A retired medical physics engineer has accepted an offer of £5.9 million in compensation following a devastating motorcycle accident. The accident, which resulted in multiple severe injuries, has drastically changed the course of his life, but with the help of Stephen Hay from Gildeas Solicitors and medical professionals, he is now able to look forward to a more secure future.
Stephen applied his usual bespoke service for Mr Allum. After being given initial details by Mr Allum’s family he met with him in hospital and discussed things with his family to assist following his accident.
The Accident Circumstances
The accident occurred while Mr. Allum was in Scotland, celebrating a 60th birthday celebration. The collision left him with a fractured vertebra, multiple breaks in his legs and arms, and broken ribs. These injuries were so severe that he was placed into an induced coma for a period of time.
Mr. Allum was admitted to Queen Elizabeth Hospital, known for its expertise in spinal injuries, which are unfortunately common in motorcycle accidents. Many motorcycle accident survivors suffer back injuries, and Mr. Allum was no exception. He remained in the hospital for three months, receiving intensive care and treatment.
Ongoing care and rehabilitation
During his recovery at Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Director Stephen Hay visited Mr. Allum, ensuring he knew what would be needed for him to receive the best possible care on discharge. Once his condition stabilised, Mr. Allum was transferred to a local facility in England, closer to his family home in South East.
Mr. Allum’s domestic situation required significant adjustments. The family home was unsuitable for someone needing round-the-clock care and a powered wheelchair. Standing at 6’7, Mr. Allum’s wheelchair had to be customised, which also limited the types of vehicles that could be adapted for his use to get out and about when he was able to do so. A more accessible home was necessary. The new home had to accommodate not only Mr. Allum’s family but also provide additional living quarters for a live in nurse as he requires round the clock care. The home identified by agents retained by Gildeas required significant modifications, including ceiling tracking systems to facilitate his movement around the house.
Throughout this process, Gildeas secured interim payments to ensure that Mr. Allum and his family did not suffer financially. This was particularly crucial given his inability to work and the increased costs of hospital visits and care. Admiral, the insurer of the third party, was proactive in agreeing to payments that allowed for the acquisition and adaptation of a new house, along with a specially adapted van. This ensured that Mr. Allum’s transition to his new life was as smooth as possible.
Comprehensive Medical Assessments
To accurately assess Mr. Allum’s losses, multiple medical reports were obtained. These detailed the extent of his physical and neurological injuries, the type of accommodation and equipment needed, and the associated costs. The assessment of nursing care required to support Mr. Allum indicated an annual cost of £350,000, quantification of this allowed Gildeas to ensure he and is family would not be financially impacted by the accident.
Financial and Emotional Compensation
While no amount of money can truly compensate for the loss of independence Mr. Allum has experienced, the £5.9 million settlement provides significant financial security. It ensures his extensive care needs are met and that he can live as comfortably as possible given his circumstances. The settlement also includes provisions for an adapted vehicle, further enhancing his mobility and quality of life.
Stephen Hay, Director
Paul is a highly intelligent and motivated person. I was struck by how big an impact this would have on him but that he would take a pragmatic approach to things. My meetings and discussions with Paul allowed be to identify the issues he would face and what had to be addressed to meet those needs at that point and into the future.
Paul was so involved in his case he even took it upon himself to suggest improvements that could be made to the manufacturers of kit that was being supplied!
When it came to explaining why we were seeking certain amounts of money and the basis for the figures he understood what we were saying. The injuries have changed Paul’s ability to do things physically but his mental abilities are still as sharp as ever. I hope the settlement that was negotiated here will allow him and his family to move forward without having to worry about Paul’s quality of life nor the quality of his care.
In our client’s words
“Stephen assisted at all stages in my recovery, at first assisting my family whilst I was in a coma and getting things set up, then helping arrange for property experts to find a suitable home. Things have not been easy, learning to cope with complete paralysis from the chest down, and the loss of usefulness of my right arm; but at all stages Gildeas and Stephen were available for advice and support. Now I am looking forward to getting home with my family.”
Conclusion
Thanks to Gildeas and the medical experts instructed, Mr. Allum can face his new reality with dignity and hope. As he continues his recovery, Mr. Allum can take comfort in knowing that his financial and practical needs are being met, allowing him to focus on rebuilding his life and finding new ways to enjoy his retirement years.
Gildeas Solicitors have offices in Glasgow and Edinburgh and specialise in personal injury cases, including motorcycle and cycling accidents. We go the extra mile for our clients by providing services such as roadside assistance, vehicle repairs, and hire vehicles. If you require assistance, reach out to our expert team on 0141 331 6070.