3 minute read
Elizabeth (Liz) was a passenger in a car travelling through a town in County Down. Unfortunately, the driver of another vehicle behind failed to brake in time and collided with the rear of the car Liz was in.
Liz sustained soft tissue injuries to her neck and back, commonly referred to as whiplash. These injuries affected her ability to carry out everyday tasks. She also experienced psychological effects, struggling with anxiety for a period afterwards, particularly when in or near motor vehicles.
Liz contacted our personal injury claims department with a view to claim. She had the benefit of a free initial consultation with Harry McAleese who she went on to instruct with her claim.
Medical reports were obtained from a Consultant in Emergency Medicine, a Consultant Psychiatrist and a Consultant Neurologist. Proceedings were then issued in the High Court and Counsel was instructed to act on Liz’s behalf.
As no appearance was entered for the defendant driver, judgment in default was obtained. This means that the defendant failed to enter an appearance or deliver a defence within the prescribed time limits, so judgment is entered against them automatically for liability.
In personal injury cases, even after judgment in default on liability, damages still need to be assessed, often by the court unless the parties agree a figure.
This case was subsequently settled with the driver’s insurer without the need for a hearing, with, to the delight of Liz, a settlement figure of £27,500.
If you were involved in a road traffic accident and suffered whiplash or any other injury, we can advise you too.
Visit Whiplash Claims to learn more about how we can help or Contact Us for a free initial consultation with an expert solicitor.
The name referenced throughout this case study is a pseudonym that has been put in place to protect the client’s privacy.
