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Samantha was a passenger in a vehicle which was involved in a fatal head-on road traffic accident. Although Samantha survived the tragic accident, she did sustain significant lifechanging physical and psychiatric injuries.
Samantha was trapped in the vehicle for a considerable time and was subsequently taken to hospital in an ambulance. She had sustained multiple broken bones with the most serious being a spinal fracture. Her injuries were so severe that she was hospitalised for over a week.
She experienced PTSD following the accident. She was unable to work and the accident had a profound impact on her everyday life.
Samantha contacted us with a view to claim. She had a free initial consultation with Harry McAleese who she went on to instruct with her case.
As Samantha was a passenger, it was clear from the outset that she was not to blame for the accident. Often, this means a settlement can be reached quickly. However, as this devasting crash was fatal for another involved, the insurance company required a Coroner’s investigation to conclude before liability could be admitted.
It was also clear that assessing the appropriate amount in compensation (known as ‘quantum’) in this case would be difficult due to the complexity and severity of the injuries sustained.
Many expert reports were required to detail Samantha’s injuries.
Harry obtained a number of medical reports, including reports from the following experts:
Reports were also obtained from an Occupational Therapist and Care Consultant. An accountancy report was also required.
Harry issued proceedings in the High Court and the case was listed for a three-day hearing.
One week prior to the hearing, settlement negotiations were entered and the matter successfully settled for £625,000 plus legal fees.
This significant sum was essential to fund giving Samantha the best quality of life available to her given the extent of her injuries.
Catastrophic injury claims such as spinal injury and brain damage claims can be extremely complex. The outcome of such litigation will significantly impact the quality of life for the injured person.
Our personal injury department consists of experienced experts in dealing with such matters whether injuries were sustained in a road traffic accident, accident at work or as a result of clinical negligence. The department is so well regarded, that it is currently ranked in the top band in the prestigious Chambers Guide.
Visit Spinal Injury Claims or Road Traffic Accidents to learn more about our services.
If you would like to arrange a free initial consultation for you or a loved one, Contact Us today.
The name referenced throughout this case study is a pseudonym that has been put in place to protect the client’s privacy.
