Russell-Cooke’s personal injury and medical negligence team has recently secured a £2 million settlement from Admiral Insurance for a 71-year old woman who suffered a catastrophic spinal cord injury which led to her being paralysed from the waist down following a traffic accident in 2020.
Russell-Cooke’s client, the claimant, was struck when crossing a road to a bus stop in dark and appalling weather conditions. She crossed at a junction, close to but not making use of a pedestrian centre island.
There was no evidence that the defendant driver was speeding, but it was alleged that she should have seen the claimant sooner and/or taken more effective evasive action.
With liability and quantum still in dispute, a settlement was reached on the basis of a 70/30 apportionment in the claimant’s favour. The sum takes into account her reduced life expectancy and cost of commercial care for the rest of her life, the general damage claim and other ongoing costs associated with her paralysis.
The Russell-Cooke team was led by senior associate Lucy Lawson assisted by associate Ellie Miles. Lucy Lawson instructed James Arney KC of Temple Garden Chambers. She also instructed experts in 12 different specialisms to cover all aspects of the collision and the client’s injuries.
Lucy Lawson said: “The collision left my client paraplegic and turned her life upside down. She was keen to achieve a settlement as quickly as possible and I am very pleased that we were able to agree a sum that will make a real difference to her quality of life. It was important to take a robust stance but also to work collaboratively to get the best outcome for her.
Our personal injury team is experienced in dealing with a wide range of claims, from those of modest value to catastrophic injury and fatal accident cases. In relation to road traffic accidents - the most common type of claim - our clients include pedestrians, passengers, drivers, cyclists and bus passengers. We have pursued claims against a range of defendants including private individuals and the Motor Insurers' Bureau.
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If you would like to speak with a member of the team you can contact our personal injury law solicitors by email, by telephone on +44 (0)20 3826 7517 or complete our enquiry form below.
