Multi-million settlement for runner who lost leg following collision with reckless driver
Jennifer Buchanan and Francesca Krauze have secured a multi-million-pound settlement for a woman who had her leg amputated after being hit by a car that mounted the pavement.
Claire*, a keen runner who was training for the London Marathon, was outside her home preparing to go on a 20-mile run when she saw a vehicle being driven erratically towards her. The driver drove onto the pavement, narrowly missing her husband, and drove straight into Claire and her dog, who were unable to avoid the vehicle.
She suffered catastrophic injuries and was airlifted to hospital where emergency surgery was performed to complete a left leg above knee amputation. She had further surgery in the days that followed to refashion her stump and apply a VAC dressing.
The driver of the car was arrested on suspicion of causing injury through dangerous driving the day of the accident. Claire instructed Jennifer to pursue a personal injury claim against the driver and his insurer shortly after she was injured, and her witness statement supported the criminal investigation into the motorist.
Giving evidence from hospital, Claire, 50, said she felt lucky to still be alive considering how violent the crash was. The case was set up within a matter of days and Kate Gibbons, a specialist case manager was instructed. Agreement was reached in terms of the immediate recommendations and funding was secured for 14 weeks in an inpatient rehabilitation facility where she received a range of intensive treatments and therapies, including prosthetics and amputee specialist physiotherapy, pain management and psychology. Her recovery with such early input alongside her determination was remarkable.
Due to her injuries, Claire's family home is no longer suitable as it is not wheelchair accessible. A barn conversion in her village was secured and recently purchased.
Prior to the crash, Claire had a successful career in the NHS and lived a very social and active life. She loved to cycle, go on holidays, have weekends away in the family caravan and spend time with her partner's young grandchildren. Running was extremely important to her, both for exercise and the social aspect of running clubs. She is determined return to her hobbies with assistance.
Unfortunately, Claire is currently unable to work, which will not only have a large financial impact but is a great personal loss as she enjoyed her career immensely. She and her family have been irrevocably impacted by the trauma of the accident and her life-changing injuries. Claire's two children were also at home when she was hit by the car, and they quickly rushed to her side. They have all been deeply affected by seeing her with such shocking injuries and we will be pursuing claims on their behalf.
Jennifer collaborated with the police soon after the accident, and a settlement was reached within the first year which will help Claire to rebuild her life with the specialist equipment and therapy she needs.
Claire said: "It has been a whirlwind, but I do have to say Jennifer and the extended team at Fieldfisher have been amazing guiding me through this new previously unknown territory. Thank you so much."
*name changed
Contact us
For further information about road traffic accident claims and amputation claims please call Jennifer Buchanan on 03304606774 or email jennifer.buchanan@fieldfisher.com or call Francesca Krauze on 03304606512 or email francesca.krauze@fieldfisher.com.
Alternatively
- You can speak to our personal injury solicitors on freephone 0800 358 3848
- email us: personalinjury@fieldfisher.com
- Complete the short online enquiry form
All enquiries are completely free of charge and we will investigate all funding options for you including no win, no fee.