Cyclist Receives £6,000 Damages for Pothole Accident

A cyclist from Huddersfield has won £6,000 in compensation after being thrown from his bicycle when it hit a pothole. The fall left Jason Bottomley, from Holmfirth, with numerous injuries. Kirklees Council, whose duty it was to inspect and maintain the road, eventually accepted liability for the accident.

 

The accident occurred as Mr Bottomley, 25, was concentrating on an approaching bend and failed to see the deep pothole. His front wheel hit the uneven surface and his bicycle frame broke in half, causing him to be thrown to the ground.

 

Not only did Mr Bottomley sustain severe cuts and bruises but he was also knocked unconscious and suffered a partially severed ear. He underwent reconstructive surgery to reattach the ear and was off work for two weeks. The accident has left him with permanent scarring to his knees, shoulder, neck and ear.

 

At first, Kirklees Council would not admit liability for the accident, but later accepted responsibility for the failure to maintain the road. A small reduction in the amount of compensation was made for contributory negligence.

 

If you are injured in a public place because the property owner has failed to maintain it in a safe condition, you may be entitled to compensation. Contact us for advice.