Major Trauma Lawyers has successfully concluded a compensation claim for a child who suffered a fractured skull and ongoing neurological symptoms following a serious fall.
The child, referred to here as LM, was eight years old when the accident happened. The claim involved complex medical evidence from several specialists and careful consideration of which of LM’s ongoing difficulties were caused by his head injury.
The settlement was formally approved by a Judge in May 2026, with the majority of the compensation protected on LM’s behalf until he reaches adulthood.
What Happened?
LM was visiting an indoor inflatable park when he fell backwards from a large inflatable slide and struck his head on the hard floor below.
There were no safety mats or soft cushioning at the base of the inflatable to protect children in the event of a fall.
LM was taken to Sheffield Children’s Hospital, where a CT scan confirmed that he had sustained a right occipital skull fracture.
The Effects of LM’s Head Injury
Following his discharge from hospital, LM continued to experience symptoms associated with his head injury.
These included frequent migraine headaches accompanied by nausea and dizziness, hyperacusis, an increased sensitivity to loud noises, and intermittent tinnitus.
The medical evidence also identified a statistically increased lifetime risk of developing epilepsy as a consequence of the head injury.
Obtaining Specialist Medical Evidence
Given the nature of LM’s injuries and ongoing symptoms, detailed expert medical evidence was required to establish their long-term impact and accurately value his claim.
Major Trauma Lawyers obtained evidence from a number of specialists, including:
- a Consultant Paediatric Neurologist, who assessed LM’s head injury, migraines and risk of post-traumatic epilepsy;
- a Consultant ENT Specialist, who considered his tinnitus and hyperacusis; and
- a Consultant Paediatric Clinical Neuropsychologist, who assessed his cognitive function and behavioural presentation.
An important part of the case was establishing which of LM’s difficulties could properly be attributed to the accident.
The expert assessments also considered pre-existing conditions which were unrelated to the accident. This allowed the accident-related effects of LM’s head injury to be distinguished from difficulties arising independently of the incident.
Negotiating The Child Injury Claim
Liability for the accident was admitted, but there remained significant disagreement over medical causation and the appropriate level of compensation.
In particular, the Defendant disputed the extent to which LM’s care and assistance needs resulted from the accident.
Following the exchange of expert medical evidence and detailed Schedules of Loss, an initial settlement offer was made by the Defendant.
Further negotiations resulted in an increased global settlement offer.
LM’s mother acted as his Litigation Friend throughout the claim and, having received advice on the available options, elected to accept a final settlement rather than pursue provisional damages in relation to the relatively low future risk of epilepsy.
Settlement Approved by The Court
Because LM was a child, the settlement required formal approval by the Court.
In May 2026, a Judge approved the settlement.
The compensation figure is confidential, but included a substantial award for LM’s pain, suffering and loss of amenity at the top end of Counsel’s valuation range.
Compensation was also secured for past care and assistance.
The majority of LM’s compensation was ordered to be paid into the Court Funds Office, where it will be protected and invested on his behalf until he reaches the age of 18.
Supporting LM And His Family
Following the conclusion of the case, LM’s mother said:
“I can’t thank Richard Meggitt enough for the support he has provided to me and my son over the last 8 years.”
Child Injury Compensation Claims
Claims involving serious injuries to children can require specialist evidence and careful consideration of the child’s future needs.
Where compensation is agreed for a child, the settlement will normally require approval from the Court to ensure that it is in the child’s best interests.
Major Trauma Lawyers represents children and families following serious and life-changing injuries, including brain and head injuries.
Speak to Richard Meggitt
For advice following a serious injury to a child, contact:
Richard Meggitt, Partner
Major Trauma Lawyers
Telephone: 0114 267 2470
Email: RM@majortraumalawyers.com
Address: 275 Ecclesall Road, Sheffield, S11 8NX
