Client awarded £2,500 after petrol station injury dispute

Despite limited initial evidence, Chartered Legal Executive, Nina Haddock was able to guide our client through the claims process, following an injury at a petrol station. Although the injuries were minor, our support ensured the client received fair compensation despite the early obstacles.  

What you’ll find in this case study:

• How the client was injured by debris after a car hit a petrol pump. 

• How difficulties around evidence and claims from the defendant’s insurer made this a particularly challenging case.  

• Details of how we supported the client, advising on evidence and obtaining crucial police and medical reports. 

• Case progression – overcoming insurer disputes and establishing liability with professional evidence. 

• Medical findings, including confirmation of minor but genuine injuries. 

• A successful outcome following negotiation resulting in a fair settlement despite the initially weak position. 

Overview 

Our client was refuelling his car at a petrol station, when another vehicle entered and hit a petrol pump. The collision caused a piece of plastic to fly up and hit the client on the head. The client suffered headaches, minor neck pain, blurred vision and mild anxiety. The case was handled by Chartered Legal Executive, Nina Haddock. 

Evidence difficulties 

The defendant admitted to hitting a small sign but denied causing any damage. Unfortunately, the case was hampered due to a lack of supporting evidence and the injuries being relatively minor. Despite the incident occurring at a petrol station, CCTV footage couldn’t be secured. Additionally, the client was unable to provide witness details from staff who had observed the incident, adding to the challenges of the case. 

Case progression 

The client later provided images from the scene, showing extensive damage to both the petrol pump and the defendant’s vehicle. Despite the evidence, the defendant’s insurer continued to dispute the claim, arguing that the incident couldn’t have caused injury. 

Crucially, a police report was obtained, which supported the client’s version of events, and this evidence prompted an admission of liability from the defendant’s insurer. 

The medical report confirmed the client had suffered a neck injury lasting approximately two weeks, accompanied by headaches and some very minor blurred vision for a few days. The injuries were limited, and there was concern that the claim might fall below £1,000. 

Case outcome 

Despite the minimal injury and initial difficulties surrounding evidence, the matter was resolved with an offer of £2,500, which the client accepted. The case illustrates the importance of persistence, timely provision of evidence, and the value of professional reports, even in seemingly minor claims. 

If you were injured in a public place and need legal support, contact our team today.