Overview

A young cyclist suffered a traumatic brain injury, a fractured skull, and other serious injuries after being struck by an unlicensed and uninsured driver operating a mechanically unfit pickup truck. Despite surgery and extensive treatment, his injuries prevented him from pursuing his planned career in policing. His uninsured automobile coverage claim was resolved before trial for more than $600,000.

Key Takeaways

  • Settlement: More than $600,000
  • Accident type: Bicycle accident
  • Primary injury: Traumatic brain injury
  • Additional injuries: Fractured skull, head laceration, fractured right shoulder
  • Resolution method: Pre-trial settlement
  • Notable legal issues: Uninsured driver; lawsuit against the client’s own insurer for uninsured automobile coverage
  • Medical treatment: Shoulder reconstruction surgery, numerous treatments, and therapies
  • Long-term impact: Unable to pursue a career as a police officer

The Case

Our client had recently completed Grade 12 and was preparing to study police foundations when he was struck while riding his bicycle by an unlicensed and uninsured driver operating a mechanically unfit 25-year-old pickup truck.

The collision caused a traumatic brain injury, a fractured skull, a large head laceration, and a fractured right shoulder. He underwent shoulder reconstruction surgery and participated in numerous treatments and therapies as part of his recovery.

Although he received extensive medical care, his injuries permanently changed his career path. He was no longer able to pursue his goal of becoming a police officer.

Because the driver who struck him was uninsured, legal proceedings were commenced against our client’s own insurance company under the uninsured automobile coverage provisions of his policy. The claim settled before trial for more than $600,000.

Why It Matters

This case demonstrates that serious bicycle collisions can have lifelong consequences for young people, affecting not only their health but also their future education and career opportunities.

It also highlights the role of uninsured automobile coverage when an injured person is struck by a driver who does not have insurance.