Cyclist Awarded £140,000 After Collision with Car in Helensburgh

Thompsons secured £140,000 in compensation for a cyclist who suffered a serious foot injury after being struck by a car while riding through Helensburgh in Argyll and Bute. The claim was pursued after the injured cyclist, a Unite member, was referred to Thompsons following the road traffic accident.

What happened

The claimant, Mr Leslie Lafferty, was an experienced cyclist and regular gym-goer. On the morning of 28 July 2016, at around 6:30 to 6:45 am, he was cycling along West Argyll Street in Helensburgh, a route he knew well as a local resident.

As he approached the junction with James Street, a third-party vehicle pulled out from the left and collided with the back wheel of his bicycle.

Mr Lafferty attempted to swerve to avoid the collision, but the impact could not be avoided. He was knocked to the ground as a result of the crash.

Injuries and Impact

Emergency services attended the scene of the accident and Mr Lafferty was taken to hospital.

He sustained a fractured talus bone in his right foot, which forms part of the ankle joint. He also suffered cuts and bruising to his back, arms, toes and legs.

Mr Lafferty remained in hospital for several days and later required five surgical procedures in an attempt to repair the fracture, including surgery to insert a plate and screws. His foot was also placed in a cast during the recovery period.

Medical advice confirmed that he would not regain full movement in his foot and that some symptoms would be permanent. He continues to experience ongoing pain in his ankle and was also diagnosed with adjustment disorder and depressed mood following the accident.

The long-term impact of the injury was particularly concerning because Mr Lafferty worked as a plumber for Babcock Marine at Faslane Naval Base, a role that required him to regularly use ladders.

Following the accident, he initially received full pay while absent from work, which reduced to half pay after six months. He also lost income from overtime payments.

Legal Approach

Thompsons Solicitors Scotland pursued a compensation claim against the third-party driver who caused the accident.

The driver admitted liability and was later charged with and convicted of careless driving. Despite this admission, Thompsons still required to raise court proceedings in order to progress the claim.

Outcome

During the course of the litigation, the defender’s lawyers made a settlement offer of £140,000.

After discussing the offer with Thompsons, Mr Lafferty confirmed that he wished to accept the settlement.

Thompsons secured £140,000 in compensation for the claimant and the case settled on 18 July 2022.

What this case shows

This case highlights the serious and long-term consequences that can result from cycling accidents caused by negligent driving.

Cyclists injured in road traffic incidents may be able to pursue compensation through accidents to cyclists claims. Thompsons can often support clients through the claims process under a No Win No Fee agreement.

Anyone seeking advice after a cycling accident can contact Thompsons to discuss their situation.