Devon & Cornwall Police Record 264 Cyclist Injuries in 2024/25

Devon & Cornwall Police have recorded more than 250 cyclist casualties over the past year, with new figures revealing where riders are most at risk and how severe those injuries have been.

Data obtained by Advice.co.uk shows that cyclist injuries remain a serious concern across the force area.

Over 260 Cyclist Injuries Recorded

In the 2024/25 period, Devon & Cornwall Police recorded 264 cyclist injuries on the roads. These were graded by police as:

• 3 fatalities

• 63 serious injuries

• 198 slight injuries

Cyclists are considered one of the most vulnerable groups on the road, and despite ongoing safety efforts, the number of people injured while cycling remains high.

Where Accidents Are Happening Most

Figures covering the past three years show clear hotspots for cyclist road accidents within the Devon & Cornwall Police area.

The highest number of accidents occurred in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, with 74 recorded incidents. This was followed by Exeter, where 53 cyclist accidents took place.

The data also highlights a wider pattern seen across the UK, with higher numbers of cycling accidents on urban roads. Increased traffic, buses and pedestrian activity all contribute to the risks faced by cyclists in built up areas. Rural roads tend to see fewer incidents, but those accidents are often more severe due to higher vehicle speeds.

National Picture Mirrors Local Concerns

The situation in the South West reflects a broader national trend. Department for Transport data released in 2023 showed that between 2019 and 2023 an average of two cyclists were killed and 80 seriously injured every week across Great Britain.

In 2023 alone, 87 pedal cyclists were killed, while 3,942 were seriously injured and 10,970 suffered slight injuries.

Causes and Safety Concerns

A range of factors contribute to cyclist road accidents, including driver negligence, poor road conditions and limited cycling infrastructure. Issues such as potholes, hazardous road surfaces and a lack of bike friendly layouts can all increase the risk of crashes.

Road Traffic Accident Manager for JF Law, Tracy Chick, said:
“Unfortunately, the number of cyclists involved in road accidents across the UK remains worryingly high, and we continue to see serious injuries caused by a combination of driver negligence, poor road conditions, and inadequate cycling infrastructure.

“Many of these incidents could be prevented with greater awareness between road users, but the consequences of cycling accidents can be devastating, from broken bones and head injuries to long-term psychological trauma and financial strain during recovery.”

Tracy also highlighted the importance of cyclists understanding their rights following an accident:
“As more people take up cycling across the UK, improving road safety and ensuring justice for injured cyclists must remain a national priority. It’s vital that anyone injured in a cycling accident understands their rights and seeks legal advice as soon as possible.

“If the accident was caused by someone else’s negligence, whether that’s a motorist, local authority, or another party, they may be entitled to make a compensation claim to help cover medical costs, loss of earnings, and other related damages.”

Advice.co.uk offers legal advice and claims support for cyclists involved in road accidents, including access to a 24 hour helpline and an online claim form through their website.