Father-Of-Four In Coma For 17 Days After Being Hit By Wing Mirror

A Sheffield man, who had part of his skull removed after he was hit by a bus, has spoken for the first time about his battle to overcome his life-threatening injuries.

Garon White, 26, was in a coma for 17 days after he was knocked down by a bus on the A61 Penistone Road in Hillsborough, Sheffield. 

The driver failed to stop at the scene. 

Following the incident Garon instructed expert serious injury lawyers at Irwin Mitchell to help investigate the collision and help him access the specialist rehabilitation he requires. 

Garon has now spoken of his determination to overcome his injuries the best he can and warn of the consequences of drivers breaking the law.

It comes after the driver involved in the crash was sentenced at Sheffield Crown Court. He had previously pleaded guilty to causing serious injury by dangerous driving and failing to stop at the scene of an accident.

Expert Opinion

“Garon suffered devastating injuries in the collision which have had a profound effect on his life and that of his family.

“His case vividly highlights the dangers that vulnerable road users such as pedestrians can face by motorists not paying attention.

“While many people with a brain injury may no longer show any physical signs after their initial recovery the effects can last for many years. Garon has had made tremendous progress in his recovery but still faces many challenges.

“We are pleased that the sentencing will now allow Garon to focus on the future. We are determined to ensure that he can access all of the support that he is now likely to require to overcome his injuries the best he can.” David Withers - Partner, ATE Product Manager and BTE Relationship Partner

Garon, of Southey Green, has four children with partner Demi, 24.

He had just left a takeaway restaurant and was crossing Penistone Road when he was struck in the face by a passing bus’s wing mirror on 24 November, 2018.

The severity of Garon’s injuries meant that police initially handled the collision as a potentially fatal incident. He was taken to Northern General Hospital and then Royal Hallamshire. He underwent surgery to remove part of his skull and was in a coma for 17 days. 

While his family were warned that he may not survive, Garon started to recover. He was discharged from hospital on Christmas Eve 2018. 

Following his discharge, Garon underwent surgery. He is due to undergo further surgery to insert more titanium plates into his skull. In the meantime he is required to wear protective headgear.

Garon said: “The extent of my injuries mean that I cannot recall what happened, but I understand we had crossed the traffic lane which runs away from the city and were waiting to cross the inbound lane when the incident happened.

“Apparently I was knocked unconscious. The only thing I remember is waking up in hospital. It was hugely distressing and confusing, while it was also a huge shock when I was told what had gone on.

“I could only imagine how upset and anxious that Demi and the rest of the family were at that time.

“From what I was told about the crash, being allowed home from hospital was the best Christmas present I could have ever wished for. However, my life has been completely turned upside down.

“My brain injury means I don’t know what the future holds for me but I am trying to remain positive and look to the future rather than the past. 

“The sentencing is a major milestone in being able to do that. I now want to focus on my recovery and spending time with my family.

“I just hope that by speaking out drivers are aware of the damage they can cause and take care when driving.” 

The driver, Antony Naylor, 51, of Norwood, Sheffield, admitted the charges when he appeared in court in February. 

He was sentenced to 12 months in prison suspended for 18 months and disqualified from driving for two years when he appeared at Sheffield Crown Court on 19 June. Naylor will have to take an extended retest.

Find out more about Irwin Mitchell's expertise in helping people following road crashes at our serious injury section. Alternatively to speak to an expert contact us or call 0370 1500 100.