Simpson Millar secures £10m compensation for woman significantly injured in road crash

Legal Action

Following the incident Simpson Millar was instructed to bring a claim for compensation against the driver’s insurers.

The legal team, led by Personal Injury Law expert Matthew Clayton, consulted with numerous experts to determine the full extent of her neurological and physical injuries, and to assess the ongoing impact that they would have on her life, including her ability to live independently.

Court Proceedings

Despite the driver of the car later being convicted of causing serious injury by dangerous driving, the defendant in the case initially disputed liability for the incident, arguing contributory negligence on the part of the pedestrian.

The woman’s legal team disputed this claim, and at court hearing which took place in April 2024 a Judge found that the driver was 100% responsible for the crash.

Compensation Awarded

The victim was also awarded a significant £10m compensation care package that reflects her loss of earnings, as well as her ongoing care and rehabilitation requirements, in addition to the specialist equipment and accommodation needs.

Attorney Comments

Commenting on the case Matthew Clayton, a Partner at Simpson Millar, said: “The injuries sustained by our client in the crash have had a devastating impact on every aspect of her life.

“Not only did she sustain life changing physical injuries as a result of the collision, but she also suffered a brain injury that means she will need ongoing care and support. She will never be able to work to support herself or live a fully independent life.

“We welcome the court’s findings that the driver was 100% responsible for what happened, and to award our client with a compensation care package that will provide her with financial security moving forward.”

Welcoming an additional ruling in relation to costs Matthew added: “Following the trial the defence were also ordered to pay the claimants legal costs, which is normal in cases such as this.

“However, we welcome the Judge’s ruling that additional costs should also be paid in recognition that the case could and should have settled at an earlier stage, without going to court.

“Where possible, we are committed to working with defendants to determine the true value of a client’s claim so that we can secure a settlement as quickly as possible, allowing them to move forward with their lives safe in the knowledge that they have access to the care and support that they need both in the immediate and longer-term future.”