Angela Menzies almost died in a head-on crash in the summer of 2016, breaking both legs, both her knees and hips and nine ribs. She also fractured her pelvis, sternum, right clavicle, and toes, punctured her lung and suffered tissue damage to her stomach, injuries which left her facing a long, difficult and uncertain road to recovery.
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The legal process
Instructed to represent Mrs Menzies in a personal injury claim, specialist solicitor Samuel McFadyen has worked alongside the insurers of the defendant (driver of the other vehicle), to provide a full package of support. This saw an agreement reached at an early stage that the insurers would fully fund rehabilitation costs and ensure an extensive package of physical, psychological and financial support was provided.
Support Provided
Mrs Menzies spent more than four months in hospital due to the serious injuries she sustained and when returning to her home she was confined to her living room sofa.
A dedicated team of specialists was established (solicitors, insurers, therapists and case managers) to oversee her care, with an early focus placed on helping he become less reliant on her family supervising her and to help her with coping strategies to manage her stress, depression and anxiety levels.
The aims were to help her reach a stage where she could prepare a drink and snack for herself, be able to go to the toilet upstairs and downstairs safely and independently and be able to wash and dress herself following her road traffic accident.
Adaptations were made to the family home, such as a door widening between the lounge and kitchen, whilst a specialist chair on wheels, which raised and tilted, allowed her to work at her kitchen top and be in a supported standing position. New support rails were installed along the outside path of her home, by the front door and on the staircase inside, all aimed at helping her develop more independence.
Mrs Menzies continues her recovery (August 2018), two years after her accident and is now able to walk short distances on crutches.
She has started physiotherapy sessions as all required surgery is now complete, has been provided with a new electric chair for use outdoors and plans are being made to help her return to driving. Financial support is being provided for her to look at buying a bungalow.
Hudgell Solicitors comment
Solicitor Samuel McFadyen said:
Angela is an inspirational person. I am pleased we have been able to provide support to her and that we continue to do so. She has always been aware that she faces a long and difficult time ahead, but she has people providing support and help in all areas, giving her the best possible chance of making the best possible recovery.
Client comment
The client added:
As soon as Sam was instructed to my case, all of a sudden, everything I needed was taken into consideration and provided for me. The support has made a massive difference, and when things like that start to happen, you do start to look forward with more positivity. You appreciate people are there for you and helping you.
