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HomeMedia CentreVulnerable Road User Accident Claims
Vulnerable Road User Accident Claims

Vulnerable Road User Accident Claims

Who’s Covered, Common Injuries & How to Claim Compensation

Vulnerable road user accident claims are designed to protect those most at risk on our roads. So, if you’ve been injured as a pedestrian, cyclist, motorcyclist, or horse rider in a road accident, you may be you may be entitled to compensation.

These road users are prioritised under Highway Code changes made in 2022, which place greater responsibility on drivers of larger vehicles. Essentially, a hierarchy of road users was introduced with the aim to reduce road accidents and improve road safety for those most at risk.

Jefferies Claims works with lawyers who are highly experienced in vulnerable road user claims and can advise whether you have a potential claim with a free, initial consultation. They also offer No Win No Fee agreements.

 

Who Are Vulnerable Road Users

Vulnerable road users are individuals who lack the physical protection offered by vehicles and are therefore more likely to suffer serious injuries in a collision. According to the UK Highway Code and Department for Transport, this group includes:

  • Pedestrians: Especially children, the elderly, and those with disabilities.
  • Cyclists: Including e-bike and cargo bike users.
  • Motorcyclists and moped riders: Often overlooked in traffic and highly exposed.
  • Horse riders: Frequently found on rural roads with limited visibility.
  • Mobility scooter users: Increasingly common and often navigating busy pavements and crossings.

Common Types of Injuries in Vulnerable Road User Accidents

Because vulnerable road users have little to no physical protection, accidents can result in serious injuries. Some of the most common include:

  • Head and brain injuries: Concussions, skull fractures, and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are frequent in pedestrian and cyclist collisions.
  • Spinal injuries: Damage to the spinal cord can lead to partial or full paralysis.
  • Fractures and broken bones: Arms, legs, ribs, and pelvis are particularly susceptible.
  • Soft tissue injuries: Whiplash, sprains, and torn ligaments are common in falls or impacts.
  • Facial injuries: Cuts, bruises, and dental trauma often occur when helmets or protective gear are absent.
  • Psychological trauma: PTSD, anxiety, and depression can follow serious accidents.

These injuries can lead to rehabilitation, loss of earnings, and significant lifestyle changes.

When Can You Make a Personal Injury Claim?

You may be eligible to make a personal injury claim if:

  • The accident occurred within the last three years.
  • You were injured due to someone else’s negligence- typically a driver who failed to follow road safety laws.
  • You have medical evidence of your injuries.

Claims can be made whether the incident occurred on a busy city street, rural road, or even a car park. If you’re unsure whether your case qualifies, a personal injury solicitor can assess your situation during a free consultation.

How to Make a Vulnerable Road User Accident Claim

Making a claim involves several key steps. Here’s how to navigate the process:

  1. Seek Medical Attention

Your health comes first. Visit A&E or your GP immediately after the accident. Medical records will serve as crucial evidence in your claim.

  1. Report the Accident

Notify the police if the incident involved a motor vehicle. For cyclists and pedestrians, reporting to local authorities or your insurer may also be necessary.

  1. Gather Evidence

Collect as much evidence as possible, including:

  • Photos of the scene and injuries
  • Witness statements
  • CCTV or dashcam footage
  • Police reports
  • Medical records
  1. Contact a Personal Injury Solicitor

We partner with a panel of solicitors who can seek maximum compensation for you and who offer no win, no fee services, meaning you won’t pay unless your claim is successful.

  1. File Your Claim

Your solicitor will submit the claim to the responsible party’s insurer. They’ll negotiate compensation based on:

  • Severity of injuries
  • Medical expenses
  • Loss of earnings
  • Pain and suffering
  • Future care needs
  1. Receive Compensation

If successful, you’ll receive a settlement. Most claims are resolved out of court, but complex cases may require litigation.

Real-Life Examples of Vulnerable Road User Claims

Here are a few anonymised case studies to illustrate how claims work:

  • Cyclist hit by van: Suffered a broken collarbone and concussion. Awarded £18,000 for medical costs and lost income.
  • Pedestrian struck at zebra crossing: Sustained spinal injuries. Received £65,000 for rehabilitation and home adaptations.
  • Motorcyclist sideswiped by car: Leg fracture and PTSD. Settled for £25,000 with ongoing therapy covered.

These examples show how compensation can support recovery and restore quality of life.

Highway Code Changes: What You Need to Know

In 2022, the UK Highway Code introduced a hierarchy of road users, placing the greatest responsibility on those who can cause the most harm. This means:

  • Drivers must give way to pedestrians at junctions.
  • Cyclists can ride in the centre of lanes for visibility.
  • Motorists must pass horse riders and cyclists at a safe distance (1.5m minimum).

These changes aim to reduce accidents and improve safety for vulnerable road users.

Key Takeaways

  • Vulnerable road users include pedestrians, cyclists, motorcyclists, horse riders, and mobility scooter users.
  • Common injuries range from fractures and head trauma to psychological damage.
  • You can claim if the accident happened within three years and was caused by negligence.
  • A no win, no fee solicitor can help you file and win your claim.
  • Recent Highway Code changes prioritise vulnerable road user safety.

Need Help With Your Claim?

If you or a loved one has been injured as a vulnerable road user, don’t wait. Contact a specialist personal injury solicitor today for a free consultation. They’ll guide you through the process, help you gather evidence, and fight for the compensation you deserve.

📞To discuss your potential claim in confidence, contact Jefferies Claims on 0333 358 3034. Alternatively, complete our online contact form to arrange an initial, no-obligation consultation with one of our friendly team.

This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult a qualified solicitor to understand your specific circumstances.

 

Jefferies Claims is a claims management company. Jefferies Claims Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority FRN:999104.

Jefferies Claims is a limited company registered in England and Wales under registered number company number 14178076. Registered office Suite 2, Part 5th Floor, Charter House, Woodlands Road, WA14 1HF.

We charge our solicitors for the marketing and operational services we provide and these costs are not passed on to our customers. We receive a fee for any introduction made to a law firm.

Where No Win No Fee service is offered typically customers pay 25% of the amount recovered to our solicitors, although this will be subject to your individual circumstances. If your claim is successful, you will be charged a fee of 25% including VAT. There may be a charge if you cancel your claim outside the 14-day cooling off period.

Please note that calls made to and from Jefferies Claims may be recorded for training and monitoring purposes.

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