At Keenan Solicitors, we recently secured an £8,500 settlement for a client who was struck by a vehicle while walking with her young child in a pram.

Despite clear negligence from the driver, the insurance companies resisted the claim. Through detailed evidence gathering, witness statements, and strong negotiation skills, we successfully obtained a fair settlement without the need for court proceedings.

What Happened?

Our client was walking along the pavement on Upper Newtownards Road near Cyprus Avenue, pushing a pram with her young child.

• A vehicle was blocking the pavement, preventing her from continuing safely.
• She asked the driver to move, but they refused.
• After waiting for the traffic lights to turn red, she carefully stepped onto the road to pass the obstruction safely.
• As she remounted the pavement, a vehicle in the queue suddenly accelerated, striking her leg with a glancing blow.
• The driver was defensive, and police were called to the scene.

Recognising the seriousness of the incident, she turned to Keenan Solicitors for legal representation.

The Case:

1. Investigating the Claim & Gathering Evidence

• Ciaran Keenan immediately began tracing the insurers for:
  • The vehicle that struck our client.
  • The vehicle blocking the pavement, which forced her onto the road.

• While insurers investigated, we:
  • Collected medical evidence from hospital records.
  • Arranged an expert assessment with a Consultant A&E Doctor.
  • Secured a police report to establish the circumstances.

Initially, our client’s foot and ankle injuries were expected to heal within 6-9 months. However, when symptoms persisted, we arranged a further medical review, confirming that:

• Symptoms lasted for 12 months.
• Residual cold intolerance was expected long-term.

2. Overcoming Insurance Resistance

• Both insurance companies were reluctant to admit liability, despite:
  • The police report confirming the accident circumstances.
  • Clear negligence from the driver who struck our client.
• To strengthen our case, we:

• Traced a key witness who saw the entire accident.
• Obtained a detailed witness statement, which proved crucial.

Once presented with compelling new evidence, the insurers admitted liability.

3. Negotiating a Strong Settlement

• With liability secured, we entered into settlement negotiations.
• We successfully obtained an £8,500 compensation settlement, avoiding the need for court proceedings.

The Outcome:

• £8,500 compensation secured for pain, suffering, and long-term effects.
• Liability was strongly contested but overcome with witness evidence.
• The case was resolved efficiently without the need for a court hearing.

Our client was extremely satisfied with the result, receiving fair compensation without prolonged delays.

Injured as a Pedestrian? We Can Help!

If you’ve been struck by a vehicle or forced into a dangerous situation due to negligence, we can fight for your compensation.