A man left with serious injuries when a car ploughed into his bike as he cycled home has told of the life-changing impact of the incident and his ongoing battle to recover.
The cyclist was travelling along Spring Bank West in Hull, in a designated cycle lane, when a car drove into him, failing to stop at the scene.
The incident, on the morning of Sunday, 8 September 2019, left the 60-year-old with an array of injuries including a serious brain injury which resulted in part of his skull being removed, and broken shoulder, pelvis and ribs.
He was forced to undergo major emergency brain surgery which has left him facing lengthy and extensive rehabilitation, which has also meant he has been unable to return to his job.
Driver Jonathan Clarke, who was behind the wheel of the car which careered into the cyclist, admitted charges of causing serious injury by dangerous driving, aggravated vehicle taking and driving whilst disqualified.
Appearing at Hull Crown Court, Clarke, who has been in prison since May for another offence and has 13 previous convictions for 49 offences, was sentenced to three years and four years in prison, and a five-year driving ban starting on his release.
The victim, who lives in Hull, has told of the devastating impact of the incident, and how he is battling to get his life back on track.
“This has been the hardest time. From just cycling back from the market one Sunday morning I have been left with these terrible injuries,” he said.
“I cannot do the things I used to, I have not been able to work and support my family, it has been a terrible ordeal. I am in constant pain, even making a cup of tea causes discomfort. I used to play tennis and cycle but now I cannot.
“Every day is a battle to get a little bit better and it is a struggle. I am lucky to be alive. I spent 13 days in hospital. I am now anxious about being knocked over by a car, even when I am walking.
“My life has been changed beyond recognition by what has happened. This has devastated me and my family.”
The man is being supported by specialist Neurotrauma lawyers at law firm Sintons, who are helping him to access a bespoke package of rehabilitation and support.
Andrew McGowan, Head of Neurotrauma at Sintons, said: “Our client has shown great courage throughout his ordeal, which came about through no fault of his own – he was cycling responsibly in a designated cycle lane when this terrible incident happened, the impact of which has been life-changing for him and his family. He has been left him with a serious brain injury and faces a long and difficult road to recovery.
“As specialist and highly experienced Neurotrauma lawyers, we are supporting him to access the highest standards of rehabilitation and care, tailored exactly to his requirements, which will give him the best possible chance of recovery.”
