Taxi crash trauma case 'settled'

Richard Jones had applied to study at Cambridge University

A case in which a taxi driver planned to sue the parents of a pedestrian, who died in an accident with his car, has been settled out of court.

Malcolm Wright, 41, said he suffered trauma in the accident.

Richard Jones, 18, died after being struck by the taxi in his home village of Dyserth in 2000. His father said the family was upset by the legal case.

Mr Wright's solicitor confirmed on Monday that the case was settled out of court.

Richard had been walking home to the family farm from a works Christmas party when he was struck by the car driven by Mr Wright, from Rhyl, north Wales.

An inquest jury returned a verdict of accidental death after hearing the details of the collision.

No action was taken against Mr Wright after the accident.

What happened to us is just about the hardest thing a family can go through George Jones, Richard's father

Richard's father, George, 54, had said he was unaware the case had been resolved, adding that he was upset the legal action was taking place.

Mr Jones told BBC Wales that the driver's suffering could not compare to what his family had experienced.

"He probably has suffered trauma, I've no doubt he has, but that's nothing compared to what me and my wife and family have suffered," said Mr Jones.

"We've lost one of the most important things in our lives - his trauma is nothing compared to what we've been through."

The accident happened half a mile from Richard's home on a farm

But in a statement released on Monday afternoon, Mr Wright's solicitor, Brian Camp, said: "This case has been settled with the insurance firm without going to court.

"A compromise was agreed on Mr Wright's instructions.

"He was determined to settle this without going to court, so as to avoid additional trauma for all concerned.

"Malcolm Wright has every sympathy for Mr and Mrs Jones. They have suffered a tragic loss.

"Their lives will never be the same again.

"The problem is that nor will his. This has caused unbelievable grief to a man who did nothing wrong."

Richard had applied to Cambridge University after gaining four A grade A levels and was working at a Prestatyn engineering firm as part of a year away from his studies.

Richard's father said he was upset at the claim

The accident happened in the early hours of 23 December 2000.

He suffered serious head injuries and died in hospital on Christmas Eve.

His parents made the decision that his organs should be donated for transplant purposes.

The inquest jury heard how he had stepped into the road before the collision with Mr Wright's taxi.

Mr Jones added: "On the one hand, the thought of that man making a single ha'penny from Richard's death makes my insides boil with rage.

"What happened to us is just about the hardest thing a family can go through.

"On the other hand, I suppose a settlement would at least put a stop to this and allow us to grieve in peace.

"I know I should let it go, for the sake of my sanity, but it is so difficult."