Driver disappears after we secure payout for hit-and-run victim
What we did
After obtaining the police report, we contacted a number of witnesses and were able to piece together the circumstances of the accident. We were confident Mrs Raval's claim would succeed.
Liability for the accident was disputed. The defendant's insurers argued that their client had given Mrs Raval notice of his approach, and that Mrs Raval's injuries had been caused by her own negligence when she failed to cross the road at a nearby pedestrian crossing.
Despite the initial concerns over the severity of her injuries, Mrs Raval made a good recovery from her injuries and was back at work within months.
We obtained evidence from a variety of consultants, one of whom advised that there was a small risk that Mrs Raval could develop post-accident epilepsy. After seeking advice from a barrister, an amount was included in the settlement offer to reflect this risk.
The defendant's solicitors accepted our offer to settle just days prior to the final hearing.
Background
Mrs Raval sustained injury following a road traffic accident which occurred as she was walking to her car after work. Mrs Raval had crossed a busy town centre road when the defendant drove into her.
Due to the severity of her injuries, Mrs Raval was unable to provide us with any details regarding the identity of the Defendant and/or as to the circumstances of her accident. We therefore applied to the Leicestershire Constabulary to obtain a copy of the police report.
Unfortunately, the police are unable to forward a copy of the report to us as a court case was pending against the defendant. The defendant had been charged with 'failing to stop' after the accident.
Case handler
The case was handled by Sarah Cunliffe, an associate in our Northampton office.
Client testimonial
"The service I received from Sarah Cunliffe was exceptional. She put my mind at rest and I was re-assured that my case was being dealt with promptly. The service was above and beyond my expectations. Sarah ensured that I received the maximum amount of compensation.
"The only concern I have is that despite a warrant being issued for the defendant's arrest, this remains outstanding, as the defendant has disappeared without trace. I'm worried he's still free to drive and concerned he may cause another accident.
"I was lucky, as I had Sarah working on my case. Someone else may not be as fortunate to have such a good legal team on their side."
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