£400K Settlement for Cyclist Following Traumatic Brain Injury

Our client was involved in a cycling accident, that resulted in a traumatic brain injury, significantly impacting her independence. Thanks to our involvement, she was able to access specialist rehabilitation and professional support. 

What you’ll find in this case study:

• Details of the cycling accident
• The impact of the client’s traumatic brain injury, including cognitive and emotional effects
• The provision of specialist rehabilitation and professional care
• Legal challenges, including contributory negligence
• Details of the £400,000 settlement

The incident

Our client, a previously independent woman in her 70s, was out cycling when she was hit by a vehicle pulling out from a side road, resulting in life-changing injuries.  

Injuries and impact

As a result of the RTA, the client suffered a traumatic brain injury (TBI), which significantly affected her cognitive and emotional functioning. She experienced: 

• Word-finding difficulties 

• Memory loss 

• Severe depression and anxiety 

• Episodes of suicidal ideation (expressing a wish to “no longer be here”) 

• Periods of extreme delirium 

Prior to the incident, the client managed her detached home and large garden; she also regularly cycled to local shops and travelled on public transport to visit family. However, following the incident, she could no longer navigate the local area alone, and she relied on family for additional care and support, as well as needing help to manage her anxiety.  

The case  

The case was handled by Partner and Solicitor, Claire Hutchinson. As part of the claim, we were able to secure professional support to aid our client’s recovery. This included: a case manager, a regular support worker, a neuropsychiatrist, a rehabilitation consultant, speech and language therapy, and physiotherapy.  

During the case, there were allegations of contributory negligence due to our client not wearing a helmet, as well as arguments surrounding the client’s life expectancy.  

The outcome 

Despite these complexities, Claire successfully fought the case, recovering a substantial settlement of £400,000, which was double the defendant’s initial offer.  

The compensation will enable the client to fund her own care and support needs, and to ensure she can access private psychiatric help to monitor and medicate her low mood and anxiety.