Road traffic accidents don’t just affect car drivers. In fact, cyclists, pedestrians, motorcyclists and scooter riders are among the most vulnerable road users on UK roads. When something goes wrong, the injuries can be serious, life-changing, and overwhelming.
At Barker Booth & Eastwood, we have decades of experience supporting injured people across the North West and beyond. We understand the challenges faced by vulnerable road users and are experts in helping clients secure the maximum compensation they are entitled to after a road traffic accident.
Why Some Road Users Are at Greater Risk
Unlike car drivers, cyclists and pedestrians have little to no physical protection. Even low-speed collisions can result in significant injuries such as fractures, head injuries, spinal damage and psychological trauma.
Common causes of road traffic accidents involving vulnerable road users include:
- Drivers failing to look properly at junctions
- Poor visibility in low light or bad weather
- Vehicles overtaking cyclists too closely
- Speeding or distracted driving
- Poor road conditions, including wet or icy surfaces
Motorcyclists and scooter riders are also particularly exposed, with accidents often leading to long recovery times and time off work.
The Impact of Poor Weather and Light Conditions
At this time of year, weather and lighting play a major role in many road traffic accidents, especially during autumn and winter months when visibility is reduced and roads are slippery.
Real-Life Example: Cyclist Injured at Dusk
A cyclist commuting home at dusk was hit by a car emerging from a side road. Although the cyclist had lights fitted and was wearing reflective clothing, the driver later admitted they “didn’t see them in time” due to fading light and rain on the windscreen. The cyclist suffered a broken collarbone and required surgery, extensive time off work and physiotherapy.
This type of accident is sadly common, and liability often rests with the driver for failing to take proper care.
Real-Life Example: Pedestrian Hit in Poor Weather
In another case, a pedestrian crossing a road during heavy rain was struck by a vehicle that failed to stop in time due to wet road conditions. The pedestrian sustained serious leg injuries and ongoing mobility issues. The driver was still found at fault for driving too fast for the road conditions.
Common Injuries in Road Traffic Accidents
Road traffic accident injuries can vary widely but often include:
- Broken bones and fractures
- Head and brain injuries
- Soft tissue injuries and whiplash
- Spinal and nerve damage
- Psychological injuries such as anxiety or PTSD
These injuries can affect not just your health, but your ability to work, care for family, and enjoy daily life.
Can I Make a Road Traffic Accident Claim?
If you have been injured as a cyclist, pedestrian, motorcyclist or scooter rider due to someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation. This can include claims against a negligent driver, an uninsured or hit-and-run driver, employers (for work-related travel accidents) or local authorities (for poorly maintained roads, lighting or signage).
Compensation can cover:
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of earnings
- Medical expenses
- Rehabilitation costs
- Future care needs
Why Choose Barker Booth & Eastwood?
At Barker Booth & Eastwood, we specialise in supporting injured people through every stage of their road traffic accident claim. We know that no two accidents are the same, and we take the time to understand how your injuries have affected your life.
Our experienced personal injury solicitors will handle all communication with insurers, help you to gather strong medical and accident evidence, secure early rehabilitation where needed, and fight to achieve the maximum compensation possible – either through an agreeable settlement or by representing you all the way to Court.
We act for clients across Lancashire, Greater Manchester and throughout England and Wales, offering a no win, no fee service wherever possible.
No Win No Fee Blackpool Solicitors
We operate on a no win, no fee basis (also known as a conditional fee agreement). This means that there is no financial risk in bringing your claim.
Our lawyers are honest and realistic about your chance of success. Quite simply, if we believe your case can be won, we’ll take it on and take a pre-agreed percentage of your compensation reward as a free for our time and resource.
If we don’t believe that you have a strong enough case, or you are running too close to the claim limitation period, we’ll do our best to signpost you to support resources that may be able to help.
Help With a Personal Injury Claim
If you’ve been injured in a road traffic accident, you don’t have to face the process alone. Early legal advice can make a significant difference to the success and value of your claim.
Contact Barker Booth & Eastwood today to speak with our friendly, expert team. We’re here to support cyclists, pedestrians and riders when they need it most – helping you move forward with confidence and clarity.
