Rodney Nelson-Jones
obtained judgment in favour of Oliver, a child who had run
out into the road and was subsequently knocked down by a car. In
July 2001, Mrs Justice Hallett approved settlement of the
compensation to be paid to him in the sum of £1,500,000, plus the
CRU entitlement and costs.
Oliver was five years-old at the time of the accident. He
suffered a severe head injury followed by a prolonged coma. He also
suffered severe abdominal injuries including a ruptured liver and a
fractured femur.
Now 11 years old, Oliver has been left with a left-sided
weakness and palsy in the left arm, left-sided weakness in his leg,
buttocks and thigh muscles and shortening of the left leg.
In a year or so, his walking ability will decrease and he will
become more dependent on his wheelchair. The cost of a powered
wheelchair and a stair lift for future use in the house were
approved.
Although it is unlikely that Oliver will be able to drive
himself, the cost of a suitable car for his future transport was
also claimed. The cost of other items required, such as a shower
seat and small pieces of household equipment e.g. special cutlery
and crockery were also awarded, together with an amount for the
additional pairs of shoes he requires, plus special shoes.
Severe brain damage has left him mentally and physically
disabled to such an extent that makes him permanently incapable of
managing his affairs, living independently or be employed in the
open market. His life expectancy has not been significantly
shortened.
The approved settlement included amounts for speech and
occupational therapy, physiotherapy and tuition. It also included
the future cost of residential care at a school suited to his needs
between the ages of 11 and 21. An amount to enable him to pay for
care but to live independently of his family from the age of 21 was
also included.
For further information or if you have a road traffic accident claim, contact Rodney Nelson-Jones on
020 7861 4022 or email rodney.nelson-jones@ffw.com
You can discuss your road traffic accident claim with any member
of our personal injury team on freephone
0800 358 3848, email personalinjury@ffw.com or
complete our short enquiry form.