3 minute read
Six-year-old, Freya, was riding in a miniature train at a Christmas attraction in Donegal. As it went around a bend, she fell through the doorway and she was dragged a short distance before the alarm was raised. She was left with lacerations to her leg. The accident left the child shaken and far more concerned about the possibility of accidents occurring than any six-year-old should. As a consequence, Freya’s father contacted us with a view to pursue compensation for his child.
Freya’s father had the benefit of a free initial consultation with Michael Alison who is qualified to practise as a solicitor in both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. As the accident occurred in Donegal, Freya would require a solicitor in the Republic of Ireland despite her family residing in Northern Ireland. Fortunately, we were able to accept instruction through our Dublin based sister firm, F.V. Harty & Co.
Michael issued a letter of claim on the attraction operators who denied liability. He had Freya examined by several medical consultants including a consultant plastic surgeon and a consultant psychiatrist. The medical reports provided by the experts helped Michael establish what he believed to be a fair valuation for the sustained injuries. Soon after, the case was listed for a court hearing in Dublin.
As the court date drew nearer and in light of the medical evidence, the attraction operators indicated that they would like to discuss settlement. Following a brief period of negotiation, Michael settled the matter for the sum of €192,500 that would be paid to Freya on her eighteenth birthday. In the meantime, the compensation would be held by the court where it would accrue interest. However, the judge allowed payment of €2,500 now to Freya’s father to cover expenses for items that would be of assistance to Freya at school, such as a laptop.
The case attracted media attention and was reported on by the Irish Independent.
If you or your child was injured in a public place, our team of personal injury solicitors are available to help you too. You can learn more about our Public & Occupiers’ Liability Claims service or contact us for a free, no-commitment discussion with a personal injury specialist solicitor.
