A cyclist has initiated legal action against Enfield Council in London after suffering multiple fractures in a collision with an unmarked bike lane barrier. Greg Simmons, 36, alleges that the plastic divider, lacking a pole or reflectors, was a dangerous hazard that caused him to be catapulted from his bike in February of last year.
Simmons was riding in a cycle lane in Edmonton, north London, and was attempting to overtake a bus when he hit the divider. He sustained broken elbows and a fractured jaw in the incident. According to his legal team, the divider was not equipped with poles, which are typically intended to alert cyclists to such road safety features. Simmons stated he is fortunate that no other traffic was present, as he believes the accident could have been fatal.
"The divider is so dangerous without a wand. It’s the same colour as the road and has no reflectors, making it almost impossible to spot when travelling at speed," Simmons said. He added that safety measures are inconsistent and need to be improved to prevent similar accidents.
Megan Lambert, a personal injury lawyer representing Simmons, noted that her client suffered serious injuries through no fault of his own due to a council-installed safety measure. She indicated that the council has denied liability, and urged them to reconsider their position.
In response to the lawsuit, an Enfield Council spokesperson stated that they are unable to comment on the matter while legal action is pending.
Separately, Richard Lander, a 63-year-old cyclist, is also pursuing legal action against Croydon Council after breaking his wrist in a similar incident on November 3, 2023. Lander reportedly did not see a black road divider on Brighton Road while attempting to overtake a bus and was thrown over his handlebars. Doctors have since fitted a metal plate in his arm, but Lander reports ongoing pain and uncertainty about his ability to cycle again. He has formally complained to Croydon Council about the road safety measures and has engaged lawyers to highlight the issue and advocate for changes.