Cycling is a great way to get some fresh air, get fit and move around our community while causing less damage to the planet! But if someone experiencing a cycling injury,  the results can be devastating. Not only is there damage to the bike, but there can be pain, the need for treatment and an adverse impact on the ability to work.

It may not always be clear what options are available to people who need support after being hurt riding their bike. It can feel as isolating as a long solo ride! But depending on how the accident happened, there are a variety of avenues which could provide support when recovering from a cycling injury.

 

What are your options after a cycling injury? 

  • If a vehicle caused an injury, a claim against the CTP insurer of the vehicle at fault is an option;
  • The Queensland Workers Compensation Scheme provides support to employees in the form of treatment, rehabilitation and income benefits if a cyclist was injured whilst working, on their way to or from work, or on a break.
  • If another cyclist caused the accident, a public liability claim is an avenue to explore;
  • If the road surface is defective or there is poor design or maintenance of the road, the entity involved in the design, construction or maintenance could be responsible for the accident.
  • If there was a defect in the bicycle, then the manufacturer, supplier or distributor of the bike could be subject to a product liability or consumer law claim.
  • Insurance policies attached to superannuation accounts (or privately held policies) can include income protection benefits or Total & Permanent Disability (TPD) lump sum benefits.
  • Some sporting associations have insurance coverage for their member or participants in the sport.
  • An injured rider may also be eligible to apply to participate in the National Disability Insurance Scheme and get funding for supports and services to assist and manage a disability.
  • The Victims of Crime compensation regime may also assist cyclists who were injured by a criminal act (e.g. an assault whilst riding).

Prompt advice is important to make sure cyclists rights are protected and hopefully, with the right support, riders can get back on their bike and their lives back on track.

 

How can Evolve Legal help me?

If you have been injured while riding your bike and are wanting legal advice, we can help you!

Evolve Legal assists individuals with tailored legal advice to fit their individual needs. Call Evolve Legal today on 1300 025 101.

Posted in: Personal Injury

May 19 2020