Background: Our client, a keen triathlete and daily cyclist, was riding home through Hull city centre when he was knocked off his bicycle by an articulated lorry. The lorry, traveling in the same direction, turned left without indicating, dragging our client under the vehicle and causing extensive polytrauma and multiple fractures from head to toe.

Immediate Aftermath: Our client has no clear memory of the accident or the events for approximately six weeks following the incident. He underwent extensive rehabilitation and was discharged from the hospital five months post-accident.

Rehabilitation and Recovery: With the cooperation of the Defendant, we secured funding for his continued rehabilitation. This support, combined with our client’s determination, enabled him to make a miraculous partial return to work within six months of the accident. Remarkably, he returned to cycling and running within a year.

Legal Proceedings: The Defendant attempted to argue contributory negligence, but this had little merit. We successfully negotiated a pragmatic settlement before court proceedings were issued.

Importance of Rehabilitation: “This case highlights the importance of rehabilitation funded under the Rehabilitation Code, considering that liability had not been agreed by the defendant at this point,” commented Simon Burgess. “In cases where liability may be in issue, we can request that the Defendant fund rehabilitation outside the litigation process. This benefits both the client and the defendant by helping the client get back on their feet quicker. This support is invaluable as many clients struggle to access appropriate physio, occupational therapy, and other clinical support once discharged from the hospital.”