What happened?

Our client was cycling when he was involved in a collision with a vehicle. Liability was admitted by the defendant at an early stage, allowing the focus to move to understanding the full extent of the injuries and their impact on the client's life.

Following the accident, the client reported a range of injuries, including:

• Back pain
• Rib injuries
• Knee injuries
• Arm injuries
• Psychological symptoms
• Travel anxiety

Assessment of the injuries

To understand the full impact of the accident, independent medical evidence was obtained from several specialist experts.

An orthopaedic specialist assessed the client’s physical injuries, identifying soft tissue injuries affecting his back, ribs, knees and elbows. The assessment carefully considered a separate neurological condition that developed after the accident, ensuring only symptoms caused by the collision were included in the claim.

A consultant psychologist also assessed the psychological impact of the accident and diagnosed the client with:

• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
• Adjustment Disorder with Depressed Mood

The expert recommended a course of specialist therapy to support the client’s recovery and identified the potential need for further support in the future.

Negotiating a serious injury claim settlement

During settlement negotiations, the defendant initially offered £12,000 to settle the claim. Having carefully considered the medical evidence and the impact of the accident, we advised the client that this did not reflect the true value of the claim.

Court proceedings had already been issued to protect the client's position, and the matter ultimately progressed to a final quantum hearing.

At the final hearing, the defendant sought to change the arrangements at very short notice due to procedural difficulties. The court refused the request and the hearing went ahead as planned.

After considering the medical evidence and submissions from both sides, the judge agreed with our valuation of the claim and awarded the client a five-figure sum.

The award reflected not only the physical injuries caused by the collision, but also the significant psychological impact the accident had on the client's day-to-day life.

How Switalskis helped

Louise Moore of the serious injury team , provided clear, supportive advice throughout the claim, helping the client understand his options and the value of the case.

She worked closely with independent medical experts to establish the full extent of his physical and psychological injuries, while carefully distinguishing symptoms from an unrelated neurological condition identified following the accident.

When the defendant made an offer that did not reflect the evidence, we challenged it and continued to pursue the compensation the client deserved. Louise also ensured court proceedings were issued in time to protect his position, where counsel was instructed to represent him at the final hearing, ultimately securing a five-figure settlement.

This case highlights the importance of obtaining robust medical evidence and pursuing court proceedings where settlement offers fail to properly reflect the true value of a claim.

If you’ve been injured in a road traffic accident , you don’t have to navigate the aftermath alone. Our serious injury team provide clear, practical advice and support you through the claims process. Get in touch today by calling 0800 1380458 to find out how we can help.