The victory of Bradley Wiggins (now Sir Bradley) in the Tour de France and the success of British cyclists at the London Olympic and Paralympic Games have inspired many people to take up cycling for fun. However, the fact that Sir Bradley and Shane Sutton, the British Cycling head coach, were recently involved in collisions with cars, both on the same day, is a reminder of the dangers attached to the sport.
In another case, a cyclist who was knocked off his bicycle at a roundabout has won almost £5,000 in compensation.
Steven Rhodes, 46, was training to take part in the ‘Etape du Tour’, the public section of the Tour de France. Mr Rhodes, who was wearing a bright yellow top, was struck by a vehicle as he navigated the roundabout in Chorley, not far from where Sir Bradley had his accident. Mr Rhodes was thrown over the bonnet and roof of the car.
Mr Rhodes was unable to participate in the Etape du Tour as a result of his injuries and required a course of physiotherapy to help him recover. His bicycle was also damaged in the collision.
After making a claim for compensation, Mr Rhodes received £4,828.
