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In Scotland, as well as the rest of the world, both no win, no fee claim rates and accident statistics show us that the more popular cycling is in a particular area, the lower its incidence of accidents. This is perhaps best demonstrated by the Dutch, who have proved their Amsterdam cycle networks can simultaneously be extremely busy and extremely safe. And it appears that the same also goes for Edinburgh, with figures showing that in the years cycling has become more popular in the Scottish capital, 1998 to 2007, the number of serious accidents has dropped year on.
However, with 170 Edinburgh cycling accidents reported to police in 2007, it is clear that work still needs to be done. As a result, the police and council have identified a number of cycling accident blackspots.
A spokesperson from cycling group Spoke comments, "The council's map of city centre crashes/injuries involving cyclists shows the greatest concentration to be along Lothian Road, between Fountainbridge and the West End. This is an area with no cycle lanes, and with advance stop lines missing at several junctions. However, it is crucial that this doesn't stop people from cycling in the centre of Edinburgh.
"It would be very wrong to assume there is an accident waiting every time a cyclist passes one of the points highlighted on the map.
"The map shows a ten-year picture, and it is very useful for highlighting places where the road system could be improved to benefit cyclists.
"But it does not mean that central Edinburgh is unsafe, as long as cyclists ride carefully and other road users give them room."
While an Edinburgh police spokesperson offered the following view, "The number of cyclists being killed or seriously injured in the force area continues to be of concern.
"There is a growing trend towards cycling, with increasingly more people choosing to use their bike to commute to and from work, as well as for recreation.
"As the darker nights close in, it becomes ever more vital for cyclists to ensure they wear the appropriate high visibility clothing and protective equipment and make sure their bike is properly maintained, particularly in respect of lights, brakes and tyres.
"At the same time, cyclists should exercise due care and attention when on the roads, and the same rule applies to motorists."
It is worth bearing in mind that, as well as reducing the risk of injury, abiding by the law while cycling will assist a cyclist's ability to make a successful no win, no fee claim in the event he or she were to suffer injury in an accident in Scotland.
Leading Scottish personal injury lawyers
If you have been injured in an accident in Scotland that was not your fault, you may be able to claim compensation.
At YouClaim we offer much more than a no win, no fee service. In fact, our solicitors will probably be able to represent your compensation claim on a basis that is completely free to you.
This would mean that, win or lose, you would never be charged, as well as being protected from liability for any of the defendant's costs.
All lawyers on our panel are governed by the Solicitors Regulation Authority and rigorously uphold its Code of Conduct.
Whether it is to receive some obligation-free legal advice or to commence your claim today, you can call our free legal helpline, on 0800 10 757 95.
Alternatively, fill out a claim form, log into echat or request a callback.
We look forward to assisting you in the best way possible.
