Broughton Astley man sues for serious injuries sustained in motorcycle accident

11 November 2010: A Broughton Astley man is taking legal action against the car driver who he blames for the serious injuries he sustained when knocked off his motorbike.

In September 2007 Ben Bates, age 22, was riding along the Cosby Road towards Cosby. A car driven by Michelle Morrall emerged from a line of traffic from the opposite direction to overtake, and struck him.

Mr Bates was taken to Leicester Royal Infirmary with multiple injuries to his right lower limb and right arm. He was operated on that evening for reconstruction surgery on his leg.

Since then he has had to give up his job as a warehouse supervisor and is hoping to train for a new job which will suit his injuries better.

Ms Morrall pleaded guilty to driving without due care and attention at Leicester magistrates court in 2008.

Mr Bates is represented in his claim by Lisa Samuel, a specialist lawyer in motorcycle accident claims with Cardiff-based NewLaw.

‘The claim is still in its early stages and papers have only just been lodged with the court,’ Lisa Samuel explains.

‘We shall begin negotiations with the defendants’ lawyers and hope we may be able to settle the claim before it reaches trial. But that may still take some time, given the extent of Ben’s injuries.

‘Ben has dealt with his injury in a very stoical manner for someone of his age, and is currently trying to rebuild his life by re-training to become a motor mechanic.

In a brief statement, Ben Bates said:

‘No-one should underestimate the impact that this type of injury has on your life. I’m determined however that I will return to as normal a life as possible for as long as my injury will allow me.’

11/11/2010