The trip was spectacular and I had a fantastic time. However, just as I was nearing home my chain came off, the rear wheel locked up and I fell off. Thankfully, it was at low speed and I came off pretty unscathed.
However, I’ve trashed my kit and my bike. I contacted the firm who fitted the tyres, but they’ve told me to bugger off. My point is the chain must have been loose and that’s their fault after they fitted the tyres.
I think I have a good case as I can show I haven’t fallen off for years and I am an advanced rider. What do you think?
Answer
Are you having a laugh? You need to appreciate that to win a civil claim in England and Wales you have to prove on the balance of probabilities that someone has been negligent, and because of that negligence you have suffered a loss. Good luck proving that in this scenario.
If you didn’t check your chain in the whole 1400-mile trip and now want to blame someone else for it for falling off, you’re an idiot. You have no claim and the tyre fitter will easily defend any claim you make.
My advice, take responsibility for your own actions. Or ‘inaction’ may be a better way to phrase it. Lastly, having not fallen off for years and being an advanced rider is not proof that someone else is to blame for this accident.
Andrew ‘Chef’ Prendergast
Motorcycle Monthly July 2019
