and ring the police. If you do not carry a phone ask someone to do so. Nearly everyone has a mobile. Ensure someone rings the police if you have suffered any personal injuries.

• If you feel you require hospital treatment go to hospital. On the otherhand we have successfully managed many claims where injured parties did not seek hospital treatment as injuries did not develop until the following 1 to 2 days.

• Please also note that a fund exists to compensate injured parties where drivers are uninsured or fail to remain at the scene.

A few do nots :

• Do not forget your helmet and do not wear a walkman. Although this does not prevent us from claiming lets minimise our injuries and the chances of an injury;

• Do not admit liability;

• Do not forget to instruct a solicitor at your earliest convenience.
  I am at your service and can be contacted at 02890860335

© 2002, Reavey & Company Solicitors,      www.reavey-ni.com