Substantial damages won by West Sussex man for brain injuries sustained in fatal collision with a lorry

Posted: 28/07/2015

Josh Humphrey of Bognor Regis has been awarded a substantial lump sum in settlement of his claim for catastrophic brain injuries sustained in a road accident that occurred nearly five years ago. The damages also include payments for the care he will need for the rest of his life. 

Now 21, Josh was just 16 when he was a passenger in a friend’s car on their way out for a day trip. A collision with a lorry in Wisborough Green led to one passenger dying and Josh suffering what was described by doctors as a very severe traumatic brain injury. 

In the months that followed, Josh spent time at various hospitals and rehabilitation units until he was finally fit to return to a specially adapted bungalow. 

Not knowing where to turn, Josh’s mother Steph initially consulted a small firm of solicitors that handled car accident cases. However, as the case went on, it was clear to those caring for Josh that he needed specialist legal advice. Following a transfer of instructions to award-winning solicitor Warren Collins of Penningtons Manches LLP, the case was progressed to a stage where settlement was achieved and approved by the High Court on 27 July 2015. 

Steph Humphrey commented, “We are grateful that this aspect is now over. We are overwhelmed by the support and guidance we have received from Warren Collins and the wider legal team throughout this claim. Since Penningtons Manches took over the case, we have had every confidence that the legal process would deliver justice for Josh. Nothing will take away Josh’s terrible difficulties but at least we no longer have the huge financial worries that arise as a result of brain injury.” 

Commenting on the case, Warren Collins said: “Until the Humphrey family were told by the professionals treating Josh that they could change solicitors, my clients had no idea that this was an option. But changing solicitors is always an option and, in Josh’s case, we essentially had to unpick what had been done and start again. 

“Josh has recovered a substantial sum – but it is not a lottery win. He now has the financial security to provide himself with accommodation, equipment and care that would otherwise either be the responsibility of the tax-payer or simply unavailable to this young man.”

Return to news headlines