Insurance

You may have a specific insurance policy covering you for any cycle accidents.  If not, your house insurance usually covers you for the theft of your cycle, subject to nominating the cycle if it is valued over £500. What most people are not aware of is that their house insurance usually covers them for road accidents on their cycle as well.

The insurance does not cover everything. It is likely to cover damage to any other vehicle, but may not cover your own cycle. Also, it will not cover any injuries or other losses you sustain unless you specifically take out cover for this and while the insurer may take over conduct of the claim they will not pursue any losses not covered by the policy.  Just because they appoint solicitors does not mean they will act in your best interests instead of the insurers.

It is important where you are involved in an accident to speak to a lawyer as soon as possible and not leave matters to your insurer. We have come across a number of occasions in the past where people have left matters to their insurer and found they can no longer pursue a claim. 

All claims for personal injury should be brought within 3 years of the accident, although it is possible to claim after this time.  All claims for accident damage (i.e. for your bike and clothing) need to be brought within 6 years.  This means that the claim either has to be settled with the other side or issued at Court within those periods.

Do not leave it till tomorrow.  Do not blindly accept what your own insurer or their solicitors are saying.  Do not assume just because you are insured that your insurers will deal with your claim.

For free, no-nonsense advice call us on (01296) 662770.