Cycling accidents, in short
Canberra has thousands of cyclists, and crashes with cars, trucks and buses are all too common. We help injured cyclists claim. United Legal is a Canberra firm based in Fyshwick. We work on a No Win, No Fee basis and your first conversation is free.
Bicycle Accident: what you need to know
Cyclists injured by a motor vehicle in the ACT can claim benefits under the motor accident scheme, the same as drivers and passengers. Injuries are often serious, including broken collarbones, wrist and hip fractures, and head injuries.
If your crash did not involve a vehicle, for example because of a pothole or a hazard on a shared path, you may still have a public liability claim against whoever was responsible.
Common cycling accidents
- Car doors opened into a cyclist
- Vehicles turning across a bike lane
- Being clipped by passing vehicles
- Collisions at roundabouts and intersections
- Potholes and hazards on roads and paths
- Collisions with buses and trucks
Cyclists and Canberra roads
Canberra has a lot of cyclists and shared paths. Collisions with cars, car doors opening into bike lanes and poorly maintained paths cause serious injuries. If a motor vehicle was involved, the MAI scheme usually applies.
If no vehicle was involved, for example you crashed because of a hazard on a path, you may have a public liability claim against whoever was responsible for maintaining it.
What you can claim after an accident
Under the ACT Motor Accident Injuries Act 2019 you can claim defined benefits such as treatment and care, and income replacement while you cannot work, generally whoever was at fault. If someone else was at fault and your injuries are serious, you may also be able to make a common law claim for a lump sum.
Read more about motor vehicle accidents claims.
Evidence that helps your claim
You do not need to have everything before you call us, but these records make a motor accident claim stronger. Keep copies of anything you have:
- The police report number
- Photos of the scene, vehicles and your injuries
- Details of the other driver and their insurer
- Medical records and treatment receipts
- Payslips showing lost income
How much could a cycling accidents claim be worth?
Every claim is different. The amount depends on how serious your injuries are, whether you meet the thresholds for a common law claim, your lost and future earnings, and who was at fault. We give you an honest estimate once we understand your situation, and we prepare every claim to get its full value rather than settling early.
Why people choose United Legal
- Three lawyers on every case. Your claim is checked by more than one experienced lawyer, start to finish.
- A local Canberra firm since 2004. We know the ACT schemes, insurers, doctors and courts.
- No Win, No Fee. No upfront costs, and you get a written costs agreement before we start.
- Serious injury experience. Our results include a $20m+ settlement and a $1.4m workers compensation claim.
Watch: cycling accidents
What to do now
- Call 000 if anyone is hurt, and report the accident to police.
- Get the other driver's name, registration and insurer, and photos and witness details if you can.
- See a doctor, even if you feel fine at first.
- Lodge your claim with the insurer on time, and get advice before you sign anything.
Cycling accidents: FAQs
I came off my bike because of a pothole. Can I claim?
Does it matter that I was not in a bike lane?
A driver opened their door into me. Who is at fault?
My bike and gear were damaged. Can I claim for them?
How much does a motor accident lawyer cost?
Is there a time limit?
Find out where you stand.
Free claim check · No Win, No Fee