Kevin's Story
When only 16 years of age Kevin was assaulted whilst working in his uncle’s shop. A gang of youths entered the shop with baseball bats and beat Kevin around the head, knocking him unconscious. When he arrived at hospital, a scan revealed a depressed skull fracture, and additional bruising to the underlying brain. He remained in hospital for over a week before being discharged to the care of his family. He was left with severe and persisting headaches, associated with nausea and vomiting, disturbed vision, severely reduced memory and concentration, and dizzy episodes which resulted in him falling over. These symptoms reduced slightly over time; however, Kevin has never been able to return either to education or school. His plans were to attend college and then become an apprentice mechanic. His leisure interests had included playing cricket and football to a very high amateur level. He is now unable to pursue any of these interests.
An Application was made to the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority on Kevin’s behalf. Initially his Application was turned down on the basis that he had not reported the accident to the police. At that point he instructed Barratt Goff & Tomlinson Solicitors. We were able to explain to the CICA that firstly he was in no state to call the police, and secondly the police had in any event been contacted by a bystander and were aware of the incident.
We then attempted to persuade the CICA to obtain expert medical opinion to confirm the extent of Kevin’s injuries. Unfortunately the reports which they obtained were, in our view, inadequate. Accordingly we arranged for reports to be prepared by a Neurosurgeon, a Neuropsychologist and a care expert. These were submitted to the CICA who made an offer in the sum of just over £400,000. On our advice Kevin rejected this and we proceeded to an Appeal where the Appeal Panel awarded him the sum of just under £670,000.
Kevin is a Patient of the Court of Protection and the money was paid directly to him. His mother has been appointed his Deputy to look after his financial affairs. The compensation however has ensured his financial security for the rest of his life.
|
