The Accident

Rachel K., a 28-year-old marketing executive from London, was crossing a zebra crossing in Clapham in July 2023 when she was struck by a Ford Focus that failed to stop.

The impact threw Rachel onto the road, fracturing her right ankle and causing severe bruising to her leg and hip. She was taken to St George's Hospital by ambulance and underwent surgery the following day to repair the fracture with metal pins.

The Disputed Liability

The driver's insurance company (Aviva) initially disputed liability, claiming:

  • Rachel had "stepped out suddenly" onto the crossing
  • The driver had no time to react
  • Rachel was "looking at her phone" and not paying attention

Rachel was shocked. She had been crossing on a zebra crossing — a legal right of way for pedestrians. But without independent witnesses, it was her word against the driver's.

Building the Case

SafeClaim connected Rachel with a specialist personal injury solicitor experienced in pedestrian accident claims. The solicitor:

  • Obtained CCTV footage from a nearby shop, which showed Rachel had been on the crossing for 3 seconds before the car struck her
  • Commissioned an independent accident reconstruction expert, who confirmed the driver would have had clear visibility of the crossing
  • Secured witness statements from two bystanders who had seen the collision

Within 6 weeks, Aviva accepted 100% liability.

EVIDENCE SECURED

CCTV Footage Proved Liability

The solicitor's investigation uncovered CCTV from a nearby shop that clearly showed Rachel was already on the zebra crossing when the driver failed to stop. The footage contradicted the driver's statement and forced the insurer to accept full liability.

The Compensation

Rachel's injuries were serious and life-changing. She was unable to walk unaided for 8 weeks, missed 3 months of work, and required ongoing physiotherapy for over a year.

Final settlement breakdown:

  • General damages: £11,200 (pain, suffering, loss of amenity — fractured ankle)
  • Loss of earnings: £5,400 (12 weeks off work)
  • Medical expenses: £1,800 (private physiotherapy and rehabilitation)
  • Travel costs: £500 (taxis to/from hospital and physio appointments)

Total settlement: £18,900

The claim was settled in November 2024. Rachel paid no legal fees.

Rachel's Advice

"Don't let the insurance company bully you. I was hit on a zebra crossing — I had the right of way — but they still tried to blame me. Get a solicitor who will fight for you and gather the evidence. It made all the difference."