A GP, who sustained serious neck and back injuries after his car was in collision with a stray horse, has been granted a £560,238 award for injury caused by colliding with a horse.
Thomas Breslin, aged 46, was driving along the road outside his home town when the accident happened in January 2007. The horse, which had escaped from the field it was being held in, collided with his car with such impact that the animal landed on the roof of Dr Breslin´s car – trapping him inside for more than two hours until he was released by emergency services.
Mr Justice Eamon de Valera at the High Court heard that as a result of the incident Dr Breslin had to undergo surgery on his back and have a plate inserted in his neck. He also suffered psychologically as a result of the accident and was diagnosed with post traumatic stress disorder. The court also heard that Dr. Breslin will only be able to work on a temporary basis due to his injuries and may even have to retire from his practise.
The negligent party in the action was named as Richard Johnston who admitted liability for not securing the horse in the field and the case was before Mr Justice Eamon de Valera for assessment of damages only.
Announcing the award of £560,238, the judge said that it was clear that Dr Breslin would continue to suffer physically and mentally as a result of the incident.