World Bicycle Day 2026: What Cyclists Need to Know About Safety and Accident Claims

What is World Bicycle Day?

It is an awareness day celebrated on 3rd June. It is a global celebration of the bicycle which is a great form of exercise, a mode of transport and is environmentally friendly. Riding a bicycle helps to reduce pollution and can improve health.

Celebrating World Bicycle Day

Adults and children alike can get involved by taking a bike ride on their own or with friends and family. You can travel to school by bike or work. Schools regularly spread awareness of bike safety and the use of bike lanes.

Do I need to wear a helmet?

It is surprising to hear that it is not a legal requirement to wear a cycle in the UK.

However the Government Highway Code strongly recommends that you wear a cycle helmet that conforms to regulations and is the correct size and securely fastened.

Involved in an accident- contributory negligence

At Hodge Jones and Allen we represent cyclists that have been involved in road traffic accidents. Whilst liability may not be an issue, often where a client has not worn a helmet and this has resulted in a head injury, insurance companies will raise arguments of contributory negligence that the injury could have been avoided or may not have been as significant had a helmet been worn.

In some cases where the helmet could have reduced the severity of the injury, a reduction of up to 15% may be made. If the helmet could have prevented the injury altogether then a reduction of 25% could be made.

Cyclists are considered to be vulnerable road users and on World Bicycle Day it is important to raise the importance of wearing a helmet. Cycle helmets are made from polystyrene and are designed to protect the head if you fall to the ground.

They will need to comply with the European standard that stipulates that they must withstand a test simulating the head striking a flat surface at 12mph and a kerb at an impact of 10mph. It is possible that a helmet could make a difference but the helmet might not offer as much protection if you are struck by a car travelling at 30mph.

Cycle accidents are common and can take place on roads, particularly near T junctions and roundabouts.

Types of cycle accidents

Collision with car/van/bus

Often cyclists are involved with car users. If you are involved in an accident it is important if you are able to do so, exchange details with the car driver. Medical assistance may be called for and an ambulance may attend the scene of the accident. If CCTV footage or dash cam footage is available and the police are called out it may be helpful to establish if any footage has captured the accident to consider who was at fault.

Potholes

Sometimes cyclists may be injured due to defects on the roads or pavements. A claim may be made against the council potentially. It is important to take photographs of the defect using an object such as a coin to establish the depth of the defect. Take full details of the location of the accident and surrounding area and report it to the council.

Time Limits

As a cyclist if you are involved in an accident that was not your fault and you wish to make a claim then you have 3 years from the date of the accident in which to make a claim.

On World Bicycle Day make sure to enjoy the benefits of cycling but stay safe.

If you have been injured in a cycling accident that was not your fault, our experienced Personal Injury team can advise you on your legal options and help you pursue the compensation you deserve. We have extensive experience representing cyclists injured in collisions with vehicles, as well as accidents caused by unsafe road conditions. Contact our Personal Injury solicitors today on 0330 822 3451 or fill in our online enquiry form and a member of the team will be in touch.