Settlements in personal injury claims can include amounts for psychological as well as physical injuries, as demonstrated by a case in which a pedestrian obtained significant damages after she was hit by a motorbike.

The accident happened on a busy street. The woman was helped up from the road and taken to hospital. Fortunately, the motorbike was not travelling at a high speed and the woman suffered only relatively minor physical injuries, from which she made a fairly good recovery. However, she experienced ongoing psychological symptoms. She found it difficult to return to full-time work and her income was significantly reduced.

After she sought compensation, evidence was obtained from a clinical psychologist, who made recommendations for therapy that would be likely to help her come to terms with the accident and resume her pre-accident lifestyle.

Liability for the accident was not disputed and, following negotiations, a settlement of more than £25,000 was agreed.