Polo Player Catherine Lamacraft Faces £2 Million Lawsuit Over Horse Accident

Polo Player Catherine Lamacraft Faces £2 Million Lawsuit Over Horse Accident

International Polo Player Catherine Lamacraft Faces £2 Million Lawsuit Over Groom’s Injuries:

In a legal battle within the polo world, Catherine Lamacraft, a top international polo player, is confronted with a £2 million lawsuit from groom Elena Thorman.

Thorman claims that her promising Army career was shattered when a horse, owned by Lamacraft, reared and fell on her, causing life-changing injuries.

Background of the Incident:

The incident occurred in July 2018 on the grounds of the Knepp Castle Estate, West Sussex, where Thorman was caring for the horse before a tournament.

Lamacraft’s horse, named Harri, unexpectedly reared and fell on Thorman, resulting in a multitude of injuries.

Liability Admitted, but Disputed Claim Amount:

Lamacraft’s legal team admitted liability for the accident in June 2020.

However, the current dispute centers around the £2 million claimed by Thorman. The lawsuit is filed under the Animals Act 1971, which governs the responsibilities of owners of potentially dangerous creatures.

PTSD and Career Impact:

Thorman, now 25, claims not only physical injuries but also Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

Her barrister, Emily Read, emphasized during a pre-trial hearing that Thorman’s pelvis injuries might lead to complications in future family planning.

Thorman intended to pursue a career in the army or police before the incident, and her legal team seeks to prove this intention.

Supporting Witnesses and Legal Proceedings:

Thorman’s legal team has requested permission to call army officers, including a Major General, to provide evidence supporting her case.

Lamacraft’s defense, represented by Michael Rapp, acknowledged the claimant’s progress but reserved their position on the valuation of the claim.

The judge ruled that there would be a six or seven-day trial to accommodate all witnesses and experts.

The Journey to Trial:

The accident happened at the picturesque Knepp Castle Estate, setting the stage for the legal clash.

Both sides are gearing up for a comprehensive trial, where the extent of Thorman’s injuries, the impact on her career, and the valuation of the claim will be thoroughly examined.

The legal battle promises to shed light on the responsibilities of horse owners and the aftermath of equestrian accidents.

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