Dad Continues His Recovery With Support Of Serious Injury Lawyers

A motorcyclist who had his right leg amputated following a crash has spoken of his determination to look to the future as he continues his recovery. 

Andrew Pearson suffered life-changing injuries including a brain injury, fractures, dislocated joints and nerve damage when a car pulled out in front of him in Sleaford.

The father-of-two, from Sleaford, had to have his right leg amputated above the knee. His nerve damage means he’s lost the use of his left hand. 

Serious injury lawyers secure life-long rehab package for Sleaford dad

Following the crash, Andrew, 51, who is married to Anthea, 56, instructed expert serious injury lawyers at Irwin Mitchell to investigate. Their legal team secured Andrew access to a life-long specialist rehabilitation programme and helped the family move into a new home specifically adapted to meet his needs. 

Andrew is continuing to defy the odds as he continues his recovery. He recently completed a five kilometre walk in aid of the Richard Whitehead Foundation, which promotes the benefit sport has on people following a life-changing injury. 

Andrew completes Run with Rich charity event

He took part in the Run With Rich event alongside Jason Chidwick, who was appointed Andrew’s case manager as part of his recovery. 

Ian Whittaker, is a serious injury expert at Irwin Mitchell representing Andrew alongside Michael Turner.

Expert Opinion

“Andrew and his family have faced an incredibly difficult few years coming to terms with the collision and his life-changing injuries.

“Despite this, and while facing many challenges, Andrew has always shown a huge amount of courage and determination not to be defined by his injuries and make the most of life.

“Andrew continues to defy expectations and it’s great to see the continued progress in his recovery." Ian Whittaker - Paralegal & Associate

Expert Opinion

“Andrew's story highlights how disability need not be a barrier and how people can continue to flourish through early access to specialist support and rehabilitation.” Michael Turner - Paralegal

Serious injury: Andrew Pearson's story

Andrew was riding his Suzuki GS500E motorbike along London Road just after 4pm on 29 November, 2019, when a car pulled out in front of him near the junction with Town Road. 

Andrew was taken to Queen’s Medical Centre in Nottingham. He underwent a number of operations but doctors were unable to save his right leg.
 
He spent around four months in hospital and a further eight months in a specialist rehabilitation centre before he was allowed home to his family. 

Before the collision, Andrew was a lorry driver and enjoyed running, cycling, karate, swimming, circuit training and dancing, as well as fixing cars and motorbikes. He has been unable to return to his job because of his injuries.

He took part in the Run With Rich event at Holme Pierrepont Country Park in Nottinghamshire at the end of June. Andrew and Jason raised £395 including a £100 donation from Irwin Mitchell. 

The event raised more than £4000 in total for the charitable foundation set up by Paralympian Richard Whitehead.

Motorcyclist's determination to look to the future after undergoing amputation 

Andrew said: “Trying to come to terms with my injuries and how not only my life but my family’s lives changed in a split-second was particularly difficult. While Anthea and the kids visited me in hospital as much as they could there was a lot of time where I just by myself. 

“While that was incredibly tough it also gave my time to think about the future and setting myself targets and goals. 

“I’ve always tried to be a positive person and drew on that. While I lost my leg I also felt fortunate that I didn’t lose my life in the collision. 

“After my surgery initially it was thought that I wouldn’t be able to walk for any time or distance with a prosthesis so taking part in the event gave me something to focus on. 

“The event was pretty difficult but I was determined not to let it beat me. I’m now looking at other challenges that I can take part in. It’s just my way of giving something back as I wouldn’t be where I am now if it wasn’t for the help I’ve had. 

“What happened to me is now in the past and while life may have turned out differently than I expected I still have lots of plans for the future and things I want to achieve or enjoy. 

“I just hope that others who have found themselves in a similar situation to what I did don’t feel they have to suffer alone. There’s support out there which makes such a difference.”

Find out more about our expertise in supporting people and families following collisions at our dedicated road traffic accident claims section. Alternatively to speak to an expert contact us or call 0370 1500 100.