Rehab hope for Covid test bike courier who suffered fractured spine in smash
A volunteer motorbike courier suffered a fractured spine when a car driver pulled into his path as he delivered covid test kits to a London hospital.
Christopher Riggs, 60, spent a fortnight in hospital, undergoing several operations, and was unable to help look after a grandson who has cancer as a result of the collision.
He spoke about the incident today as he revealed how he was attempting to rebuild his life after lawyers helped secure rehabilitation funds.
Mr Riggs was delivering lateral flow testing kits to a patient due to undergo surgery at Kings College hospital, in Denmark Hill, when the collision happened on the A20 Sidcup Road in Horn Park, south east London, on June 15.
Mr Riggs, from Northiam, East Sussex, was working as a volunteer rider for Kent-based KEM (Kent Event Marshals) at the time.
His injuries have prevented him helping his daughter Sarah, 39, look after her son, Hari, four, who is undergoing treatment for leukaemia.
He was heading towards The Dutch House café on A20 when a VW Passat turned right across the carriageway.
He said: “As I was approaching the junction I saw the car waiting to turn so I came off the throttle and began to brake. As I did this the car suddenly pulled out across the dual carriageway. I didn’t want to go over the top of the car so I tried to turn out of the way but I had nowhere to go and was thrown from my bike.”
Mr Riggs also suffered a broken right arm, fractured left ankle, fractured pelvis and dislocated right shoulder.
He said: “Before the collision I was fit and healthy. I had ridden motorcycles for many years and was a responsible and careful rider. Not only was riding my hobby and passion, it allowed me the opportunity to give something back and help out in the community.
“However, that has all changed now. I’m now left both physically and mentally shaken and unsure if I’ll be able to ride my motorcycle again.
“It’s not just me who is affected. I’m incredibly grateful to my family for all their support. Hari and Sarah are going through a tough time and I feel that I’m unable to be there for them which is particularly upsetting. However, it also makes me more determined to try and make the best recovery I can.
“The last few months have been a challenge but starting my rehabilitation has provided me with a major boost. I just hope that by speaking out other realise the hurt and pain they can cause and take care on the roads.”
Mr Riggs was a self-employed business consultant before the pandemic, and had been volunteering for KEM for four years. The charity started delivering testing kits.
He is also a blood biker for the charity Service by Emergency Rider Volunteers (SERV) in Kent and a member of the Kent, Surrey and Sussex Air Ambulance restock team.
Police decided to take no action against the driver. But his legal team at Irwin Mitchell solicitors secured an admission of liability from the driver’s insurers and funding to allow him to access rehabilitation.
His lawyer Natasha Fairs said: “Christopher is a great example of how many people gave up their time to face up to the challenges of Covid-19 and help others through the pandemic.
“The serious injuries he suffered through no fault of his own have had a real impact on not only his life but his wider family.
“While nothing can make up for the physical and emotional pain Christopher is going through we’re pleased to have been able to help him access the specialist rehabilitation he needs to overcome his injuries. Through our work in supporting people injured on the roads we often see how early access to treatment can make all the difference.
“However, Christopher’s story highlights the significant consequences people can be left to face because of the actions of others and why it’s vital all road users take care at all times.”
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