We secured compensation for our client after she was injured in a road traffic collision that killed her horse.
The Collision
Our client, Amanda*, was out riding her horse on a road when a vehicle collided with them. The driver was going in the same direction as Amanda when the collision happened. They didn’t slow down or try to avoid Amanda and her horse.
Amanda suffered injuries that prevented her from riding.
She also suffered severe psychological trauma as a result of the collision. She was there when the vet arrived to treat her horse and, tragically, her horse had to be put down at the roadside.
How We Helped
We investigated the circumstances and advised Amanda about making a claim.
We also sought medical experts to examine her injuries. They were able to provide evidence that supported our case.
The driver’s insurer first alleged Amanda had caused and/or contributed to the accident.
We supported Amanda and responded to these allegations, proving the driver's responsibility. To prove this, we referenced the driver’s and rider’s obligations under the Highway Code. This showed that Amanda was following all the rules and advice provided in the Highway Code.
This evidence won us an admission of responsibility. The driver’s insurer finally agreed Amanda didn’t contribute to the accident.
The Result
After the driver admitted responsibility, we secured compensation for Amanda for her injuries. This compensation also helped to pay for treatment recommended to aid her recovery.
The treatment will help Amanda to return to riding at the level she was at before the collision.
Cathryn Godfrey specialises in personal injury claims and equestrian claims. She handled Amanda's case. Cathryn commented: “I’m pleased to able to support my client through this difficult and traumatic experience. My experience as a horse rider and riding on the roads myself helped me to understand the issues and successfully defend the allegations my client faced that she contributed to the incident occurring.
“Horse riders are vulnerable road users and whilst it is always distressing to her about collisions involving horses, I am pleased to be able to help support and my client through the process for a positive outcome for her claim.”
*The name of the client was changed to preserve anonymity.
If you’ve suffered an injury or accident in a public place, you could be entitled to claim too. Contact us today for a free consultation with one of our experts.
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