Compensation can be awarded for the most minor to the most severe accidents. In the case of the most severe accidents, there are some astronomical payouts that have been awarded in recent years. Before we look at them, it’s important to remember that the following cases involved claimants who suffered life-changing injuries and in cases the loss of loved ones.
£23 million – road traffic accident, 2012
A teenage girl who was paralysed in a car crash in 2009 which also resulted in her mother being killed was awarded £23 million compensation in 2012. The teenager was involved in a road traffic accident on the A436 in Gloucestershire with another motorist. Following the accident, the girl was left with severe spinal injuries and grief. The other motorist pleaded guilty to causing death by driving without due care and attention and the teenager was duly awarded a record payout; £23 million in total which composed of a £7.25 million lump sum plus annual payments of £270,000 for the rest of her life.
This payout will of course never replace the loss of the teenager’s mother, but it will at the very least ensure that she doesn’t have to worry about medical bills during her lifetime.
£15 million – medical negligence, 2015 (not yet finalised)
A 12-year-old boy who suffered severe brain damage during childbirth could receive a payout of up to £15 million from the NHS this year, after a High Court judge ruled that the victim’s birth had been negligently mishandled. The final figure is yet to be settled, however it is thought that the victim will receive around £14.6 million, which will make it one of the highest payouts ever awarded for medical negligence in the UK.
£10 million, road traffic accident, 2015
A motorcyclist who crashed into a car that pulled out while he was overtaking was awarded £10 million compensation in 2015. The motorcyclist had been moving past slow moving traffic when a motorist pulled out on him, resulting in a serious collision in 2009. Following the accident, the motorcyclist was left with serious brain damage that resulted in the victim having to use a wheelchair and suffering from severe speech impairment. The Royal Courts of Justice awarded the claimant £10 million compensation as a result; a £4.27 million lump sum and £175,000 tax-free yearly payouts to ensure he gets the proper medical care.
If you are or somebody you know has been involved in a serious accident, get in touch with Accident Advice Helpline (click here) and discuss your case or call simply 0800 689 0500 or 0333 500 0993 from your mobile to discuss your case with an experienced claims advisor.
