Making a pedestrian or cycling accident claim

Posted on June 9, 2026

Cyclists and pedestrians are among the most vulnerable road users, and when they are involved in road traffic accidents the injuries can be serious, long-lasting, and sometimes life changing. With cycling increasing in popularity and more people out walking this spring, road safety remains a major concern.

National Bike Week encourages all of us to swap short car journeys for cycling. However, if you are hit by a car while walking or riding, knowing what to do next is essential. This is where an experienced Personal Injury expert can help by guiding you through the process and securing the compensation needed for treatment, rehabilitation, and getting your life back on track.

Expert pedestrian and cycling accident lawyers

At Pearson, Personal Injury lawyer Lisa Anderson has represented many clients who have been injured while walking on the pavement, crossing the road, or cycling in traffic. Some were hit by uninsured or untraced drivers, and others experienced drivers leaving the scene, but claims were still successfully pursued.

Common pedestrian and cycling accidents include:

Collisions while crossing the road
Drivers failing to give way at junctions or roundabouts
Vehicles suddenly emerging from side roads
“Dooring” incidents caused by parked cars
Hit-and-run accidents

Even if the driver is uninsured or leaves the scene, you may still be able to make a claim through the Motor Insurers’ Bureau (MIB), which compensates victims of uninsured or untraced motorists. Likewise, you may have a valid claim even if you were not using a designated cycle lane or pedestrian crossing, liability depends on the individual circumstances, not just road position.

How to prove you a cyclist ir predestrian claims

To pursue a successful road traffic accident claim, it must be shown that the motorist acted negligently and directly caused your injuries. All road users owe one another a duty of care, and when drivers fail to exercise that care, pedestrians and cyclists inevitably suffer the more severe consequences.

Your accident claim may include:

General damages – for pain, suffering and loss of amenity
Special damages – including medical treatment, rehabilitation, care and assistance, travel costs, damaged belongings and loss of earnings

These damages are vital to support clients with their physical, emotional, and financial recovery.

What to do after a road traffic accident

Your health comes first, but once safe to do so, the following steps can help support your compensation claim:

Seek medical attention immediately, even for minor injuries
Report the incident to the police especially if the driver fails to stop
Gather evidence, such as photographs, dashcam footage and witness details
Keep records of expenses and losses

It is also important to seek legal advice as soon as possible. Personal Injury claims are time-sensitive, and a specialist lawyer can guide you through any deadlines.

Cyclist and pedestrian accident claims can be complex, particularly where liability is disputed or the driver is uninsured. Lisa and the Personal Injury Solicitors at Pearson will:

Investigate how the accident happened
Obtain expert medical evidence
Handle all communication with insurers
Assess and value your claim accurately
Negotiate a settlement, and if needed, issue court proceedings on your behalf

Many personal injury cases settle out of court, but we will always act in your best interests should litigation be required.

Successful pedestrian and cycling accident claims

Cyclist struck by motorist emerging from side road
A 53-year-old cyclist suffered a tibial plateau fracture after a driver failed to give way and collided with him. Although the insurer initially denied liability, further investigations with the police established fault. An initial offer of £25,000 was negotiated up to £40,000.
Pedestrian knocked down at supermarket entrance
A 56-year-old woman was struck by a speeding driver while walking her dog, suffering knee, elbow and psychological injuries and being unable to work. After obtaining medical evidence, an initial offer of £26,205 was rejected, and the claim settled for £84,705.
Elderly pedestrian seriously injured crossing busy high street
An 88-year-old woman sustained multiple fractures and required surgery, rehabilitation and long-term care. Despite the insurer denying liability, even after the driver’s licence was revoked, negotiations resulted in a £110,000 settlement to cover injuries, care, rehabilitation and expenses.

How can we help?

Being hit by a car as a cyclist or pedestrian is often traumatic and can have lasting consequences. Securing the right compensation is essential for rebuilding your health, mobility and independence.

Contact our pedestrian and cycling accident solicitors for clear advice and dedicated support with your accident claim by calling on 0161 785 3500 or email enquiries@pearsonlegal.co.uk

Please note that the information and opinions contained in this article are not intended to be comprehensive, nor to provide legal advice. No responsibility for its accuracy or correctness is assumed by Pearson Solicitors and Financial Advisers Ltd or any of its members or employees. Professional legal advice should be obtained before taking, or refraining from taking, any action as a result of this article.