The humble bicycle is set to be off Christmas lists this year as a new poll of 2,000 parents by Injury Lawyers 4u reveals nearly half admit they’ve been put off buying their child a bike because of the risks of road traffic accidents.

Yet, it seems with good reason as over a quarter (27%) confess their child has already been involved in a cycling accident or near miss with a vehicle.

Worryingly, a concerning 7% of parents said the accident was so serious their child required medical attention, with a further 9% reporting their child has been left shaken by a ‘close call’ with a car, even if no contact was made.

Once a staple under the tree on Christmas morning, over two thirds (68%) now believe fewer children are cycling compared to when they were young, blaming dangerous roads, aggressive drivers and a lack of safe infrastructure as the cause.

Andrew Twambley, founder and specialist personal injury lawyer at Injury Lawyers 4u said: “Cycling should be a joyful part of childhood, but these figures show too many parents are fearful – and sadly those fears are not unfounded.

“With approximately 27% of children experiencing accidents or near misses, it’s understandable there’s hesitance to request a bike under the tree this year. But this isn’t just about Christmas; it reflects wider worries among parents and carers who want to keep the kids they love safe on UK roads.”

Mr Twambley added: “As we head into the festive season, it’s vital that drivers, councils and communities do more to make cycling safer for children.

“And for those families already affected, Injury Lawyers 4u can help. From assessing whether you have a valid claim to gathering evidence and negotiating fair compensation, our specialist solicitors handle the complex legal work so parents and children can focus on recovery.”