The pitfalls of cycling without insurance – for both cyclists and their accident victims

Many cyclists still do not have third-party insurance, and, unlike motorists, it remains non-compulsory in the UK. This continues to raise concern, particularly in light of recent legal reforms that have increased accountability for cyclists involved in serious accidents and the number of cyclists using public highways.

A common criticism is that cyclists do not have registration plates, making them harder to identify in the event of a collision. This can pose a risk of hit-and-run incidents, where a cyclist causes an accident and leaves the scene. Even with CCTV, identifying a cyclist is far more difficult than tracing a vehicle via its registration number.

From the victim’s perspective, if they are injured in an accident with a cyclist who is uninsured, there may be no realistic route to compensation – even if they suffer serious injuries. Even if the cyclist stops, they may not be worth suing if they have limited assets or income. The Motor Insurers’ Bureau (MIB) does not cover claims involving uninsured or untraced cyclists, leaving injured pedestrians or other road users without recourse.

For cyclists who cause accidents, whether involving pedestrians, other cyclists, or vehicles, the consequences can be personally and financially severe. They may be liable for compensation, which can be substantial in serious injury cases, and also responsible for the injured party’s legal costs. Enforcement options include charging orders against property, orders for sale, or deductions from wages over time

New legal developments in 2025

In response to growing public concern, the UK government is planning to introduce new criminal offences in 2025 for cyclists who cause serious harm:

• Causing death by dangerous cycling – punishable by up to life imprisonment.
• Causing serious injury by dangerous cycling – up to five years’ imprisonment.
• Causing death or serious injury by careless or inconsiderate cycling – also now recognised as criminal offences.

These changes would bring cycling laws more in line with those governing motor vehicles and reflect a broader push for greater responsibility and accountability on the roads.  However, these reforms do not address the issue of insurance.

Why insurance matters

Given these risks, it makes clear sense for cyclists to take out third-party liability insurance. It offers protection not only for others but also for the cyclist themselves, should they be involved in a claim. Many cycling organisations offer affordable insurance as part of membership.

At Penningtons Manches Cooper, we have acted for a number of individuals involved in cycling accidents, many involving serious injuries and are familiar with the issues that arise and the options available . Our team provides expert legal support tailored to the complexities of these increasingly high-profile cases.