Thompsons secured £7,710 in compensation for a passenger who suffered chest and abdominal injuries after a collision involving three vehicles near Sutherlands Grove forest in Argyll and Bute. The claim was pursued after the injured passenger was referred to Thompsons through her husband’s union.

What happened

In September 2019, the claimant was travelling as a passenger in her husband’s car on a forest road near Sutherlands Grove, close to Oban.

Their vehicle was stationary at a junction while waiting to join the A828. Two vehicles were approaching from the right. The lead vehicle indicated that it was turning left into the forest park road.

However, the vehicle behind it, a Volvo V70, failed to slow down and collided with the rear of the turning car. The force of the impact pushed the car forward into the claimant’s vehicle.

The Renault in which the claimant was travelling sustained significant damage. The driver’s side door, front wing and wheel were badly damaged and the car was rendered undriveable.

Police attended the scene of the accident and the third-party driver admitted liability.

Injuries and Impact

Although the claimant had been wearing a seatbelt at the time of the collision, she sustained several injuries.

These included injury to her sternum and abdomen, sore ribs and a bruised chest. She also suffered bruising to her left leg and wrist.

The injuries affected her mobility and made it difficult for her to sleep.

Medical evidence indicated that she was likely to experience long-term chest, thoracic and right shoulder pain.

Legal Approach

Thompsons Solicitors Scotland pursued a compensation claim against the third-party driver’s insurer on behalf of the claimant.

Liability for the accident was admitted by the defender’s insurer.

Outcome

The defender’s insurer made a pre-litigation settlement offer of £7,710 in compensation.

After discussing the offer with Thompsons, the claimant confirmed that she was happy to accept the settlement.

Thompsons secured £7,710 in compensation for the claimant and the case was settled on 22 February 2021.

What this case shows

This case highlights how passengers can suffer injuries even when they are not responsible for the events leading to a road traffic collision.

People injured as passengers in similar incidents may be able to pursue compensation through motor accident claims. Thompsons can often assist clients through the claims process under a No Win No Fee agreement.

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