Paul Rees, a racing driver who was in the car with Andrew "Freddie" Flintoff during a serious crash filming Top Gear, is suing BBC Studios for up to £150,000.
Why it matters: The lawsuit highlights potential liabilities in stunt driving and production safety during television filming. It also sheds light on the aftermath of a crash that left Flintoff severely injured.
Rees was in an open-topped Morgan Super 3 when it overturned at Dunsfold Park Aerodrome in Surrey on December 13, 2022.
Flintoff suffered broken ribs and a fractured upper jaw, requiring extensive facial surgery and altering his appearance permanently.
The incident led to the indefinite suspension of Top Gear's production, raising concerns about safety protocols in television stunt work.
Driving the news: Rees filed his claim in December 2025, alleging personal injury from the crash. His legal team argues that he suffered pain and suffering due to Flintoff's actions during the filming.
BBC Studios has denied any negligence, claiming that Rees' faulty instructions contributed to the accident.
According to court documents, Flintoff expressed concern when a front wheel lifted as he navigated a corner, but Rees reassured him that it could not roll over.
Rees allegedly told Flintoff to "now turn right... now full power, full power" just before the vehicle flipped.
State of play: Flintoff settled with the BBC for a reported £9 million in compensation in 2023 following the crash.
He described being dragged face-down along the tarmac and waiting 45 minutes for an air ambulance to arrive.
Flintoff thought he was dead during the ordeal, fearing that his "face had come off" due to severe blood loss.
After the incident, he did not leave his home for six months except for medical appointments.
The big picture: This lawsuit could set a precedent for liability in reality television and stunt driving. It raises questions about the responsibilities of production companies and drivers during high-risk filming scenarios.
BBC Studios maintains that Rees did not report any injuries immediately after the crash, which they argue undermines his claims.
The broadcaster has stated it will vigorously defend against the allegations, emphasizing that the accident resulted from Rees' instructions.
The incident has put a spotlight on safety measures employed during high-speed filming and the accountability of those involved.
What they're saying: BBC Studios has publicly stated, "We dispute this claim and are defending it. As it's now before the courts, it would be inappropriate to comment any more."
Flintoff's experience has drawn widespread attention, particularly as he detailed the traumatic aftermath in a Disney+ documentary.
He recounted the harrowing moments under the overturned vehicle, emphasizing the fear and confusion he felt.
Rees has not publicly commented on the lawsuit or the details surrounding the crash.
By the numbers: The crash occurred on December 13, 2022, and Flintoff's settlement with the BBC came in 2023.
Rees is seeking damages of up to £150,000 for alleged injuries.
Flintoff's compensation settlement is reported to be £9 million, highlighting the severity of the incident.
Rees is 41 years old, and the crash has had lasting impacts on both his and Flintoff's lives.
What's next: The lawsuit will proceed through the courts, with both parties preparing for a legal battle.
As the case develops, it may result in changes to safety protocols in television productions, particularly those involving stunts.
Flintoff's future on Top Gear remains uncertain, as the show has not returned since the crash.
The outcome of this case could influence how production companies manage risk and liability in the future.