7-figure Settlement in Fatal Cycling Accident Claim involving Uninsured Driver

Ben Posford

Devastating loss after a fatal road traffic collision

Losing a loved one in a sudden road traffic accident is overwhelming. Alongside grief, families are often left facing financial uncertainty and complex legal questions.

Ben Posford and the catastrophic injury team at Osbornes Law were instructed by the widow of a cyclist who tragically died after being struck by a speeding driver who later failed drug and alcohol tests.

This case study explains how we secured a seven figure settlement, despite the driver being uninsured and allegations of contributory negligence.

The circumstances of the fatal accident

The cyclist suffered catastrophic brain injuries when he was hit by a speeding vehicle. He died a few hours later in hospital.

He left behind a devoted wife and close family. The couple were in the early years of their marriage, making the impact of the loss even more profound.

Investigations confirmed that the driver was both uninsured and over the legal limits for drugs and alcohol.

Claim pursued through the Motor Insurers’ Bureau

Because the driver was uninsured, the claim had to be brought through the Motor Insurers’ Bureau (MIB), the organisation responsible for compensating victims of uninsured or untraced drivers.

Claims involving the MIB can be legally and procedurally complex. Our team ensured that all necessary evidence was gathered promptly and that the widow’s claim was progressed without unnecessary delay.

Court proceedings were issued against both the driver and the MIB to protect our client’s position.

Allegations of contributory negligence

The Defendant argued that damages should be reduced by 25%, alleging that the cyclist was not wearing a helmet at the time of the collision.

Our legal team robustly challenged this position. Through careful negotiation and strategic preparation for trial, we successfully reduced the proposed deduction before the case reached a final hearing.

This significantly improved the level of compensation available to the widow and the deceased’s family.

Securing full financial compensation

To ensure the settlement properly reflected the financial impact of the death, we obtained detailed expert evidence.

• Forensic accounting evidence to calculate likely lifetime earnings
• Pension loss calculations
• A claim for loss of services provided to family members

The deceased regularly supported his mother with gardening and DIY, and this contribution was properly valued within the claim.

A global seven figure settlement was achieved. This provides long-term financial security for both his widow and his mother following such a tragic loss.

Specialist fatal accident expertise

Osbornes Law’s fatal injury team has more APIL accredited Advanced Fatal Accident Specialists than any other firm in London.

We act in the full range of fatal accident claims, including:

• Fatal road traffic collisions involving uninsured or dangerous drivers
• Cycling and pedestrian fatalities
• High-value clinical negligence deaths involving inquest proceedings
• Complex dependency and financial loss claims

Supporting families after fatal accidents

No amount of compensation can undo the loss of a loved one. However, securing financial stability can remove significant pressure at an already devastating time.

If you have lost a family member in a fatal accident, our specialist solicitors are here to help you understand your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.

If you have suffered an injury due to a bike accident, you may be able to claim compensation. Call our specialist bicycle accident lawyers for a consultation on 020 7485 8811.