Farm insurer pays £10,000 to biker who skids on muddy road

A woman who was injured when her motorcycle skidded on mud left by farm vehicles has been awarded £10,000 in compensation.

The accident took place in October 2013 when Carrie Dickinson, 18, was riding her bike near her home in Belton, South Yorkshire. 

See also: Mud on the road: A farmer’s responsibility explained

The mud caused her to lose control of the bike and she landed on her head and shoulder.

Miss Dickinson suffered a broken collarbone, cuts, bruises and had severe concussion.

National law firm Hudgell Solicitors represented Miss Dickinson, alleging that the farmer had caused or permitted the highway to become or remain in a dangerous, defective condition, and a trap to anyone in that area.

It also alleged the farmer had failed to fence, guard or warn Miss Dickinson of the hazard, and failed to remove the mud, causing injury, loss and damage.

The farmer’s insurer admitted to a breach of duty having left the mud on the road.

Rebecca Cone of Hudgell Solicitors said that the case was unusual because despite the photographic evidence showing the mud on the road the firm still had to prove the farmer was negligent in not removing it.

“We initially went to the local council, but it was not their responsibility and we investigated further,” Ms Cone told the Yorkshire Post.

“I was pleased that the insurance company came back and admitted liability [for the farmer] so quickly.

“Although Carrie suffered a broken collarbone, discomfort and injury, we are so pleased to have secured such a positive outcome for her,” she added.