A Queensland dad is stuck overseas in a coma after a horrific scooter crash that paralyzed half his body and left him with brain damage, as six-figure medical bills pile up.
Brenton Simmons, 28, was riding a scooter with his partner in Thailand when they crashed into a concrete barrier. His girlfriend was wearing a helmet during the accident and was not injured.
More than half of his brain is injured and he cannot move one side of his body.
Brenton Simmons, 28 (right) was riding a scooter with his partner (left) when the horrific accident occurred.
“He has seven broken ribs, a broken collarbone, and a damaged eye socket,” loved ones wrote in a GoFundMe for the family.
Mr Simmons’ two children, aged three and nine, are back in Queensland with their mother while his partner remains by his side in hospital.
Although Mr. Simmons had travel insurance, his hospital bills were not covered because the policy did not extend to such injuries on motorcycles.
“His hospital bill alone is $80,000, and the return trip to Australia by air ambulance will cost him $200,000.”
A friend said his mother is considering selling her house to finance medical expenses.
Simmons suffered serious head injuries in the crash and his family is now fundraising to bring him back to Australia.
“Donations will be greatly appreciated as his family is doing everything they can to get him back to Australia and close to his loving family.”
It’s yet another reminder to Australians traveling to Southeast Asia that they should check their travel insurance covers motorcycle injuries because mopeds are the main mode of transport in that region.
Travel insurance companies will not cover you if you do not have your Australian motorcycle license (if you ride over 50cc), you are not wearing a helmet, you are under the influence of alcohol or you have not obtained the correct documentation such as a driving license. international.
