Lost my pension due to injuries
I was hit off my Multistrada 2 years ago and have an ongoing claim for compensation.
I was in the navy for 8 years and was regularly getting promoted. I was medically discharged as a result of my injuries and have been looking at alternative careers. As a result I am set to lose a fair bit of my navy pension. The solicitors for the other driver is asking for a life expectancy report. Why is this needed?
Lance, by e-mail
Answer
To calculate future financial losses such as for loss of pension we need to know how long someone is likely to live. This is usually done by reference to a book of tables called the Ogden tables, which use statistical data to provide what we call a “multiplier” which is how many years we need to multiply the annual pension loss by. The tables take into account everyday health issues that the general population will encounter and so these tables are the starting point and should usually be used.
However, in cases where someone has a pre-existing medical condition that is unrelated to the injuries caused by an accident and which could have a impact on life expectancy, the court will, when the claim is of sufficient value, often allow a life expectancy report to ensure a fair and just result. I have no knowledge of your medical history and recommend that you discuss all this with your solicitor who will have access to your medical records.