In January 2009, while test filming for Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, Holmes injured his spine in an accident during one of the stunts. He was left paralysed and now uses a wheelchair. A documentary film, 'David Holmes: The Boy Who Lived,' surrounding the incident was released in 2023.

After becoming disabled, he took up automobile racing, driving a car with hand controls which he could operate. With two friends – also paralysed – Holmes started Ripple Productions, which in 2020 launched a podcast with Daniel Radcliffe, called Cunning Stunts, interviewing other stunt actors to raise awareness about the risks they face.

In 2009, the David Holmes Cricket Cup was founded. It has since raised over 100,000 pounds for the Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital and other spinal charities.