At Avize, we understand the devastating impacts an injury can have on every aspect of your life. In Henderson v. Gettle, our team demanded fair compensation for an RCMP officer who suffered physical and psychological injuries as a result of a boating accident.
Background of the Case
Our client, Mr. Brent Henderson, was an accomplished and decorated Staff Sergeant with the RCMP, who had received multiple awards for his exemplary service and contributions to the community over a career that spanned decades.
Mr. Henderson suffered serious physical and psychological injuries in a boating collision that occurred in Tod Inlet, Brentwood Bay, BC on August 1, 2015. Mr. Henderson and his parents were aboard his parents’ boat, having gathered in Tod Inlet with other boaters to watch the Butchart Gardens fireworks during the August long weekend. After the fireworks, Mr. Henderson and his parents were following the stream of boaters slowly making their way out of the inlet, when suddenly a speedboat traveling at an excessive speed and without lights, negligently operated by the defendant, suddenly and forcefully struck them from behind. Mr. Henderson suffered multiple fractures to his ribs and vertebrae, soft tissue injuries to his torso, and psychological injury. He was left with chronic pain and physical limitations, which in turn have caused depression and anxiety. Mr. Henderson was 57 years old when he was injured, and the remainder of his RCMP career was irrevocably diminished, his post-retirement career plans in consulting were no longer viable, and he suffered significant pension losses.
Over $2 Million in Damages Awarded
The defendant who operated the boat that struck the Henderson vessel was charged and criminally convicted. In the civil lawsuit, our team appeared in court and made submissions before Justice Steeves on damages. Using affidavit evidence from the plaintiff and numerous witnesses, as well as reports from five medical experts, we advocated for fair damages to compensate Mr. Henderson for the pain and suffering he has endured, the earnings and pension losses he sustained, and the cost of ongoing and future treatments. Justice Steeves awarded Mr. Henderson over $2 million in damages, including $1.2 million for the loss of future income and over $200,000 for pension loss.
Read the full decision here: Henderson v Gettle, 2021 BCSC 841