Lancashire Woman Reveals Relief Over Ruling

Travel law experts at Irwin Mitchell are continuing their efforts to help a Lancashire woman secure justice over the high-speed car crash in Spain which left her life-changing injuries, after a court in the country ruled two drivers were responsible for the incident.

Marilyn Singleton, from Littleborough in Lancashire, is battling to secure funds for rehabilitation and medical costs following the incident, which saw her suffer injuries to both her neck and shoulder when one car collided head-on with a people-carrier driven by her partner and another car collided with the rear.

The crash on a road in Teulada, Costa Blanca, was so serious that the 62-year-old, her granddaughter, niece and friend all had to be pulled from the car.

Following a ruling in an Alicante civil court, it has been decided that two Spanish drivers were responsible for the incident. They have been ordered to pay for the damage caused to the hire vehicle Marilyn was travelling in. Because of this their insurers have now admitted liability for the accident in Marilyn’s English claim.

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"The family is extremely relieved that the Spanish court has found the two drivers of the other cars responsible for the collision, which now means that we can secure funds for Marilyn’s much-needed medical treatment, care and rehabilitation in the English courts.

“We were able to work with our Spanish colleagues to gather vital information to help inform the case and help us in our battle to help Marilyn.

“Not only was the family’s holiday completely ruined by this accident, but Marilyn’s life has been turned upside down and the injuries she sustained now make everyday tasks like housekeeping, gardening and even washing her hair very difficult.

“Despite having surgery to her shoulder and physiotherapy, Marilyn is still unable to carry out all of the requirements of her job as a Liaison Manager (which involves a lot of driving, lifting, and packing of residents’ belongings) to the same extent as she did previously.

“Because of the injuries to her shoulder, Marilyn now faces the risk of developing avascular necrosis, meaning that there may be a reduction of the blood supply to her shoulder, and she may have to endure further surgery. She is also at risk of one day not being able to do the job she loves if her health deteriorates.” Jennifer Lund - Partner

Marilyn added: “The driver of the first car that hit us seemed to come out of nowhere. It was a terrifying experience for all of us, and it was horrific to have to be pulled out of the car one by one. We were all in a complete state of shock as we sat at the side of the road, waiting for emergency crews to arrive.

“It’s hard to believe that a family holiday ended this way for us, and that the events of that day still impact on our lives.  Just doing simple, everyday tasks has been difficult for me ever since as the movement in the whole of my left shoulder and arm is restricted.

“Although nothing can make up for what we’ve been through, we’re so relieved at the court’s finding and hope this means matters will be resolved soon so we can begin to look forward and move on with our lives as best we can.”

If you or a loved on has been injured in a road traffic accident abroad, our personal injury solicitors could help you to claim compensation. Visit our Road Traffic Accident Abroad Claims page for more information.