Stratford biker to receive millions for severe brain injuries

by Court Reporter
Monday, July 16, 2012
5:00 PM

A motorcyclist who suffered devastating injuries in a fatal high-speed crash on a country road received a multi-million-pound compensation payout in London’s High Court.

Shazzad Khan, from Stratford, sustained “severe brain injuries” and a shattered right thigh in the April 2007 crash in Dunmow Road, Oxen End, the court heard.

Mr Khan was riding his Kawasaki bike towards the village of Finchingfield when he collided head-on with a Yamaha motorcycle driven by Paulo Barbosa, who died in the impact.

Mr Barbosa had bought the bike on eBay shortly before the tragedy and it was not insured, the court heard. Mr Khan’s barrister, William Latimer-Sayer, told Mr Justice Eady that both men were riding at speeds approaching 80mph – resulting in a “combined collision speed of 160mph”.

Mr Khan’s head injuries led to a an “organic personality disorder” and “significant personality change”, said the barrister, though there has recently been a remarkable improvement in his condition.

He has made a “considerable recovery” and “increased his walking distance”, his barrister added.

At present Mr Khan is a “protected party” due to his mental impairment, but it is hoped that he may ultimately “regain capacity” to manage his own affairs, said Mr Latimer-Sayer.

The case reached court as Mr Khan’s lawyers sought Mr Justice Eady’s approval for a settlement of his case which will secure him “multi-million pound” compensation.

Because Mr Barbosa’s motorbike was not insured at the time of the crash, the damages bill will be met by the Motor Insurers’ Bureau.

Mr Justice Eady approved the settlement – the precise terms of which are confidential – concluding: “I trust that it will bring him a degree of peace of mind”.