Lawyers Secure Interim Payment Allowing Dad To Access Specialist Rehabilitation He Requires

A pedestrian who suffered a traumatic brain injury when he was knocked down by a motorbike in central London has spoken for the first time about his battle to return to health.

Jack Castle-Jones suffered a catalogue of injuries including a fractured skull, a bleed on the brain, fractured cheekbone, broken right knee and collapsed lung when he was involved in a collision with a bike outside Baker Street tube station in Marylebone Road. 

The 29-year-old spent two months in hospital, including in intensive care, following the crash which happened when the dad-of-two was walking to work.

Jack, who has been unable to return to his job in construction since, instructed expert serious injury lawyers at Irwin Mitchell to investigate and help him gain access the specialist rehabilitation he requires.

Now, after the legal experts agreed a settlement on liability with the representatives of the motorcyclist and secured an interim payment, Jack has revealed how he is beginning to look more positively to the future.

Expert Opinion

“The consequences of the collision and the devastating injuries he suffered have had a tremendous impact on Jack’s life, and the lives of his family.

“Jack has made significant progress considering the seriousness of his injuries, however, he still faces a lengthy battle to try and overcome his injuries the best he can.

“While nothing can make up for what has happened, we are pleased to have secured the interim payment, allowing Jack to access the specialist therapies and support he requires to maximise his recovery.

“We will continue to support Jack throughout his recovery. It is vital that all road users pay attention at all times to help reduce the number of people serious injured in accidents.” Peter Lorence - Senior Associate Solicitor

Jack, of Watford, was attempting to cross Marylebone Road at around 7.30am on 2 November, 2017, when he was involved in a collision with a motorbike.

He was taken to St Mary’s Hospital where he underwent life-saving brain surgery. He was transferred to Watford General Hospital on 10 December before he was admitted to Blackheath Brain Injury Rehabilitation Centre on New Year’s Day, 2018.

Jack is now living with his parents Karen and Steve Lockwood. He still suffers behavioural, memory and mobility problems as well as fatigue following the collision. 

He has also gone on to suffer from seizures and has been diagnosed with epilepsy.

Police investigated the collision but decided not to prosecute the motorcyclist.

However, following investigations by Irwin Mitchell which indicated the motorcyclist was travelling at 48mph in a 30mph zone moments before the collision, insurers agreed a settlement on liability.

Jack said: “My injuries meant that it was not just the events leading up to the collision that I could not remember, but also many things that happened months beforehand. 

“My injuries have had a huge impact on my life. I miss working and doing many of the things such as playing football and boxing, things that I used to take for granted.

“I have trouble concentrating when people talk to me and I get tired really easily too. I also don’t like going out alone too, as I find it makes me really anxious.

“It is difficult not knowing what the future holds, but I’m trying not to think about it too much. I’m young, so I’m trying to stay focused on my recovery. I am determined to make a recovery and get myself back to work, while I also want to get to a point where I can play more with my son, Ollie, and kick a ball around with him.”

He added: “I understand that accidents happen, especially when on the road, but it was an accident that could have cost me my life. 

“I’m just so grateful for the great medical care and support I received from St Mary’s. From what I have been told about the accident and how bad my injuries were, the hospital probably saved my life.  

“I now just hope that my experience acts as a warning to all road users to take care at all times.”

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