Concerns Raised Over Rising Death Toll On Roads

Serious injury lawyers who specialise in helping victims of road traffic collisions to gain access to vital rehabilitation have revealed their concerns following reports that the number of cyclists killed on roads across the UK is expected to exceed last year’s figures.

Research by The Times newspaper has revealed that at least 87 people cyclists are thought to have been killed in road crashes this year, with the death figures standing at 13 for September so far alone.

Fresh concerns have been raised by safety campaigners that the number of cycling casualty rates will reach over 120 for the first time in five years. Official figures last year revealed that road deaths increased for the first time in eight.

The study revealed that five of the victims were 12 or under, while 19 teenagers and eight pensioners were also killed.

Irwin Mitchell’s specialist serious injury team have vast experience representing people left with life-changing injuries as a result of road traffic collisions, as well as the families of victims killed as a result of such incidents.

John Davis, a legal expert at the firm’s Newcastle office, specialises in helping victims and their families to gain justice over such crashes, as well as providing support to injured cyclists so they can access vital rehabilitation and support.

Commenting on the reports, he said: “As a result of the success seen in the Tour de France and the Olympics, enthusiasm and interest in cycling has arguably never been higher.

“Tragically, these figures show that despite this growing interest there remains plenty to be done to improve cycling safety across the UK’s roads. With the number of cyclists on the roads only likely to increase, it is vital that the Government and other authorities carefully consider how new provisions can be put in place to better protect them from harm.

“We represent numerous cycling accident victims and families who have lost loved ones as a result of road accidents, seeing first-hand the physical and psychological trauma they are forced to endure.

“It is vital that everything possible is done to learn lessons from the terrible incidents seen in the past, with a view to ensuring that cyclists do not face the same awful problems in the future.”

If you’ve been injured in a road traffic accident whilst cycling, our No Win No Fee solicitors could help you claim compensation. See our Cycling Accident Compensation page for more information.