Personal Injury - Road Accident Settlement

Jody Follett V David Mellor (2004)
Stoke-on-Trent County Court (Rank DJ) 14/4/2004

The claimant, a 10-year-old girl, received £620 for the lower lip laceration, friction burns and nosebleed sustained during a road traffic accident in August 2000. The claimant experienced anxiety whilst driving on motorways after the accident.

Claimant: Female: 7 years old at date of accident; 10 years old at date of settlement.
Road Traffic Accident: On 19 August 2000, the claimant was a rear seat passenger in a car, when a vehicle being driven by the defendant collided with the claimant's car causing a 'front end' shunt type accident.

The claimant sustained injury and brought an action against the defendant alleging that he was negligent in his driving, which caused the accident.

Liability admitted.

Injuries:The claimant suffered bleeding from both nostrils, a laceration to her lower lip and pain on the backs of her thighs.
Effects:Following the accident, the claimant did not lose consciousness, and her nose bleed settled within a few minutes. The claimant's lower lip lacerations and the friction burns healed within approximately one week. The claimant experienced anxiety when travelling on motorways, however, there were no features suggestive of post-traumatic stress syndrome.

As the accident occurred during the school holidays, the claimant did not take any time off school. She reported no difficulties or restriction with personal hygiene and had no hobbies or sporting activities that were affected by the accident.

Prognosis:The claimant would suffer no ongoing physical symptoms and no residual scarring.
Out of Court Settlement (approved): £620 total damages.

Breakdown of General Damages: Pain, suffering and loss of amenity: £600.

Special Damages: £20.