£4.81 million awarded for brain damage caused by medical negligence

Lee was involved in a motor cycle accident. He had suffered head, abdominal injuries and a fractured pelvis.

The following day Lee's abdomen became rigid and he had increased heart rate. No action was taken. Some hours later Lee was reviewed by an anaesthetist who thought that Lee was hypovolaemic because of an intra-abdominal bleed. Resuscitation was ordered. Unfortunately shortly after anaesthetic was induced Lee suffered a massive heart attack.

Lee survived, but was rendered significantly brain damaged.

Liability was initially disputed but Judgement was entered in favour of Lee. An interim payment was obtained to pay for further treatment. Quantum remained in dispute. At trial Lee was awarded £4.81 million. The judge said that Lee was rated “exceptional” by the RAF.