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This article was published on November 19th, 2014
A man has been successful in his compensation claim following a boating accident when he was 13 years old.
The claimant, who is now 23, suffered massive head injuries after his boat was hit at high-speed by a power boat during a race. He was co-driving a boat with a 10-year-old at the time of the accident, which came to a sudden stop when turning at a marker buoy. Unfortunately the boat, which directly followed behind, ploughed into them and went over the top of the boys head causing a serious head injury. He was wearing a helmet at the time of the accident but it came off with the impact leaving him unconscious in the water.
He was airlifted to hospital following the accident and lay in a coma for three weeks. As a result of his injuries he has problems with mobility and also has emotional issues. In spite of his catastrophic brain injury, the claimant, with the continued support of his parents, has now completed a college course and was also chosen to be a torch bearer for the 2012 Olympics.
His parents are delighted with the settlement and said:
“Winning this much-needed compensation marks the beginning of a new chapter for Ben and his family; putting an end to what has been an extremely difficult and trying nine and a half years for them all. It has been a long battle to obtain a just settlement for Ben who requires support and rehabilitation for the remainder of his life due to his catastrophic injuries. I am extremely pleased and reassured to know that Ben now has the security to meet his needs, allowing him to move forward and face the future with confidence.”
The Royal Yachting Association, who organised the race, admitted liability for the accident and agreed to pay a sum of £5.5 million to the young man and legal costs of £1 million.
If your loved one has suffered a catastrophic injury then we are ideally positioned to help. Here at Thorneycroft solicitors, we are dedicated to ensuring those responsible for accidents are made accountable to ensure the terrible tragedies don’t happen again to someone elses son, daughter, mum or dad.
We offer a free initial interview in order to review your specific circumstances and assess the viability of your catastrophic injury claim.
To speak to one of our specialist team call us now on FREEPHONE 0800 1979 345, or complete our simple enquiry form and we can call you back at a time to suit you.