Girl (16) left profoundly deaf after family car accident in driveway settles €1m action

© The Independent

Emma Farrell (now 16), Beverly Rise, Knocklyon, Dublin, had sued her mother Angela Farrell  as a result of the accident when she was just seven months old. She sued through her father Noel Farrell.

She is profoundly deaf, but can lip read and is doing well at secondary school, the court heard.

Her counsel, Patrick O’Connell, said the accident occurred on June 28, 2000, after Emma’s mother parked her car in the driveway of their home.

The driveway slopes towards the house and the baby in the carry cot was placed on the ground, counsel said.  However, the car moved forward crushing the cot against the porch of the house, he said.

A neighbour ran to help and managed to reverse the car off the carry cot.  Emma was rushed to hospital.

Counsel said the baby suffered serious head injuries including a skull fracture  and was transferred to Beaumont Hospital Intensive Care Unit. She was discharged from hospital a month later.

Mr Justice Kevin Cross approved the settlement.

Speaking directly to Emma, the judge told her she was doing well in school and he was sure she will do well for herself in whatever career she chooses.

“You are a joy to your parents, ” he said and allowed for the payout of €5,000 towards “a well deserved holiday.”

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