HIGH COURT:The High Court has approved a settlement of €100,000 for a boy who suffered head and other injuries after being struck by a car. The settlement was made without admission of liability.
The award was made to Bartosz Zakrzewski, now 11, of Sandymount Avenue, Birr, Co Offaly.
Suing through his mother Monika, he had brought an action against the driver of the car, Caitríona Kelly, South Gate, Birr, arising out of a collision at An Coran Street, Crinkle Estate, Birr, on July 21st, 2010.
It was claimed Bartosz, then aged nine, was cycling a tricycle- type bike on the road when he was struck by the defendant’s vehicle, as a result of which he was thrown from his bike and landed some distance away.
It was alleged that the defendant was negligent in her driving and had acted in breach of a duty of care.
The claims were denied and the defendant also pleaded contributory negligence.
Yesterday, following talks between the sides, Ms Justice Mary Irvine was informed that the case had been resolved.
The judge said she had sympathy for both the family and Ms Kelly, and she had no hesitation in approving the settlement.
Michael Byrne SC, for Bartosz, said the child had suffered a significant head injury, lacerations and a broken leg but he had made a good recovery and he was now doing well at school.
The family were happy with the settlement, he added.