A truck driver has been ordered to pay €665,713 in damages caused when he crashed into a car, destroying the driver's professional life and rendering him practically home-bound.

The incident happened on February 15, 2012 when the car stopped at traffic lights in Paola and the truck crashed into its back, pushing it a considerable distance. The truck driver, Lawrence Agius, had seen the lights on amber and did not think the car in front of him would stop. 

As a result of the collision, the car driver, Trevor Grech, suffered serious head injuries including considerable loss of vision, which meant he had to give up his job as information architect at government IT agency Mita. Mr Grech was rendered unemployed and practically homebound, dependant on his family for help even to go up the stairs or to send an SMS. 

Such was his plight that his father, who had been about to retire, stayed in his employment to support his son. Mr Grech also had to give up his sports and dance activities and even had to work sunglasses at home. He now works for only 10 hours a week with the Foundation for Information Technology Accessibility, which seeks to make IT available to people with vision problems.

The court heard that Mr Grech had been paid by an insurance company for his car as well as well as €15,000 for immediate medical expenses, but no agreement was reached on further compensation since Mr Grech's demands were seen as exaggerated. 

In considering compensation, including loss of earnings, Mr Justice Grazio Mercieca considered that Mr Grech was just 35 at the time of the accident with a gross salary of €32,188 and very good prospects of promotion. He was likely to have continued to work till turning 65.

The court deducted current income but contrary to other judgments, it did not deduct part of the compensation because of the granting of a lump sum, pointing out that bank interest was currently negligible. It also made a provision of €30,000 for claims for future care.

The victim was assisted by lawyer Simon Galea Testaferrata.

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