We have recently concluded a case for Mr Paice who was seriously injured in a road traffic crash in July 2006.
Mr Paice was originally represented by local solicitors in the West Midlands. Dissatisfied with the standard of service provided by those solicitors he approached us in July 2007. We agreed to take over the conduct of his case.
On our review of the papers, despite the seriousness of his injuries, we discovered that no medical evidence had been obtained by the previous solicitors. Arrangements were made for Mr Paice to be seen by a number of experts including a neurologist, ENT surgeon and orthopaedic surgeon.
Mr Paice had sustained a head injury which had long term implications for his employment. The evidence we were able to secure established that he was in line for promotion. As a result of his injuries, that promotion was essentially delayed by some two years with a resulting loss of earnings claim and pension loss.
The defendants made an opening offer of £20,000 which was rejected out of hand. In our view, the defendant had failed to take into account the seriousness of Mr Paice's injuries.
Although there had been an admission of liability relatively early on, the case was complex on the issue of value. The defendant had disputed there was any evidence of even minor brain damage, something that was later established by our medical experts. The loss of promotion claim was denied by the defendant despite a formal statement from our client's current employer.
Following issue and service or proceedings, updated reports were obtained. The matter was finally concluded with the defendant accepting our offer to settle of £95,000 plus costs.
The matter was dealt with by Rebecca Smith in the Personal Injury Department.
Mr Paice said:
"I thank you for all the hard work and effort you have expended bringing what has been a traumatic period for myself, to a successful conclusion. At all times Leigh Day, in particular Rebecca Smith, provided clear and concise advice and guidance demonstrating detailed knowledge in a friendly and inclusive manner."
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