Construction worker awarded €1.25 million following drink drive accident

We achieved a €1.25 million settlement for a 55 year old man from Newcastle, who was badly injured in a hit-and-run accident involving a drink driver in County Kildare, Ireland, while working on an overseas contract for a UK based construction company.

Our client sustained a severe traumatic brain injury as well as multiple fractures. The severity of his injuries has also left him with significant physical disability and he is unable to walk without a cane. Due to his level of incapacity, any future gainful employment is unlikely and he will also require regular support from carers.

Fortunately, his employer had put in place an insurance policy, with Chubb Insurance, which provided legal expenses insurance cover to pursue a claim for personal injury and loss. We were instructed by Chubb to represent him in his claim against the driver's motor insurers, and legal proceedings were issued in the Dublin High Court. Given the extent and severity of the injuries, our client had to undergo numerous medico-legal assessments, meaning that a considerable period of time passed before we could enter into substantive negotiations with the motor insurers. The settlement of €1.25 million plus legal costs was agreed in mid-December 2009, and approved by the Dublin High Court, four years after the accident.

This case highlights the need for employers to take out suitable insurance policies that can protect their employees in the event of a major accident.

Return to case studies