Successful Personal Injury Claim Following Failure to Inspect and Repair

Jessica Edwards recently secured a successful outcome for her client, Ms X, who sustained significant injuries following an accident at Sovereign Harbour, Eastbourne. 

Despite the Defendant denying liability throughout the duration of the claim, we were ultimately able to achieve a positive result and secure vital rehabilitation support for Ms X during the course of the litigation.

Background

Ms X was travelling in a vessel and was directed to use a pontoon at Sovereign Harbour, Eastbourne in order to disembark. As Ms X stepped from the vessel onto the pontoon, it suddenly became unstable underfoot, causing her to lose her balance and fall backwards into the boat.

It was alleged that the accident occurred due to the poor condition and inadequate state of repair of the pontoon. The pontoons were already under a replacement programme and were subsequently removed and replaced.

As a result of the incident, Ms X sustained multiple serious injuries, including spinal fractures and a traumatic brain injury. These injuries had a profound impact on her mobility, confidence, and ability to work.

Rehabilitation

Despite the Defendant’s continued denial of liability from the outset, we successfully obtained early rehabilitation funding on behalf of Ms X. This enabled us to put in place a comprehensive package of private rehabilitation, including, appointment of a dedicated Case Manager to coordinate all treatment. This package was paid for by the Defendant, allowing Ms X to focus on her recovery whilst we pushed forward her claim towards settlement.

A Case Manager plays a crucial role in personal injury claims by coordinating and overseeing all aspects of a client’s rehabilitation, ensuring that the right therapies and interventions are put in place at the right time. They act as the central point of communication between medical professionals, therapists, insurers, and solicitors, helping to streamline progress and maximise the client’s recovery.

Ms X’s rehabilitation package consisted of physiotherapy, hydrotherapy, neuropsychology and occupational therapy. A full multidisciplinary team (MDT) approach was taken, to ensure collaboratively goals and ongoing progress reviews.

Alongside this the Defendant also funded private scans and consultant appointments, ensuring that investigations were not delayed by NHS waiting times.

This intensive and coordinated support played a key role in facilitating Ms X’s recovery, helping her to regain function and rebuild confidence during the life of the claim.

Outcome

Following persistent litigation, Jessica Edwards secured a successful settlement for her client, despite the Defendant’s consistent denial of liability. The settlement allowed the client to draw a clear line under the litigation process, bringing an end to the uncertainty and stress that often accompany a personal injury claim.

This case highlights our firm’s commitment not only to achieving compensation for our clients but also to ensuring they receive meaningful, early rehabilitation support while their claim progresses. Early intervention is often crucial in promoting recovery, easing financial and practical pressures at home, and helping clients move forward with their lives.

Contact Dean Wilson LLP

If you or a loved one has been injured in a similar accident, please don’t hesitate to contact us to discuss your case with our personal injury team. Our expert team will be ready to provide you with the legal support you need to secure the compensation you deserve. The team can be contacted on 01273 032328 or enquiries@deanwilson.co.uk.