Injured cyclist in £2m payout

A CYCLIST has won a £2million out-of-court settlement after suffering “life-changing” brain injuries in a road accident in Delph.

John Wellock (61) from Mossley was hit by a car which pulled out in front of him on the A62 in September 2010. It is believed his cycle helmet saved his life, but he suffered a major brain injury and spent nine months in hospital. He is now dependent on his wife Elaine.

The couple instructed specialist serious injury solicitors to investigate the crash following an admission of liability by the defendant’s insurers. The driver had pleaded guilty to careless driving in 2011.

The huge settlement was approved by the High Court in Manchester yesterday and includes provision for the family to return to court if Mr Wellock later develops epilepsy as a result of his brain injury.

Before the accident, Mr Wellock was a self-employed estimator/salesman for an interior-design company but will not be able to work again. His wife gave up her job to take care of him.

Mr Wellock now attends his local Headway Group and is passionate about campaigning for the wearing of cycle helmets to be made compulsory for everyone.

He said: “I believe wearing a cycle helmet saved my life. I’ve been campaigning to try and make them compulsory for all. Anything that can be done to improve safety for cyclists is extremely important.”