A WHITEFIELD motorcyclist suffered horrific leg injuries when an overtaking car smashed into him at a notorious accident blackspot.

Burnley Crown Court heard how Samuel Bernstein was enjoying his weekly Sunday morning ride on Grane Road, near Belthorn, Blackburn, when he was struck by a car driven by Imran Patel.

Patel, who was late for work, had overtaken a line of vehicles on a blind bend and was on the wrong side of the road. It was only the victim's skill as a rider which averted a head-on crash, the court was told.

Mr Bernstein was on crutches for eight weeks and was plunged into depression when it was feared he may face amputation. He was likely to be left scarred, if not disabled, and was also haunted by the fact his 12-year-old child normally went with him and could have been on the back of the bike.

Patel was jailed for four months by Recorder Singleton who said Mr Bernstein was a wholly "innocent victim." She said the defendant was in an "aggressive hurry", and, although not racing, had been speeding because a car behind him was going faster than him.

Recorder Singleton added Patel had shown a complete disregard for the safety of others and the public was entitled to be protected.

Patel, of Lancaster Place, Blackburn, admitted dangerous driving on September 21 last year. He was also banned for two years and must take an extended re-test.

John prosecuting, told the court Mr Bernstein tried to go into lay-by to avoid a collision but his bike was knocked from under him.

One witness thought "lunatic," as he overtook him and other cars. Another driver said "idiot," as Patel passed him.

Patel stopped after the crash and went back to the accident, but told police he did not stay because a lot of people were there and he feared for his safety.

Mr Bernstein needed a skin graft to a foot injury, suffered broken bones and his right calf muscle was torn apart. He was in hospital for nine days, had finger and knee damage and had to have stitches.

The prosecutor said the victim had to have an operation which led to complications and a blood clot. He had not been able to go back on his bike since.

Anthony Morris, defending, said Patel expressed complete remorse for the unfortunate outcome of the collision and had tried to phone Mr Bernstein to apologise.

Patel, who came from a good family, had now got a car of lower capacity. The offence was a one-off and there was no evidence to show he posed any risk to the public in the future.