Sussex motorcyclist delivering Covid-19 tests injured on A20

Christopher Riggs, of Northiam, near Rye, was delivering lateral flow kits to a patient about to undergo surgery when he was in a crash.

He suffered a fractured spine, left ankle and pelvis, as well as a broken arm and a dislocated shoulder - spending two weeks in hospital as a result.

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The 60-year-old grandfather's lawyers said that the police investigated the collision, but decided not to take action against the driver.

Scene of the crash on the A20 on June 15

Speaking about the crash for the first time, Christopher 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."

Christopher Riggs with his granddaughters Hari, aged four, and Sennen, aged two

Christopher, a grandfather to four-year-old Hari and two-year-old Sennen, is currently undergoing rehabilitation.

He said his injuries have prevented him from helping Hari, who has been treated for leukaemia, and Hari's mother Sarah, 39.

“It’s not just me who is affected,” he said. “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.”

Self-employed business consultant Christopher was a volunteer rider delivering blood and working for the Kent, Surrey and Sussex Air Ambulance restock team.

At the time of the collision, on June 15 this year, he was helping to deliver Covid tests.

Christopher said he was travelling on the A20 in Horn Park, London, when a VW Passat turned right across the carriageway into his path.

“I came off the throttle and began to brake. As I did this, the car suddenly pulled out across the dual carriageway,” he said.

“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.”

Christopher Riggs after the crash

Christopher underwent a number of operations and was left unable to get out of bed or dress himself without help from his wife Carole, 61.

He instructed serious injury lawyers at Irwin Mitchell to investigate and help him access the specialist rehabilitation and therapies he requires.

Irwin Mitchell said his legal team had managed to secure an admission of liability from the driver’s insurers, and Christopher now has the funding he needs.

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.”

Christopher, who previously scored 100 per cent in his Institute of Advanced Motorists’ motorcycle test, hopes that by speaking out he can raise awareness of road safety.