The family of a man who suffered life-changing brain injuries when he was thrown from his bike have spoken of their “massive relief” after being awarded a £2 million compensation payout.
As the Manchester Evening News reports, John Wellock, 65, was knocked off his bike when a motorist pulled out in front of him on the A62 Huddersfield Road in Delph, Oldham in September 2010.
The driver pleaded guilty to driving without due care and attention at Oldham Magistrates Court in 2011.
The accident left the former salesman in a coma with severe brain injuries, after which he then had to endure nine months of intense rehabilitation in hospital.
However, life will never be the same for John, whose injuries mean he is now dependent on the care of his wife, Elaine, and forced him into an early retirement.
Elaine, 58, who was also forced to give up work following the crash, said it had been a difficult few years for the couple, but she hopes the settlement will ensure a more secure future for them both.
“The settlement is a massive relief and a weight off our shoulders. We can now look to the future as we know that John’s care needs will be taken care of for the rest of his life,” she explained.
“We know nothing will ever be the same again but at least now we have some comfort in knowing that we have the security provided by the settlement.”
Since the accident, John has been campaigning to try and make cycle helmets compulsory, stating that he believes his life was saved by wearing one.
