If you have ever suffered a serious injury following a road accident, then I suspect one of your key priorities was getting a speedy recovery so you can get back on your bike.
It’s a common attitude held by cyclists and says a lot about the values cyclists hold dear.
Accident compensation tends to be a secondary issue to getting back to bike riding and this attitude is one of the many ways you can increase your chances of a strong recovery.
If you have recently been in a cycling accident, increase your chances of a fast and successful rehabilitation by following these suggestions:
- Start the rehabilitation process as soon as possible following the accident. The sooner you start re-activating your muscles, the less muscle you will lose initially and the harder/slower rehab may be. Depending on the injury, you may need to consult a trained physiotherapist to ensure the best advice and techniques.
- Maintain a positive outlook. The mind really is a powerful thing and a positive attitude will shine through in your recovery. Similarly, a negative attitude can hinder progress and mean you ‘don’t even bother’ with physiotherapy at all… Something you will probably come to regret in the long-run!
- Stay determined and motivated. The more determined you are to get better, the more engaged you will be with your rehabilitation. In my 25 years of professional experience dealing with serious cycle injuries, it is this can-do attitude that counts and contributes to a favourable recovery.
- Heal your body from the inside out. Nutrition is so important in day-to-day life and is even more important when your body is working overtime to recover from an injury. Focus on foods high in vitamin C and omega 3 fatty acids to promote healing, Vitamin A-rich foods to fight injection and foods that help reduce swelling and inflammation (if appropriate).
- Turn your attention to fixing or replacing your bike. This can take some time, especially if you have a custom-built bike, so it is wise to look into this without delay. The faster you’re able to get back in the saddle, the more your ‘muscle memory’ will kick in. If you are not insured and making a claim on a driver’s insurance, ensure your solicitor has the expertise and back-up of Cytech-qualified engineers to do a damage report. This will mean the bike can be replaced or repaired through specialist contacts.
It goes without saying that any law firm chosen to deal with a claim should initially prioritise rehabilitation above all else. Too many solicitors do not have the specialist contacts and resources required for these very ‘particular’ claims, so it’s important to choose carefully.
If you are concerned about getting back on the bike again, face those demons head-on and remember that the benefits of cycling outweigh the risks. Be positive, focused and take good medical, legal and engineering advice. And, like me, those bad days will be behind you quicker than Cav’s last 50 metres on the final sprint!
To discuss a cycling accident and a potential claim, contact our ‘sister company’ Cycle Accident Claims Management on 0800 093 6313.
Author: Jan Canter, Solicitor, Cycle Accident Claims.
