When Jy Simpkin steps out onto the field on Wednesday night, he won't be taking it for granted.

The 20-year-old knows just how close he came to being seriously injured or even killed, during a recent night out that involved too much alcohol, and a collision with a motorcyclist while on foot.

"Looking back on it, it’s the best outcome possible. I’m very lucky to even still be here talking, and even walking. For me to have been able to walk out of the hospital and play footy again two weeks later; I’m very lucky and grateful," Simpkin told North Media.

Simpkin was crossing the road in West Melbourne in the early hours of the morning, when he blindly stepped out in front of the rider. Thankfully, the result of the collision was only badly sprained ankle and bruised ego.

"I was quite concerned, but more for the motorbike rider. Pretty early on I was told he was all right and he had walked away from the accident. That was a massive relief," he said.

"I was really embarrassed about what happened; being out at that time of night with the season just around the corner, and having had a few drinks. I’ve let everyone down within the footy club and outside of the footy club. All my teammates, coaches the fans, staff; everyone involved. I just hope I can gain back everyone’s respect and have everyone back on good terms."

The youngster knows he made a mistake and will be doing everything he can to learn from it and come out a better person.

"You’ve got to be more careful, especially when you’re out and you are drinking," Simpkin shared.

"You never really know what can happen if you don’t have all your normal levels of awareness and things. It’s about being more safe and responsible, making sure we’re making better decisions and that we’re all looking after each other."

The exciting small forward will have the chance to repay those he let down, after being named to face Richmond at Ikon Park.

"I need to play some really good footy and show everyone that it’s not the sort of person I am," he stated.

"I made a mistake that I’m embarrassed about, but the accident happened and it’s over, so I have to move on and prove why I’m at North Melbourne and show everyone what I’m capable of."

Simpkin has donated $2000 to a road trauma organisation.