Our serious injury team regularly sees the consequences of road traffic collisions and works tirelessly to ensure those affected can access support to assist with their recovery.
Among those we’ve helped in recent years is Ainsley, another of the stars of our I Am Able campaign, who suffered a spinal injury while studying at university. But what does the work of a serious injury solicitor actually involve?
David Withers, partner at our Sheffield office, reveals all.
How would you describe your role?
Varied and complex. Many solicitors and insurers commit to specific principles when it comes to serious injury cases. These include determining liability quickly, providing early access to rehabilitation, resolving claims cost-effectively in an agreed timeframe, while building an environment of trust and collaboration.
A key part of our role is to manage our clients’ expectations in terms of recovery, while also arranging funding and introducing them to clinicians and therapists.
How vital is early rehabilitation?
Very. There’s often only a small window where clients can maximise recovery, so rehabilitation needs to be considered swiftly.
Effective rehab can vary though, so we have to consider the injured individual’s situation and all of their needs. This includes everything from housing and equipment to financial security and medical treatment.
What examples of best practice have you seen?
Collaboration with the defendant’s legal team is always important. A commitment to resolving liability swiftly also helps, while the focus should remain on helping our client to recover.
It’s essential that rehabilitation is tailored to every individual, as everyone is different and support has to reflect that. To try to ensure this we also attend multi-disciplinary team meetings with medical experts if possible, as there’s a clear overlap between legal claims and the treatment a person is receiving.
Finally, it’s important to consider other legal services a client may need, such as employment advice or the execution of a Power of Attorney. This is a major issue for us, as we want to address our clients’ legal needs so they can remain focused on what matters most to them.
Which has been your most rewarding case?
It’s hard to say, but a good example involved my client, Simon. He suffered a brain injury in a collision at the start of 2017 and we quickly got in touch with the insurer of the driver to get the claim started.
Although a criminal investigation was ongoing, the insurers agreed to fund rehabilitation assessments and, at a subsequent meeting, committed to putting Simon first.
Simon accepted he was partly responsible for the incident and we were able to agree a reduction in terms of the driver’s liability. Despite this, the insurer continued to totally fund his rehabilitation, which demonstrated their commitment to him.
Early rehabilitation had a major impact on Simon and eventually a settlement was agreed. Furthermore, the insurer also chose to fund all of his rehabilitation for another three months.
This case was very refreshing. Simon has been able to look positively to the future after a devastating incident, and his story is an example of what can be achieved when the individual who has been injured is the absolute priority.
Turning Point – Winter 2019
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- Pedal Power
Specialist equipment helps Jacob achieve his cycling dream.
- I Am Able To Be Happy
World Cerebral Palsy Day is always an important time for us to reflect on what we can do to ensure those with the condition have the same opportunities as everyone else.
- Health and Happiness
A look at how we’ve made mental health part of our agenda.
- Making A Difference
Discover how we helped trainee doctor, Aoife, head off to provide vital neonatal support in Zambia.
- Enjoying Every Day
Jason’s determination helps him get the most from life after a devastating road collision.
- Getting It Right
Our new partnership with Birthrights is all about the improvement of maternity care in the UK.
- A Moving Tribute
The Police Unity Tour is an incredible event which we were pleased to support earlier this year.
- We Are With You
How we’re working with England Rugby to ensure our national heroes inspire the next generation.
- Going For Gold
The countdown is on for the Tokyo Paralympic Games.
- Creating History, Not Repeating It
Two decades on from the white asbestos ban, our experts are still working to help those affected.
- Life Support
How our Court of Protection team provides peace of mind for the future.
- Everyday Superheroes
Remarkable feats of bravery, unbelievable courage and triumph against the odds.
- Introducing Brainwave
A look at how our charity partner is helping children up and down the country to achieve their potential.
Download the Turning Point Winter 2019 magazine
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