Victim ‘partly at fault’ for car chase death
An accident claim appeal was bruised last week, after the family of a girl who died in a police chase, were told that the car accident was partly her fault.
The ruling announced that the driver was 60% responsible, going against a civil court verdict that Kent Police were totally to blame. As a result, the relatives are now considering appealing to the House of Lords.
Their solicitor, said: “The family has suffered rough justice. Rachel is not here to defend herself, which has meant that the claim against the police has been an uphill struggle from the beginning.”
The 29, from Kennington, died after her Ford Fiesta was struck by a speeding police car answering an emergency call on the A28 at Bethersden.
The case has dwindled for over a year, with one ruling stating the police driver was 100% at fault. However, Kent Police fought against this statement and the Court of Appeal in London finally announced its verdict.
The Independent Police Complaints Commission and the Crown Prosecution Service had also concluded that the police driver, was not at fault.
Assistant Chief Constable, said: “Kent Police’s thoughts continue to be with the victims family and everyone who was involved, including the police officers who were answering an emergency call when the collision occurred.”
Updated on 29/06/2009