Southwark Man Hurt When Car Turned Across His Path

A man is appealing for drivers to be aware of motorcyclists after suffering serious injuries when a car turned across the path of his bike.

Oliver Spragley was riding along the Newington Causeway in September 2018 when he collided with the vehicle, which had blocked all lanes of traffic as it attempted to turn across the road.

The 33-year-old was taken to Kings College Hospital following the incident which happened near the Elephant and Castle roundabout. He remained in hospital for five nights and underwent surgery for his injuries which included serious fractures to his right leg, as well as a dislocated shoulder.

The driver of the car subsequently pleaded guilty to the charge of driving without due care and attention and received eight points on their licence and was ordered to pay a £120 fine and £130 costs.

Oliver recently underwent further surgery on his leg but is still suffering with mobility problems. He has instructed expert serious injury lawyers at Irwin Mitchell to help him access the specialist therapies and rehabilitation he requires for his injuries.

Oliver, who lives near Elephant and Castle, has now joined his legal team in urging all road users to never forget the importance of putting safety first.

Expert Opinion

“This is a terrible case which undoubtedly highlights just why road users need to think about the safety of themselves and others at all times.

“While the driver involved in this case received points and a fine, the consequences for Oliver are much more long-term and life-changing.

“We are determined to ensure Oliver gets access to the support he requires following his experiences, but it is also very important that this case acts as a reminder for road users to pay attention at all times." Peter Lorence - Senior Associate Solicitor

Find out more about Irwin Mitchell's expertise in handling serious injury cases 

Oliver, who works in construction and carpentry, needed to have a nail fitted to his leg as part of treatment on his fracture and has since had further surgery. In addition, follow-up appointments highlighted a painful injury to his shoulder which may never heal, even with surgery.

Discussing the crash, Oliver said: “Everything happened so quickly and as soon as I saw the car I knew I had no time to react.

“It has been very hard coming to terms with my injuries and the whole incident has had a major effect on my life. Prior to the crash I would go to the gym very often, undertake DIY and also work on classic cars. Since the collision I’ve been unable to do any of that. The injuries have also stopped me from working and this has been upsetting for me.

“It is devastating to think how the crash has affected me, physically and mentally. Bikers and motorcyclists can be very vulnerable on the road and people need to be aware of it. Safety always has to be a fundamental priority.”