On a sunny afternoon in June 2018, Ilabek Avetian was enjoying a quiet moment with his wife in Darndale Park, Coolock. What should have been a peaceful day turned into a life-altering tragedy when a scrambler motorbike came over a hill and landed directly on him. The impact left Mr. Avetian with catastrophic injuries, including a severe brain injury, multiple fractures, and the loss of an eye.
Years later, the High Court approved a €5.2 million settlement in his favour. This case highlights not only the devastating consequences of reckless behaviour but also the critical importance of seeking expert legal representation when navigating personal injury claims. For victims of accidents caused by uninsured drivers, organisations like the Motor Insurers’ Bureau of Ireland (MIBI) play an essential role in ensuring justice is served.
The Accident That Changed Everything
The incident occurred on 9 June 2018 at Darndale Park. Mr. Avetian and his wife were sunbathing when the scrambler motorbike, travelling at speed, crested a hill and struck him. The injuries he sustained were severe and life-changing. He suffered a traumatic brain injury, several fractures, and lost his right eye. The physical and emotional toll on Mr. Avetian and his family has been immeasurable.
Following the accident, it became clear that the driver of the scrambler was operating the vehicle without insurance. This presented a significant challenge in pursuing compensation. However, thanks to the involvement of the MIBI, Mr. Avetian was able to seek justice and financial support for his ongoing care and rehabilitation.
Legal Proceedings and Settlement
Mr. Avetian’s case was brought before the High Court, with Ms. Justice Leonie Reynolds presiding. The defendants included the MIBI, Dublin City Council, and later, the driver and owner of the scrambler motorbike. The settlement amount of €5.2 million, along with legal costs, was ultimately borne by the MIBI, as there was no insurance policy in place for the motorbike at the time of the accident.
Reaching a settlement of this magnitude reflects the severity of Mr. Avetian’s injuries and the profound impact they have had on his quality of life. The compensation will help cover his extensive medical expenses, ongoing rehabilitation, and the support he requires to adapt to his new circumstances.
This case underscores the importance of holding negligent parties accountable, even when they lack insurance. It also demonstrates how critical legal expertise is in securing a fair outcome for victims of such devastating accidents.
Understanding the Role of MIBI
The Motor Insurers’ Bureau of Ireland (MIBI) serves as a safety net for victims injured by uninsured or unidentified drivers. Think of it as an insurance company that steps in when the person who caused your accident doesn’t have insurance or cannot be found. Without the MIBI, many victims would be left without recourse, facing mounting medical bills and financial uncertainty.
When pursuing a claim involving an uninsured driver, the first step is contacting the MIBI. They conduct a thorough investigation to establish liability and determine the specifics of the accident. Once it’s confirmed that the at-fault party was uninsured, your solicitor can submit a claim form to begin the compensation process.
The MIBI exists to ensure that victims like Mr. Avetian are not left to bear the financial burden of someone else’s negligence. Their involvement is crucial in cases where traditional insurance avenues are unavailable.
Why Expert Legal Advice Matters
Personal injury claims, particularly those involving catastrophic injuries, are complex. Victims must navigate medical assessments, legal filings, negotiations, and court proceedings—all while coping with the physical and emotional aftermath of their injuries. Attempting to handle this process alone can be overwhelming and may result in inadequate compensation.
Expert legal representation ensures that every aspect of your claim is handled with care and precision. Solicitors specialising in personal injury law understand how to gather evidence, engage medical experts, and negotiate with organisations like the MIBI to secure the best possible outcome. They also provide guidance on interim payments, which can help cover immediate medical bills and rehabilitation costs while your case is being resolved.
For victims of life-changing injuries, having a dedicated legal team is not just helpful—it’s essential.
How HOMS Assist Can Support You
At HOMS Assist, we specialise in personal injury claims, including road traffic accidents and life-changing injuries. With over 55 years of experience, we have built a reputation for providing compassionate, expert legal support to victims and their families.
Our services include:
- Comprehensive legal representation: We handle every aspect of your claim, from liaising with the MIBI to securing your rightful compensation.
- Medical insight and reports: We work with medical professionals to ensure your injuries are fully documented and accurately assessed.
- Interim payments: We can help you access funds during the claims process to cover medical bills, rehabilitation, and everyday expenses.
- Periodic Payment Orders (PPOs): For those with long-term care needs, we can arrange inflation-adjusted payments to provide ongoing financial security.
We understand that no amount of money can undo the harm caused by a serious accident. However, fair compensation can ease the financial burden and provide the resources needed for recovery and adaptation. Our team is committed to supporting you every step of the way, ensuring you feel informed, confident, and cared for throughout the process.
Securing Justice After a Personal Injury
The settlement in Mr. Avetian’s case is a powerful reminder that victims of negligence should never have to face the aftermath alone. With the right legal support, it’s possible to hold those responsible accountable and secure the compensation needed to rebuild your life.
Personal injury claims can feel daunting, especially when dealing with the physical and emotional toll of serious injuries. But you don’t have to navigate this process on your own. Seeking expert legal advice is the first step towards justice and financial security.
If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s carelessness, don’t wait. Reach out to HOMS Assist for a consultation. Our experienced solicitors are ready to guide you through every stage of your claim with empathy and professionalism. Let us help you take the first step towards recovery.
