Around 5,000 children are killed or seriously injured on Britain's roads every year (AA). One third of all cycling casualties, and a quarter of cycling fatalities, are children.

The figures have declined in recent years, thanks in large part to the work of safety campaign groups suchas Brake, Rospa, and APIL, and resulting government policy.

In 2006 the Government announced a new cycling proficiency test for children, to be trialled by 3,000 kids before national roll out.

Also in 2006 a new law came into force requiring children under the age of 12, and being less than 4 foot 5 inches tall, to use correct child restraints whilst travelling in a vehicle. The Government estimated this would prevent 2,000 deaths and injuries a year.

The law recognises that children can be expected to be less careful than adults, and claims involving children are often successful even where it may appear that the child was at fault. The claim will be brought on the child's behalf by a parent or guardian.

A personal injury claim can be brought by a child any time up to 3 years from their 18th birthday, but in practice a lawyer should consulted as soon after the accident as possible, so that evidence can be obtained and preserved.

If your child has been involved in a road accident:

• Take down the details of the other party at the scene of the road accident, including name, address, telephone and insurance details and vehicle registration number.
• Report the accident to the police immediately. If for any reason this is not possible report the accident in person to a police station as soon as you can (and get a reference number)
• Take details of any other party and any witnesses.
• Contact your own insurers, if relevant.
• Contact Osbornes Personal Injury Lawyers as soon as possible for free initial advice.

Where do I start?

Contact Wendy Wright on 020 7681 8671 or by e-mail to wendywright@osbornes.net. Or Stuart Kightley on 020 7681 8672 or by e-mail to stuartkightley@osbornes.net

We will then discuss the case with you over the phone and if you have a claim we will arrange a free initial interview either here or at your home.

• Whiplash injury claims
• Fatal accident claims
• Personal injury claims for road traffic accidents
• Cycling accident and personal injury claims
• Motorbike accident injury claims
• Rear end shunt injury claims