A highly skilled British Army motorcyclist, renowned for his daredevil displays, is launching a High Court battle against the Ministry of Defence after a rehearsal for a public stunt went catastrophically wrong, leaving him with devastating injuries and constant pain.
Corporal Paul Sanderson, a seasoned rider with the Royal Signals Motorcycle Display Team, alleges that a critical safety failure during a practice session at the Ministry of Defence's Bovington Camp in Dorset caused a horrific crash. The incident has prematurely ended his promising military career.
A Life-Altering Crash
The accident occurred as Cpl Sanderson practised the 'wall of death' manoeuvre—a high-speed, vertical circuit within a wooden cylinder. He claims the specially designed ramp he was using collapsed beneath him without warning. The violent impact threw him from his bike, resulting in severe damage to his shoulder, back, and neck.
Instead of a triumphant performance for the public, the soldier faced a future of relentless agony. He now suffers from permanent chronic pain, severely limited mobility, and the psychological trauma of seeing his career vanish in an instant.
Allegations of MoD Negligence
Legal papers filed at the High Court point to a shocking alleged breach of duty. Cpl Sanderson's claim asserts that the MoD, as his employer, failed in its fundamental responsibility to provide a safe working environment.
The claim specifically cites a failure to properly maintain and inspect the stunt equipment. It argues that the MOD neglected to ensure the wooden structure was fit for its intense purpose, directly leading to the collapse that caused his life-changing injuries.
The Human Cost of Service
This case highlights the immense physical risks taken by military personnel, even in their ceremonial and display roles. Cpl Sanderson's story is not just about a single accident; it's about the aftermath—the loss of his profession, his livelihood, and his health.
The MoD has acknowledged the claim but has yet to file a full defence. A spokesperson stated that the health and wellbeing of their personnel remains a top priority, yet they are unable to comment further on ongoing legal proceedings.
This lawsuit will undoubtedly be watched closely, as it questions the duty of care owed to those who serve and the consequences when that duty is allegedly broken.
