In September 2018, Ian was out with his cycling club in Oxfordshire when he was involved in a serious collision.

Ian and other club members were riding 2 abreast in a ‘chain gang' formation (where the riders rotate, taking turns to lead the group and then dropping back).

During the ride, Ian needed to stop for a break. He signalled and pulled out from the group of cyclists. He moved over to the verge on the opposite side of the road. At the same time, a driver tried to overtake the group of cyclists and crashed into the rear wheel of Ian's bike. Ian was thrown forwards through the air and landed on the road.

Following the collision, Ian was taken to hospital with serious injuries including a brain injury, spinal injury, facial fractures, a fractured leg and internal injuries.

Ian has always been a keen cyclist and he pushed himself to get back on his bike as soon as he could after the collision. Despite the severity of his injuries he made a good recovery with the support of his family.

The defendant's insurer firmly denied liability and refused to pay for Ian's rehabilitation. We completed a full investigation into the collision. We reviewed the police report, photographs and diagrams and spoke to the investigating officer.

We interviewed several members of Ian's cycling club and prepared witness statements for them. As they were riding in formation at the time, each witness had a slightly different view of the collision.

Ian's barrister advised that we had limited chances of success in Ian's claim. Despite this advice, we managed to secure a financial settlement for Ian which will help to compensate him for his injuries, losses and expenses.

Ian said:

“My case has been a real battle from the start. I can't remember what happened in the crash because of my injuries. The defendant refused to accept liability so my solicitor, David, had to do a lot of work to investigate. David never gave up and I am really pleased we managed to secure a settlement.”

Leigh Day solicitor David Preston, who represented Ian, said:

“I am delighted that we reached a settlement in Ian's claim. I know that Ian has been through a terrible ordeal since the collision. I hope the settlement will mean that Ian can put everything behind him and focus on the future.”

Originally published by Leigh Day, August 2020

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