A COUPLE are seeking compensation of a combined £13 million after they were seriously injured in a crash which also killed a man in Shropshire.
Eric Stephani, a US citizen who was living in the Llandegla area and was understood to have been working with the RJAH hospital in Gobowen, died after his Honda Civic vehicle struck a Fiat Tipo car on the A5 in Shropshire on November 26, 2023.
Matthew Greenwood-Nimmo and Tessa Shaw, the driver and passenger of the Fiat Tipo respectively, both sustained serious injuries from the crash, and spent two weeks in hospital before being discharged.
Mr Greenwood-Nimmo and Ms Shaw are a couple who live with their child in Melbourne, Australia, and both work at the city’s university.
Following a hearing in July, the High Court ruled on Wednesday (October 28) that the compensation claims can be pursued through the English and Welsh courts.
An application from Mr Stephani’s mother, Alexandra, who lives in America and is administering her son's estate, that the case should be transferred to Australia was refused.
The court heard that Ms Shaw sustained “significant and extensive” injuries in the crash, including severe compression of her spinal cord, while Greenwood-Nimmo’s were described as “serious,” including a possible jaw fracture.
Ms Shaw is seeking £9,618,545.17 in damages, comprising case management, accommodation and care costs, lost earnings, and future loss.
Mr Greenwood-Nimmo is claiming £3,468,871.89, including lost earnings, holidays, medical treatment, and aids and equipment.
Deputy High Court Judge Andrew Kinnier KC wrote in his judgment: “Mr Stephani’s negligence was committed while he was driving on the A5 in Shropshire.
“Since the claimants returned (to Australia) in January 2024, they have received medical treatment and extensive care and rehabilitation in Australia.
“In summary, the accident happened in England, and the claimants sustained their injuries and initial losses here.
“In the circumstances, I am satisfied that the claimants have demonstrated that England and Wales is clearly and distinctly the appropriate forum in which to try their claim.”
The trial is expected to last three to four weeks.
Following Mr Stephani’s death, his family said they will miss him “tremendously”.
A statement added: “Being able to get outdoors, particularly on rocks or on his bike, had a hugely positive impact on Eric's mental health, as did being able to share his experiences with like-minded people who could relate to him and offer support.”
More than $1,500 was raised in his memory in aid of three organisations; North East Wales Search & Rescue, Memphis Rox Climbing and Community Centre; and Mandem Meetup, a UK-based men's mental health support group.
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