London:
A UK court ordered an Indian-origin doctor to pay approximately ₹ 1.41 crore in damages to a schoolgirl who she hit with her luxury car in 2018, causing severe head injuries and health complications.
Dr Shanthi Chandran was on her way to work in Buckinghamshire, driving her BMW i3 Range Extender on Buckingham Road in Bicester, Oxfordshire, when she collided with the then-12-year-old in January 2018.
The consultant physician hit the girl, now 18, who had stepped onto the pedestrian crossing when the light was green for traffic, the Oxford Mail newspaper reported on Saturday.
The Incident
- The collision between Dr. Shanthi Chandran and a 12-year-old occurred at approximately 7:20 am in Buckingham Road, Bicester, in January 2018.
- Dr. Chandran, a consultant physician en route to Milton Keynes hospital, collided with the girl who was on her way to school.
- The impact caused the child's head to strike the nearside windscreen of Dr. Chandran's BMW i3 Range Extender, resulting in shattered glass.
- The girl sustained severe injuries, including a serious head injury, a brain bleed, and a fractured left collarbone.
- According to a police officer, the force of the collision propelled the child's body 11 meters beyond the pedestrian crossing to the entrance of a nearby petrol station.
- Following the incident, the girl underwent intubation and ventilation for three days and remained in the hospital for 10 days.
- She experienced cognitive and psychiatric problems, nightmares, and symptoms resembling PTSD during the first year after the accident.
- Dr. Chandran reported to the police that she was looking ahead when she heard a 'thud,' and her window 'smashed.'
- The girl, now an 18-year-old woman, brought a case against Dr. Chandran, alleging negligence and asserting that the incident could have been prevented if Dr. Chandran had been driving at a safe and reasonable speed.
- Dr. Chandran contended that the girl stepped into the road when the traffic lights were green and maintained a speed of 28mph, below the applicable speed limit of 30 mph and appropriate for the conditions.
- The court found Dr. Chandran primarily responsible for the collision and apportioned liability 60/40 in favor of the claimant.
- The court determined a 40 percent reduction in the initially proposed £225,000 damages due to the contributory negligence of the claimant stepping into the road when the traffic lights were green.
- Deputy High Court Judge Dexter Dias KC commended the claimant's parents for their dignity and restraint throughout the trial, acknowledging the life-altering impact of the incident on the family.
- The compensation amount was determined at the High Court last month, with the judgment published on January 11.
Bicester:
Bicester is a town located in the Cherwell district of Oxfordshire, England. Here are some key points about Bicester:
Geography:
Bicester is situated in the northeastern part of Oxfordshire, approximately 12 miles northeast of the city of Oxford.
It is part of the Cherwell district and lies close to the border with Buckinghamshire.
Historical Significance:
Bicester has a rich history dating back to Saxon times, and it is mentioned in the Domesday Book, a survey of England completed in 1086.
Over the centuries, it has evolved from a market town to a more diversified community.
Economy:
Historically known for its market, Bicester has undergone significant economic changes.
It is home to Bicester Village, a high-end shopping outlet that attracts visitors for its designer stores and luxury brands.
Transportation:
Bicester has good transportation links, including road and rail connections.
The town is served by Bicester North and Bicester Village railway stations, providing train services to Oxford, London, and other nearby towns.
Development and Expansion:
Bicester has seen substantial residential and commercial development, with new housing estates and infrastructure projects contributing to its growth.
The development of Bicester Village as a shopping destination has played a role in increasing the town's prominence.
Bicester Village:
Bicester Village is a designer outlet shopping center known for its luxury brands and discounted prices.
It attracts both local and international shoppers and has contributed to Bicester's reputation as a shopping destination.
Military Presence:
Bicester has a historical connection with the military. Bicester Garrison, located to the northeast of the town, has played a role in the town's development.
Bicester Heritage:
Bicester Heritage is a business campus dedicated to the restoration, servicing, and storage of vintage and classic cars.
The site is located at the former RAF Bicester, a historic military airfield.
Bicester, with its blend of history, commercial development, and transportation links, continues to be a town of significance within Oxfordshire. The presence of Bicester Village and Bicester Heritage adds unique dimensions to its character and appeal.
https://www.ndtv.com/indians-abroad/indian-origin-doctor-ordered-to-pay-1-35-000-pounds-to-girl-she-hit-with-car-4872436#pfrom=home-ndtvworld_diaspora
https://www.oxfordmail.co.uk/news/24047034.surgeon-must-pay-135-000-damages-bicester-crash/
BBChttps://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-oxfordshire-66121540
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