Forum Rider Down and/or notification of minor incidents

Monday morning (2nd Sept) I cycled to work in the anticipation of taking part in the LCC Space for Cycling protest ride later that day. It was the first time cycling the 20 mile route since moving house. I used to cycle 10 miles each way so was comfortable with the distance.

Around 7 miles in at approx 7.30am going at 18mph, on the A21 Bromley Road close to the Catford Junction, I was hit by a van pulling out of Canadian Avenue. He was crossing my lane to go southbound on the A21. There were no cars around, but 2 cyclists a few metres ahead of me, so I thought he saw me. In that few metres gap, he pulled out, I had no time to react and the front of the van hit the side of the bike, sending me flying and rolling onto the tarmac. He was extremely apologetic but I was too in shock to respond.

Amazingly I only have bruises from the bike hitting me and grazes from the fall, no sight of blood. Policeman on a motorbike was close by and took details of driver and a witness. Ambulance took me to A&E to get checked over and xray on right ankle which was clear. There is bruising above and below the ankle. Other than a few other minor bruises, I feel fine.

The bike?

• Front wheel is not running true, back wheel (not even 2 weeks old) running true but not in line with the bike.
  
• Left crank arm bent inwards it cant rotate fully as it hits the chain stay. This is what the van hit.
  
  
• Top tube is cracked
  
  
• Seat is moved out of line and ripped at the edge.
  
• Crack in helmet
  
  

I now slightly dread the admin work with claiming on his insurance. Just what I needed a few days before my birthday.