Cyclists could make a claim for faulty bicycles

We all enjoy making the most of the good weather and what better way to get a breath of fresh air than by venturing outside on a bicycle. With so many people taking up cycling, not only as a hobby but as a form of transport, it is inevitable that a number of accidents will occur.

Many of these accidents will be caused by another road user but from time to time faulty bicycles can lead to serious injuries for the rider, who could then be eligible to make a claim.

What faults should you look out for?

Although it would be difficult to completely eliminate the risk of an accident, cyclists could carry out the following checks to reduce the risk of a serious accident occurring.

Tyres 

On purchasing a bicycle, cyclists should ensure that their tyres have at least 3mm of tread and are free from any cracks or splits. A faulty tyre could force a rider to lose control of the bike and cause them to suffer a serious personal injury.

Wheels

A product liability claim could also be made if a cyclist has been injured by means of a faulty wheel. Wheels should be central to the fork and if give exceeds 3mm then cyclists should contact the manufacturer as soon as possible.

Rims should be checked for defects, such as dents, and spokes should be checked to make sure that they are neither loose nor missing.

Handlebars

To avoid making product liability claims for faulty handlebars, cyclists should turn the bars slowly and check that the stem is aligned with the wheel fork.

Saddle

Bicycle riders should take a hold of the saddle and try to move it, if it is able to move either up and down or side to side, the rider must contact the manufactures to avoid having to make a future product liability claim for injury compensation.

Lights

Lights should be checked to make sure that they are fitted correctly. If lights are loose, especially ones close to the front forks, they could potentially fall into a wheel and cause a serious bicycle accident.

Brakes

Brakes can be tested easily and cyclists should ensure that their bicycle cables have not frayed. Brakes should be attached securely to the handle bars and the brake unit should be attached either to the bike's frame or fork.

Chain

The chain should be lubricated correctly and shouldn't exceed 25mm play.

If you as a cyclist have noticed any faults with your bike, contact the manufactures as soon as possible or you could find yourself being forced to make a product liability compensation claim for a serious bicycle accident.

Can you make a claim?

Unfortunately, faulty goods can occasionally make their way onto the shop floor.

If you have been injured in an accident caused by a faulty bicycle, you may be able to make a claim on a no win, no fee basis.