Funds Will Pay For Specialist Rehabilitation And Therapies Former Astrophysicist Requires As Well As Home Adaptations, Aids And Equipment

A former astrophysicist who had a leg amputated following a crash has spoken of her determination to look to the future after lawyers secured her a settlement. 

Dr Alison Broadbent suffered a catalogue of injuries when she was knocked down by a van while crossing Acacia Road in Bishop Auckland. Alison, 56, had to have her right leg amputated above the knee.

Serious injury lawyers investigate collision

Following the crash Alison, of Bishop Auckland, instructed expert serious injury lawyers at Irwin Mitchell to investigate. 

While police decided not to charge the driver, Alison’s legal team reached an agreement on liability with the van driver’s insurers. Irwin Mitchell has now secured an undisclosed settlement from the insurers which will fund the specialist lifetime therapy and support Alison requires because of her injuries. It will also allow her to carry out specialist adaptations to her home and to purchase various aids and equipment, allowing Alison to live as independently as possible.

Alison reveals hope for future after receiving settlement

Alison is now using Limb Loss and Limb Difference Awareness Month to speak of her hope for the future and raise awareness of the support available to help others who have suffered serious injury. 

Expert Opinion

“Alison suffered truly terrible injuries in the collision which have had a profound effect on her life.

“Despite everything she’s been through and trying to come to terms with the physical and psychological impact of her injuries, Alison has always remained positive and determined to make the best recovery possible.

“While she’s made great progress she still faces many challenges and will do so for the rest of her life. We’re pleased that we’ve been able to secure this settlement which will ensure Alison can access to the best support available to live as independently as possible.

“We continue to be humbled by Alison’s attitude not to be defined by what happened to her. We join her in supporting Limb Loss and Limb Difference Awareness Month and its importance in highlighting the help and support that’s available and how people can flourish after serious injury.” Laura Mcilduff - Senior Associate Solicitor & Newcastle Office Early Careers Regional Representative

Amputation: Alison Broadbent's story

Alison was a former astrophysicist before becoming a landscape gardener. She was crossing Acacia Road when she was involved in a collision with a Vauxhall Movano Van at around 5pm on 15 November, 2018. 

The driver was arrested on suspicion of causing serious injury by dangerous driving but police later decided to take no action against him. 

Alison, who was trapped under the vehicle and had to be freed, was taken to James Cook University Hospital. 

She had suffered multiple leg fractures, a fractured pelvis and collarbone as well as degloving injuries where skin was ripped from her arm, hand and leg,

Doctors ruled there was little option other than to amputate her right leg just below the hip. She also underwent a number of other operations including skin grafts. Alison was discharged from hospital on 18 January, 2019.

Specialists provide care package for County Durham woman

Irwin Mitchell continues to work alongside a range of people including a case manager, neuro-physiotherapist, occupational therapist, psychologist and dietician to support Alison’s needs. 

After a series of appointments Alison was fitted with a custom made prosthetic leg. The leg includes a computerised knee and hydraulic ankle joint allowing Alison to walk on two feet, stand up or sit down. 

Alison has now booked a visit to The Ritz for afternoon tea, is going to the Chelsea Flower Show and wants to achieve her dream of visiting a rainforest on holiday. 

Alison supports Limb Loss and Limb Difference Awareness Month

She said: “The last few years and coming to terms with what happened and how life would be different has been difficult. There have been some emotional times, particularly at the start of my recovery when it seemed like my life just revolved around medical appointments. 

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

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

“I’m looking forward to getting out more, particularly after the last couple of years and the pandemic. I can’t wait to visit The Ritz and the Chelsea Flower Show and I’m now looking into visiting a rainforest.   

“I’ll always be forever grateful to everyone who has helped and supported me over the last few years. They have been there for me and I probably wouldn’t have been able to make the progress in my recovery that I have. 

“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.”

Support available

Find out more about our expertise in supporting people affected by limb loss or limb difference at our dedicated amputation claims section. Alternatively to speak to an expert contact us or call 0370 1500 100.

Limb Loss and Limb Difference Awareness Month runs throughout April and aims to highlight the impact of such conditions and how those affected are rebuilding their independence. It is supported by a number of charities including LimbPower, Limbless Association, Steel Bones and Blesma.