A&L Goodbody partner awarded €120,000 over cycling injuries

A partner in one of Dublin’s largest firms of solicitors has been awarded €120,000 damages for injuries sustained after he was struck by a car while cycling to work.

Mr Justice Michael Hanna said Julian Yarr, a managing partner at A&L Goodbody, suffered “very serious” injuries after being involved in a “frightening” road traffic accident on Rock Road, Blackrock, Co Dublin on July 26th 2011.

Mr Yarr sustained broken ribs, as well as injuries to his neck, shoulders and hands, the court heard.

Mr Yarr, Marlborough Road, Glenageary, Co Dublin, had sued the driver of the car, Brian Biggins, of Culleen, Headford, Co Galway.

It was alleged that as Mr Yarr approached the entrance to the Blackrock Clinic, the defendant turned from the opposite side of the road and struck Mr Yarr who was thrown into the air, over the defendant’s car and into the path of oncoming traffic.

It was claimed the defendant drove in a negligent manner resulting in injuries to Mr Yarr.

Liability in the action was admitted and it was before the court for assessment of damages only.

In his judgment on damages, Mr Justice Hanna said it was fortunate Mr Yarr had been wearing a helmet at the time of the accident as his injuries could have been a lot worse had he not been.

Following the accident, Mr Yarr was taken to St Vincent’s Hospital where he remained for eight days.

Having considered the evidence and relevant law, Mr Justice Hanna ruled Mr Yarr was entitled to €120,000 damages.