UK Personal Injury Award of $14 Million Pounds

A cyclist who once competed in the Commonwealth Games has received the UK's highest ever payout for personal injury compensation.

Manny Helmot's career was ended after he was struck by a vehicle during a training exercise in Guernsey in 1998, leaving him with severe physical injuries and brain damage.

His mother Rose Helmot and her partner Ken Jordan launched a road traffic accident claim on his behalf and have now been awarded a sum of £14 million on appeal, the Daily Mail reports.

The cyclist represented Guernsey at the 1998 Commonwealth Games in Kuala Lumpur.

After the accident, he permanently lost the use of his right arm and suffered constant double vision.

The 39-year-old will never be able to cycle again, is registered as partially blind and requires constant care.

Speaking after the appeal hearing, Ms Helmot said she was "thrilled" with the result but claimed no amount of money could make up for the injuries suffered by her son.

"His life was ruined, but at least we can now afford to give him the care he needs for the rest of his days," she told the newspaper.

"All of the money will go into a trust to support Manny for the rest of his life."

Driver of the car Dylan Simon, his insurer Tradex and the company's re-insurers will be required to pay the sum.

The previous record for a compensation payout in the UK was awarded earlier this year to Walsall man Wasim Mohammed, who lodged a road traffic accident claim after a collision left him paralysed in 2006.

Peter Todd, an expert in personal injury law at Hodge Jones & Allen LLP and a keen cyclist himself, comments:

“This settlement will enable Mr Helmot to have the accommodation, care and support to help him live the rest of his life with dignity and security. It will in no way compensate for his devastating injuries but at least he can be confident of his independence and security.”