We recently represented a teenage pedestrian, following a deeply distressing road traffic accident in which a vehicle mounted the pavement and struck them while they were out walking the family dog.
This was a particularly traumatic case due not only to the nature of the collision and the injuries sustained, but also because the family dog sadly died at the scene. Our team handled the claim with sensitivity throughout, ensuring both the physical and psychological impact of the incident were fully recognised.
The Accident
At the time of the incident, our client had been walking along the pavement with their dog when a vehicle suddenly mounted the kerb and collided with them.
The force of the impact was significant and caused extensive damage to the vehicle. Tragically, the family dog was killed in the collision, adding further emotional trauma to an already devastating incident.
Emergency services attended the scene and our client was taken to hospital for urgent assessment and treatment.
The Injuries
As a result of the collision, our client suffered multiple physical injuries including cuts, bruising, facial swelling, neck injuries consistent with whiplash, and injuries to the arm and elbow. They also sustained soft tissue injuries affecting the lower back, pelvis, and left hip, together with reduced mobility in the early stages of recovery.
The Psychological Impact
While the physical injuries gradually improved over time, the psychological impact of the accident became a significant aspect of the claim.
Initially, our client experienced understandable shock and distress following the collision. However, as time progressed, more serious psychological symptoms developed, including ongoing anxiety and fear associated with being near roads and traffic as a pedestrian.
Expert medical evidence confirmed that specialist psychological treatment was required, including Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy — a treatment commonly recommended for trauma-related psychological symptoms following distressing events.
This case highlights the importance of recognising that the effects of serious road traffic accidents are not always limited to the physical. Psychological injuries can often have a profound and lasting impact, particularly where a traumatic event occurs at a young age.
Building the Claim
Our team obtained detailed orthopaedic and psychological medical evidence to ensure the full extent of our client’s injuries and ongoing symptoms were properly assessed and valued.
Claims involving both physical and psychological injuries require careful investigation and expert evidence, particularly where symptoms evolve over time. We worked closely with medical specialists throughout the claim to ensure our client received the support and treatment they needed while building the strongest possible case on their behalf.
The Outcome
We successfully secured a settlement of £30,000 for our client, reflecting both the physical injuries sustained and the significant psychological impact the accident had on their wellbeing and daily life.
We’re Here to Help
Being involved in a serious road traffic accident can be life-changing, particularly for young people and families affected by traumatic events.
At Oliver & Co, we understand that not all injuries are visible. Our experienced personal injury team is committed to ensuring both physical and psychological injuries are properly recognised, supported, and valued.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a road traffic accident, contact our team today for clear advice, compassionate support, and expert legal guidance on your options. You can call us on 01244 312306, email us at law@oliverandco.co.uk or complete our Contact Form and we’ll be in touch as soon as possible.
