Showjumper, 23, thrown from horse when van hit them wins payout

An award-winning show-jumper who was thrown from her horse when a vat hit them in a horrific crash leaving her needing a walking frame has won a six-figure payout.

Talented rider Ria Comins was on her horse Ruby when the animal was spooked and struck by the van.

The 23-year-old was left with a broken bone protruding from her leg and was rushed to hospital where she underwent surgery as well as a blood transfusion.

She remained in hospital for eight days, however when she was discharged she required a walking frame to get around.

The Welsh show jumper had previously won more than 100 classes in British Showjumping Association competitions and had even been invited to compete for the nation.

However due to her injuries, the administrator has been unable to return to the sport while she recovers and had to work reduced hours following the crash.

She said: 'It's coming up to three years since the accident and even though I've come a long way, I can still get very overwhelmed by everything that I've been through.

'I've been horse riding since I was two and had been competing with Ruby for many years, so I've really struggled with how that part of my life has changed.

'I had never planned to have a lifelong office job and always wanted to do something with horses. The dream was to have my own yard, but I worry that I'll never regain the strength to carry out all the work required as it can be very labour-intensive.'

She instructed serious injury lawyers who have since won her an undisclosed pay out of at least six figures.

The sum of cash will help Ms Comins to be able to access the specialist rehabilitation and therapies she requires including specialist sleeves to aid her scarring.  

Before the horror crash in January 2022, Ms Comins lived independently. Since the crash she has needed help with a lot of her daily care.

She underwent various therapies and joined a gym to assist with her mobility.

Last November, she had surgery to remove the metalwork from her leg and in February, this year, she was given the all clear to return to horse riding and began part-time livery again but still struggles with uneven ground and the psychological impact of her injury.

She has also now won a pay-out following the crash.

Ms Comins has now thanked the support from her parents and says all she hopes this can now 'close this chapter and move forward with my life'.

She added: 'All I want to do now is make others aware of what can happen on the roads and remember that a horse rider could be around the corner. My life was changed in a split-second due to the actions of someone else and I wouldn't wish it on anyone.' 

Ehlana Penwarden, her representative, said: 'Ria's injuries have had a significant impact on her daily life, but she's worked hard at her recovery and has shown such resilience to return to horse riding after what she's been through.

'She continues to struggle at times but she's young and has learnt to manage her difficulties. We're pleased that we've been able to secure this settlement for her, which will also help her move forward and put the collision behind her.

'Horse riders are some of the most vulnerable road users and Ria's case is a vivid reminder of the potential consequences they can be left facing as a result of the actions of others. We therefore urge everyone to take care on the roads at all times.'