Cycling alongside heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) and lorries can be intimidating — and for good reason. These massive vehicles have large blind spots, long stopping distances, and often operate in busy urban areas where cyclists are most vulnerable. When an accident occurs, the consequences are often severe. That’s why having an experienced bicycle accident lawyer is essential if you’re pursuing bicycle accident compensation claims.
At Bicycle Accident Claims, we specialise in handling bicycle accident claims involving HGVs. Our legal team has helped riders secure justice and financial recovery after devastating collisions, guiding them through complex bicycle accident injury claims. We understand that victims need not only financial support but also the reassurance that their case is in expert hands, and we work hard to secure the personal injury compensation they deserve.
Why HGV Accidents Are So Serious for Cyclists
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Blind Spots
HGVs have significant blind spots, especially on the passenger side and directly in front and behind the vehicle. Cyclists can easily disappear from view, increasing the risk of collisions. -
Turning Risks
Left turns are particularly dangerous. An HGV may swing wide or fail to see a cyclist on its inside, trapping them between the lorry and the kerb. -
Vehicle Size and Weight
The sheer mass of an HGV means that even a low-speed collision can cause life-changing injuries. -
Urban Traffic Conditions
Many HGV accidents happen at junctions, roundabouts, and traffic lights — high-interaction points where cyclists and lorries cross paths.
Common Injuries in HGV-Cyclist Collisions
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Head and brain injuries
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Multiple fractures
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Crush injuries to limbs
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Spinal injuries
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Severe psychological trauma
These injuries often require long-term medical care, rehabilitation, and significant lifestyle adjustments.
Who’s Responsible in an HGV Accident?
Liability can rest with:
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The HGV driver
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The transport company
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A third party, such as another road user who caused the incident
At Bicycle Accident Claims, we investigate every angle, gathering evidence from CCTV, dashcams, GPS tracking, and witness statements to build the strongest possible case.
Steps to Take After an HGV Accident
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Seek immediate medical attention — even if injuries seem minor at first.
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Call the police — serious incidents must be reported.
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Collect evidence — photographs, vehicle details, and witness information.
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Avoid dealing directly with insurers — let your bicycle injury lawyer handle communication.
How Bicycle Accident Claims Can Help
We provide:
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Expert legal representation tailored to HGV accident cases
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Full evidence collection and accident reconstruction
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Negotiation with transport company insurers for maximum payout
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No Win, No Fee service to remove financial risk
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Clear updates so you’re never left wondering about your case’s progress
Case Study Example
A London cyclist was struck by an HGV turning left at a busy junction. The driver claimed they did not see the cyclist, but Bicycle Accident Claims obtained traffic camera footage proving our client was in a mandatory cycle lane. The result was a substantial settlement covering surgery costs, six months’ lost earnings, and specialist rehabilitation therapy.
Preventing HGV-Cyclist Accidents
Prevention is key, and it involves both infrastructure and behaviour:
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More segregated cycle lanes in high-HGV traffic areas
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Improved vehicle technology, such as blind spot cameras and sensors
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Greater training for HGV drivers on cyclist safety
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Public campaigns to raise awareness of safe passing distances
Final Thoughts
HGV and lorry collisions are among the most serious cycling accidents in the UK. If you’ve been injured in one of these incidents, you deserve expert support. Bicycle Accident Claims will fight tirelessly to ensure you receive the justice and personal injury compensation you’re entitled to, giving you the best possible chance at a full recovery.
