Our client was driving to work, along a narrow country lane in Dorset. As she neared a bend she was confronted by a bus, travelling towards her and over the centre of the road.

She braked hard but due to the high banks on either side of the road, she was unable to take evasive action and collided with the bus. The bus was speeding and the force of the collision was sufficient to cause our client’s 4x4 to go up the bank, drop back down, spin around and come to rest alongside the bus.

The police and fire brigade attended the scene. Our client had to be cut free from the wreckage. She was taken to hospital by ambulance with internal bleeding.

Our client was treated for injuries to her chest, elbow, neck, back and a ruptured ovarian cyst which required surgery. She suffered from a severe psychological reaction and a fear of driving. 

Our client had formerly competed in show jumping competitions and had taken part in car racing events. The accident had a significant affect on her. She was unable to look after her horse or compete, so eventually the horse was sold.

Living in a rural village became difficult without the ability to drive. Our client attempted refresher driving lessons but this failed so she started a course of cognitive behavioural therapy.

We sent a detailed letter of claim to the bus company and their insurers. They disputed liability.  We obtained several independent witness statements. The insurers offered to settle the issue of liability on a 50/50 basis, with both drivers equally to blame. We advised our client to reject the offer, which she did.

Court proceedings were issued. The claim was defended and the bus company pursued a counterclaim of £1600 for damage to the bus. At trial, the judge found 100% in favour of our client. She was awarded £29,000 in damages and payment of our costs by the bus company.  We acted for her on a No Win No Fee basis.

If you have crashed with a bus or another vehicle on the road and been injured, contact us to see whether you may have a claim.