Compensation For Car Crash Brain Injury Victim

A family from Oxford has received a seven-figure compensation settlement in relation to a brain injury suffered by a car crash victim 10 years ago.

The female car accident victim was 11 years old when she was a back seat passenger in a car collision on a road in Oxford.

Failure To Diagnose Condition

Immediately following the crash, the victim, who is now 22, was rushed to the local hospital with pelvis, back and abdomen damage. However, doctors failed to diagnose a ruptured bowel. The contents of her bowel entered her bloodstream and by the time doctors had realised the problem, it was the fifth day since her injury.

Her brain was not receiving enough oxygen and it was thought by medics at the time that the girl would be blind and possibly paraplegic.

Her mother said: “It was just awful. She had a brain scan that showed complete damage.”

The long-term effects of the young lady’s condition have meant that she needs 4 care workers and has seizures as a result of her brain injury. She also experiences memory loss and chronic fatigue.

Family Is Pleased With Compensation Amount

The compensation amount was paid by Oxford University Hospitals NHS Trust who admitted negligence at London’s High Court last week. The girl’s mother explained that it had been a long period in the lead up to receiving the settlement.

The mother said that the impact of her daughter’s condition had had a devastating effect on all of their lives. She added: “I am relieved. It has been a long 10 years. “We are satisfied with the compensation, but it goes without saying that we would much prefer for this to have never happened.

Highlights The Difficulties Of Brain Injuries

The girl’s mother said that she would like her daughter’s case to emphasize the complexities and difficulties relate to brain injury victims. She said: “It affects everything. Sophie makes a very good first impression, which actually becomes a curse because people just do not understand.”

On behalf of Oxford University Hospitals Trust, the Medical Director said that the trust apologised and hoped that ‘the settlement will provide security and greater independence for her in the coming years.’

The girl and her mother are now looking forward to a brighter future for the young lady who is now studying a degree in psychology.

Making A Brain Injury Compensation Claim With Jefferies

If yourself or a loved one have suffered a brain injury through the fault of a third party then it may be possible to make a claim for compensation.  Please call on 0333 358 3034.

Published on 16th February 2015.