Settlement for school boy injured whilst at school

The client was in his final year of school and, as part of his education, attended a programme at a local college for two days each week, where the accident occurred.

The client was permitted to use a petrol go-kart that was kept on site. He was not provided with any training or personal protective equipment. While driving the go-kart, he lost control and collided with a fence, sustaining a life-changing injury to his right leg. Liability for the accident was not disputed.

The client suffered an open fracture to his right leg. He was taken to the Major Trauma Centre at St George’s Hospital, where he was assessed and underwent surgery the day after the accident. External fixation was applied to repair the limb.

The external fixator remained in place for approximately four months before being removed. The client was then placed in a cast while continuing his recovery, but he was left with a significant leg length discrepancy.

Following a review by a lower limb orthopaedic expert, the client was referred to a treating surgeon who recommended further surgery to correct the discrepancy. A second external fixator remained in place for nine months. Although the leg length discrepancy was successfully corrected, the client continued to experience significant pain and discomfort in his ankle and hindfoot.

Unfortunately, the long-term outlook was poor. The options available were further surgery or an ankle fusion, neither of which appealed to the client.

Given the admission of liability, all parties adopted a collaborative approach from the outset. A case manager, Caroline Wright of Ainscough Associates, was appointed under the Rehabilitation Code.

The defendant’s insurers remained focused on supporting the client’s rehabilitation and funded significant intervention, including private orthopaedic treatment and surgical procedures.

Alongside the physical impact of his injuries, the client experienced a decline in his mental wellbeing. He felt he was being left behind by his peers because he was unable to work or take part in social activities.

The client decided he wanted to bring the claim to an end and move forward with his life. Tim Kirfield was instructed to invite an offer of settlement.

Following a short period of negotiation, a substantial six-figure settlement was agreed, allowing the client to put the case behind him.

If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident that was someone else’s fault, our serious injury specialists can help you access the support, rehabilitation and compensation you may need to move forward. Contact Fletchers for a free, no-obligation conversation about your circumstances.