Bicycle accident on foreign holiday in France

A client of McGrath McGrane LLP suffered injuries as a result of a road traffic accident which occurred while our client was on holidays in France. Our client was cycling in the Alps when the bicycle was struck by an oncoming vehicle. As a result of the collision, our client suffered multiple soft tissue injuries. We advised our client that under European Regulations and the adoption of same into Irish law, our client was entitled to bring proceedings in Ireland in respect of a personal injuries claim.

McGrath McGrane LLP initiated the claim on behalf of our client with the French insurers of the vehicle, who contested liability. We made an application to the Personal Injuries Assessment Board (PIAB) on behalf of the client. As expected, given the fact that the accident occurred outside Ireland, PIAB declined to assess the claim and issued an Authorisation which entitled our client to issue proceedings in Ireland.

We issued proceedings in Ireland on behalf of our client against the French driver and owner of the vehicle and their insurers. The case progressed and ultimately the French insurers, through their Irish solicitors, sought to meet to discuss possible settlement of the case. A settlement meeting took place at the Four Courts, Dublin and ultimately the case was settled for a figure in excess of €25,000.00 plus costs.

Many people are unaware that if you have an accident and suffer personal injuries outside of Ireland, it still may be possible to bring the case before the Irish Courts. If you have suffered personal injuries from an accident outside Ireland contact Brian Mc Grane to see if it may be possible to successfully bring a claim. Contact details: bmcgrane@mcgrathmcgrane.ie or telephone 01 8735012.