ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Top Gear crash passenger sues BBC Studios for PTSD and back injuries

other · 2026-07-12

Racing driver Paul Rees is suing BBC Studios for damages in excess of £100,000, alleging he suffered back injuries and PTSD from a December 2022 crash while filming Top Gear. Rees was a passenger offering expert driving advice when the Morgan Super 3 driven by Andrew Flintoff rolled over at Dunsfold Airfield in Surrey. The incident occurred during a power test between the Morgan and a Toyota GR86. Rees claims BBC Studios failed to warn of the risks of drifting a three-wheeled car. BBC Studios denies negligence, stating Rees gave faulty instructions that caused the accident. Flintoff suffered serious facial and rib injuries and later reached a compensation settlement with the BBC in 2023. The BBC has since rested Top Gear but is reportedly exploring a return.

Key facts

  • Paul Rees is suing BBC Studios for damages over £100,000.
  • Rees claims back injuries and PTSD from the crash.
  • The crash occurred on 13-15 December 2022 at Dunsfold Airfield.
  • Andrew Flintoff was driving a Morgan Super 3 when it rolled over.
  • Rees was providing expert driving advice from the passenger seat.
  • BBC Studios denies negligence and says Rees gave faulty instructions.
  • Flintoff settled with the BBC in 2023.
  • Top Gear has been rested but may return.

Entities

Artists

  • Andrew Flintoff
  • Paul Rees
  • Paddy McGuinness
  • Chris Harris

Institutions

Locations

  • Dunsfold Airfield
  • Surrey
  • United Kingdom
  • Dunsfold Park Aerodrome
  • Oxfordshire

Sources