Thompsons Solicitors Scotland secured a £26,500 settlement for Rory Donaldson, a visually impaired pedestrian who was struck by a car while crossing the road near Glasgow Royal Infirmary.
Case Summary
This road traffic accident claim was handled by Scott Dryburgh after Rory was injured on Wishart Street, near the junction before John Knox Street, behind Glasgow Royal Infirmary. Rory was crossing the road with his guide when he was struck by a vehicle. Thompsons pursued the claim on his behalf, liability was accepted by the defender’s insurer, and the case settled for £26,500.
Background to the Claim
Rory Donaldson, who is visually impaired, was crossing the road with his guide near Glasgow Royal Infirmary when the accident happened. The pair were already established on the road and had taken care before crossing when a vehicle struck them while turning towards John Knox Street.
Rory was wearing bright clothing and had his cane with him. These details were important in showing that the driver had the opportunity to see him and should have taken greater care.
The collision was a distressing experience for Rory. His guide immediately prioritised his safety, keeping him calm and making sure he did not move until help arrived. Rory was then taken by ambulance to Glasgow Royal Infirmary.
Establishing Liability in the Pedestrian Accident Claim
Thompsons argued that the accident could have been avoided if the driver had been paying proper attention to the road. Rory and his guide were visible, already crossing, and in an area where drivers should expect pedestrians, particularly close to a hospital.
The driver’s response after the collision added to the distress of the incident. Rather than immediately showing concern, she was reported to have told Rory and his guide: “For goodness sake, get up the two of yous.”
Liability was eventually accepted by the defender’s insurer, allowing Thompsons to secure a £26,500 settlement for Rory.
Thompsons’ Specialist Road Traffic Accident Team Secures Compensation
Thompsons Solicitors Scotland are specialists in road traffic accident claims, including claims involving pedestrians, cyclists, passengers, drivers, motorcyclists and vulnerable road users.
In this case, Scott Dryburgh handled Rory’s claim and worked to secure a successful outcome after liability was accepted.
Scott Dryburgh
Scott Dryburgh
“This was a deeply concerning road traffic accident involving a vulnerable pedestrian who should have been clearly visible to the driver. Rory was crossing with his guide, wearing bright clothing and carrying a cane. The accident could have been avoided if the driver had paid proper attention to the road. We are pleased to have secured a £26,500 settlement for Rory and hope it helps him move forward after what was a very traumatic incident.”
Why This Case Matters
This case highlights the importance of drivers taking extra care around vulnerable road users, particularly pedestrians with visual impairments.
Drivers must remain alert at junctions, crossings and busy roads, especially in areas such as hospitals where pedestrians, patients, staff and visitors are likely to be present.
For Rory, the accident was not only physically harmful but also distressing. The quick actions of his guide, who kept him calm and prioritised his safety after the collision, were a powerful example of care and support in an emergency.
Injured in a Road Traffic Accident in Scotland?
Thompsons Solicitors Scotland has extensive experience representing people injured in road traffic accidents across Scotland. Whether you were injured while walking, cycling, driving, travelling as a passenger, riding a motorbike, or using the road as a vulnerable road user, our team can provide clear advice and pursue the compensation you are entitled to.
We can assist with:
- pedestrian accident claims
- car accident claims
- claims involving vulnerable road users
- serious injury road traffic accident claims
- claims where liability is disputed
- negotiations with insurers
If you have been injured in a road traffic accident, Thompsons can help you understand your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.
