A man who survived a horrific car crash that left him on a life support machine has won his five-year battle to secure compensation.

Michael Hankins, was being given a lift home from his job as restaurant supervisor at the Burger King at Cherwell Valley Services near junction ten of the M40, on the night of the accident in October 2003. The vehicle he was travelling in crashed near a disused railway bridge in Kings Sutton.

He had to be cut out of the car and required emergency surgery to remove two blood clots from his brain. In addition, he needed reconstructive surgery under his left eye due to the damage that had been caused.

Mr Hankins said the only thing he remembers from the crash was repeatedly asking the driver to slow down. He still suffers from major memory problems which prevents him from working.

Mr Hankins said: “It has been five years of hell. My mum and dad have taken a lot of it with my temper. First of all I wasn’t allowed out on my own because I was on anti-epilepsy medicine and then there was the frustration because I can’t hold down a proper job. It was a life or death situation but now I don’t let anything bother me”

He pursued his legal claim through the Motor Insurers Bureau which compensates victims of uninsured accidents. He also received free legal advice from the union Unite as he was a member. He was awarded £340,000 compensation which has been put into a trust.

Frank O’Connor, a Director of Macks Solicitors and a member of the Law Society Personal Injury Panel said “This accident has had life changing consequences for Mr Hankins and the damages he has received reflect this. Claims involving head injuries are complex and it is important that victims receive expert advice from a lawyer who is experienced in handling high value claims”.

“Macks Solicitors have recovered several million pound plus settlements for clients who have suffered serious head injury. Even a relatively minor injury can lead to symptoms that severely affect everyday activities for many months and many people remain disabled a year or more after their accident. We aim to maximise any rewards for compensation, obtain the best medical care and treatment for our clients and help plan for any future needs”.