May marks Motorbike Safety Awareness Month. It is a time to reflect on the freedom and risks associated with riding. It is also an opportunity to share real stories that highlight the importance of rider safety and the life-changing consequences of a serious accident. For Paul Allum, a retired medical physics engineer and lifelong motorbike enthusiast, one ride changed everything. His story is one of survival, recovery, and the critical importance of legal and medical support after a devastating collision.

The Day Everything Changed

In 2023, Paul was in Scotland for a 60th birthday celebration when tragedy struck. A severe motorcycle accident left him with multiple injuries including fractured vertebrae, broken ribs, and numerous breaks in his arms and legs. The injuries were so severe he was placed in an induced coma. Paul was rushed to the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital in Glasgow, a leading facility for spinal trauma. He remained there for three months receiving intensive care. Sadly, spinal injuries like Paul’s are all too common among motorcyclists, especially when crashes occur at speed or on rural roads. A Long Road To Recovery Recovery was far from easy. Paul faced life with complete paralysis from the chest down, along with limited use of his right arm. For anyone, this would be a monumental adjustment. For someone as active and independent as Paul, it was life-altering. The support of his family and legal team became essential. Director Stephen Hay of Gildeas Solicitors visited Paul in hospital, working closely with both him and his loved ones to ensure everything was in place, including interim financial support and specialist medical assessments.

Adapting To A New Life

Once stable, Paul was moved to a care facility closer to home in the southeast of England. But life would never be the same. His family home required extensive adaptations. At 6 feet 7, Paul needed a custom wheelchair and specialised equipment for mobility and care. A new accessible home was found with enough space for his family and a live-in carer. Gildeas Solicitors secured interim payments from the third party’s insurer to cover home modifications, a specially adapted van, and long-term care arrangements. The Value of Legal Support Thanks to expert handling of his case, Paul received a settlement of £5.9 million. Whilst no amount of money can undo what happened, the compensation provides Paul with financial security, ensuring that his care, housing, transport, and quality of life are protected for the future. “Stephen assisted at all stages in my recovery,” Paul said. “From arranging experts to helping find a suitable property, to just being there when I needed advice. I’m now looking forward to going home with my family.”

Motorbike Safety: Lessons From Experience

Paul’s story is a sobering reminder of how vulnerable motorcyclists are. According to Police Scotland:
  • Motorcyclists make up just 1% of road users in Scotland, but account for approximately 14 percent of all road deaths.
  • In 2023, there were 26 motorcycle fatalities. This figure has remained relatively unchanged over the past 30 years, even as fatalities among other road users have decreased.
  • The majority of motorcyclist casualties are men, with the most common age range being 46 to 55.
  • Loss of control is the most frequent contributory factor in motorcyclist collisions, often occurring in rural areas, particularly on weekends.

We’re Here If You Need Us

At Gildeas Solicitors, we specialise in supporting injured motorcyclists and their families through some of the most difficult times in their lives. If you or someone you know has been involved in a motorcycle accident, speak to our team today. The right legal advice could make all the difference.

Gildeas Solicitors is a recognised law firm specialising in personal injury claims, supporting you throughout Scotland from our offices in Glasgow and Edinburgh. We’re passionate about what we do, whilst putting our clients’ interests first. That’s why we make personal injury personal.

Considering our services? Call our dedicated team today on 0141  331  6070.