Overview
Oatley Vigmond represented a teenage brother and sister who each sustained significant brain injuries after the vehicle driven by their mother was struck at high speed while making a left turn. The siblings’ claims were successfully resolved through mediation for a combined settlement of more than $3,000,000.
Key Takeaways
- Settlement amount: More than $3,000,000 (combined)
- Accident type: Motor vehicle collision
- Primary injury: Significant brain injuries
- Additional injuries: None specified
- Resolution method: Settlement at mediation
- Notable legal issues: Failure to ensure the children were wearing seatbelts
- Medical treatment: Significant ongoing treatment needs
- Long-term impact: Reduced future employment potential
The Case
Our clients were a teenage brother and sister travelling in their mother’s vehicle when it was struck at high speed as she was making a left turn. Because both children were minors, their mother was responsible for ensuring they were wearing their seatbelts before driving.
Both teenagers sustained significant brain injuries in the collision. As a result of their injuries, they required significant treatment and experienced a loss of future employment potential.
The siblings’ claims were successfully resolved through mediation for a combined settlement of more than $3,000,000. The settlement recognized the long-term impact of their brain injuries and their ongoing treatment needs.
Why It Matters
Traumatic brain injuries sustained during childhood or adolescence can have lasting consequences that extend well beyond the initial recovery period. These injuries may affect a young person’s future opportunities, including their ability to pursue employment.
This case also highlights the importance of considering the long-term effects of serious brain injuries when resolving claims involving young people. The settlement provides financial support to address the siblings’ future needs.