Motorcycle accidents can have life-changing consequences. In this case study, we explore the journey of a client who suffered a severe leg injury in a road traffic accident, the legal steps taken, and how rehabilitation and compensation helped support his recovery.

The accident

In 2021, our client was riding his motorcycle when he was involved in a collision with a car. The impact caused a compound fracture of his right tibia and fibula, with significant bone loss. Multiple surgeries were required, including a Taylor spatial frame to reconstruct the leg and later a locking tibial nail. Complications included delayed bone healing, persistent pain, and ongoing rehabilitation needs.

Before the accident, our client was highly active, enjoying motorcycling, cycling, and other sports. The accident brought significant changes including:

• Persistent pain and mobility limitations.
• Restrictions on physical hobbies and social activities.
• Impact on work travel and career opportunities.
• Psychological challenges, including anxiety about recovery and long-term function.

Early legal action and support

From the outset, our personal injury solicitors acted swiftly to gather key evidence, the client having already obtained CCTV footage of the accident, and liaised with the car driver’s insurers to ensure early rehabilitation support despite the fact that liability for the accident was not accepted by the insurers.

Expert reports were obtained from specialists in:

• Orthopaedics
• Psychiatry
• Orthotics
• Occupational therapy and care
• Employment and accommodation

These reports were vital in assessing both the immediate and long-term impact of the injuries.

Settlement and recovery

Through careful case management and negotiation, the claim was settled for £600,000 on a full liability basis, avoiding the need for a trial. Interim payments were secured to support ongoing rehabilitation, ensuring the client could access the care and support he needed, including a work place assessment.

Recovery from such a serious injury is a long-term process. Our client engaged fully with his rehabilitation programme, including:

• Physiotherapy: improving mobility, balance, and strength.
• Orthotics: customised insoles, shoe raises, and ankle braces to manage leg length discrepancy.
• Psychological support: professional counselling to manage anxiety and adjustment to new limitations.

Progress included increased distance walking, improved stair navigation, and measurable gains in muscle strength. Pain remains a challenge, but is significantly reduced and managed with minimal medication.

Rebuilding a life post injury

Experts expect that our client will have ongoing care and mobility needs, particularly as he grows older. Recommendations include:

·       Single-storey accommodation in later life

·       Partial wheelchair use or mobility scooter for longer distances

·       Assistance with physically demanding household tasks

Despite these challenges, our client has adapted his lifestyle, taken up low-impact sports, and continues to work full-time with reasonable adjustments.

Ian Latimer who acted for the client said: ‘It was an horrific accident that could easily have been fatal, and despite his serious injuries our client was stoical and showed enormous resilience in continuing to progress his career. As with all clients we advised him to consider setting up a Personal Injury Trust, which he did, so that his damages would be ring-fenced and not taken into account should he ever need to claim means tested benefits. ‘ 

This case demonstrates the profound impact a serious motorcycle accident can have on an individual’s life. With early legal intervention, expert evidence, and structured rehabilitation, our team was able to secure substantial compensation and ongoing support.

If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident that wasn’t your fault, call and speak to our team. Let us help you on the road to recovery  - Call us on 0800 1380 458 or email help@switalskis.com