Overview
This webinar provides a clear and practical exploration of the most common allegations of contributory negligence in road traffic cases. It guides delegates through the legal principles and the latest case law surrounding issues such as failure to wear seatbelts or helmets, driver negligence, and the responsibilities of passengers and parents.
Through real-world examples and practical discussion, the session helps practitioners understand how these allegations arise, how to assess their validity, and how to respond effectively when acting for injured clients. Delegates will gain confidence in identifying potential contributory negligence arguments early in a case and in advising clients on risk, liability apportionment, and evidential requirements.
Learning outcomes
- Understand the key legal principles behind contributory negligence in road traffic claims.
- Analyse allegations involving failure to wear seatbelts, motorcycle helmets, or cycle helmets.
- Evaluate contributory negligence arguments directed at drivers, including knowledge of incapacity.
- Assess liability issues involving pedestrian contributory negligence.
- Understand when and why allegations may be made against parents for improperly restrained child passengers.
- Advise clients effectively on evidential requirements and the likely impact of contributory negligence on damages.
Part of the three-session series on contributory negligence
This series looks at the law, practice and reality of contributory negligence in detail.
Barrister
Kings Chambers, Leeds, Manchester and Birmingham and 4-5 Gray's Inn Square, London
Gordon was called to the Bar in 1991 having originally qualified and practised as a solicitor. He practices from Kings Chambers, Leeds, Manchester and Birmingham and 4-5 Gray's Inn Square, London. He works in the area of personal injury litigation and in the law relating to civil procedure, limitation and costs. He has a particular interest in issues relating to damages, evidence, costs and procedure.
Gordon is a former executive committee member of APIL and has lectured widely for APIL and CPIL on personal injury and procedure topics. Gordon is the author of Personal Injury Practice Notes (Cavendish); The APIL Guide to Fatal Accidents (now in its 4th edition); the 14th edition of Munkman and Exall on Damages for Personal Injury Death and Periodical Payments the New Law. He also wrote the section on limitation for the APIL loose-leaf and contributes two chapters to Munkman on Employer’s Liability... view full biography