Dad Reveals Determination To Look To The Future

A motorcyclist has warned of the consequences of dangerous driving after being seriously injured in a crash which led to his left arm being amputated.

Robert Hope suffered multiple arm and leg fractures when he was hit head-on by a van which was overtaking another vehicle on a sweeping bend. 

The 42-year-old was thrown from his bike and skidded along the road for about 100 yards. The crash happened on the A596 between Aspatria and Prospect in Cumbria. 

Robert, of Brampton, instructed expert serious injury lawyers at Irwin Mitchell to help him access the specialist rehabilitation and support he requires. 

The father-of-one spent five weeks in hospital and eight months in a wheelchair and has been forced to give up his job as a mechanical engineer.

He has now joined his legal team at Irwin Mitchell in urging drivers to take care on the roads and also spoken of his determination to look to the future. 

It comes after the van driver was sentenced. They had previously pleading guilty to causing serious injury by dangerous driving.

Expert Opinion

"Sadly, we continue to see too many people whose lives have been turned upside down as a consequence of road collisions, caused by the irresponsible actions of others.

“The life-changing injuries which Robert suffered through no fault of his own have had a major impact on him.

“While he has shown great determination to make tremendous progress in his recovery, he still faces many challenges ahead.

“We are continuing to support Robert to access the specialist support he needs to maximise his recovery to make the most of life.

“However, his case also vividly highlights the need for drivers to obey the law at all times.” Adele Jepson - Solicitor

Robert, who has a 12-year-old daughter, was riding to meet friends in Workington when he was hit by a Peugeot Partner van at around 3.20pm on 4 May, 2018.

He was airlifted to the Royal Victoria Infirmary in Newcastle.

Doctors believed they would have to amputate both Robert’s left arm and leg. However, following a number of operations, surgeons managed to save his left leg. 

Robert’s left leg is around one inch shorter than his right. He faces further surgery to help repair his leg as well as surgery on his left shoulder with a view to having a prosthesis fitted. 

He now volunteers for the Great North Air Ambulance.

Robert said: “In the hours following the collision, I remember waking up in hospital and a doctor explaining that he needed to amputate my left arm and left leg. I was pleading with him not to because I needed them to work.  

“When I woke up again, I discovered that my left arm had been amputated just below the shoulder but somehow they had managed to save my leg.”

He added: “The collision has had a major impact on my life. Before I was physical fit, enjoyed work and being socially active, running and fell walking. 

“Not only was riding my motorcycle my hobby, it was my main form of transport and I would say I was a very experienced rider.  

“However, due to my injuries I will never be able to do any of that again which has been hard to take.

“The last couple of years and how life has changed has been difficult. I still live in constant pain and cannot do many of the things people take for granted but I know I’m also fortunate to be alive.

“I cannot thank enough the air ambulance and the doctors for everything they have done for me. 

“I volunteer for the Great North Air Ambulance speaking to others who have suffered amputations or life-changing injuries about my experiences to encourage them and show that support is available. It’s my way of giving something back to those who helped me.

“However, it’s vital that other motorists are aware of the devastation they can cause by acting dangerously on the roads,

“I just hope that my story acts as a warning about the need to take care at all times.

“My attitude is that I will not let my disabilities beat me. I know I face some difficult times but I’m determined to focus on my recovery and make the most of life.”  

The Peugeot driver, Thomas Oliver, 23, of Blyth, Northumberland, was sentenced to 16 months in prison when he appeared at Carlisle Crown Court today.

He was also banned from driving for two years and must pass an extended test.

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