Strong Technical Outcome Delivered by Carpenters Group Insurance Team
Carpenters Group has secured the withdrawal of a high-value personal injury claim involving an illegally operated e-bike, delivering a positive result for the client with no damages paid.
The case centred on a claimant who sustained significant injuries while riding an e-bike in circumstances that ultimately proved critical to the outcome. Evidence confirmed the claimant had been travelling the wrong way around a roundabout at the time of the incident and was later convicted of driving without insurance, driving otherwise than in accordance with a licence, and driving without due care and attention.
Working closely with the client, Ticker and their reinsurer, the team moved quickly to establish a clear position from the outset. Early intervention allowed for the prompt recovery of CCTV footage, which provided a detailed account of the claimant’s actions and played a key role in shaping the defence strategy.
A thorough liability assessment found no negligence on the part of the insured driver. While recognising the duty owed by motorists to more vulnerable road users, the team carefully considered the wider litigation risk before confirming a robust defence stance.
Alongside the defence on liability, the team advanced arguments based on the legal principle of ex turpi causa non oritur actio, or, “action does not arise from a dishonourable cause”. The claimant’s illegal use of the e-bike, absence of insurance and licence, and manner of driving formed the basis of this position. It was successfully demonstrated that the claim was closely tied to that unlawful conduct.
Following this approach, the claimant chose to abandon the claim and did not seek to pursue it further. The outcome resulted in no damages being paid and delivered a significant indemnity saving for the insurer.
This result highlights the impact of early evidence gathering, clear decision-making and strong collaboration between legal teams and insurers. It also underlines the importance of applying established legal principles with confidence where the facts support it.
The case reflects the strength of the team’s technical expertise and their ability to deliver practical outcomes in complex claims, while continuing to support clients with clear and considered advice.
