Stewarts has commenced litigation in the High Court on behalf of a neurosurgeon who sustained life-changing injuries on a snowmobiling trip arranged by McLaren Automotive Events Limited. The incident took place within the Arctic Circle in northern Finland in February 2020.
This exclusive, luxury holiday was marketed as the ‘Pure McLaren Arctic Experience’. McLaren invites owners of its supercars to “join us and your fellow McLaren owners for exceptional events that will not only enthral and delight but also make you feel a real part of the McLaren family”.
The main focus of the holiday centred on an ‘ice-driving’ experience. Following instruction, guests would drive McLaren supercars on a frozen test circuit. McLaren also offered guests the opportunity to take a guided snowmobile trip.
Neurosurgeon Andrew Cannestra and his partner took part in a snowmobile excursion on the afternoon of 2 February 2020. The trip involved two snowmobile guides leading them through snow-covered woodland areas. The trip culminated in Mr Cannestra losing control of his snowmobile on a sharp bend and crashing into a tree.
It is alleged in the High Court proceedings that before setting off on the trip, the snowmobile guides failed to provide Mr Cannestra with adequate instruction on how to operate the snowmobile. During the trip, one of the guides decided to change the power mode of Mr Cannestra’s snowmobile to a higher setting than was appropriate for his ability as a beginner. It is alleged the guide then failed to guide Mr Cannestra safely around the remainder of the course. Instead, he led him at a speed that was too high for a beginner attempting to traverse through twisty wooded terrain in very low light.
Mr Cannestra lost consciousness immediately following the crash. He was eventually taken to Oulu Hospital and subsequently Lapland Central Hospital for in-patient treatment before being repatriated to the United States.
Mr Cannestra suffered serious and life-changing injuries in the incident. Mr Cannestra is a neurosurgeon in his home state of Florida. Outside of practising surgery, his work portfolio includes consulting with surgical companies on technological advances in surgical equipment, providing expertise as a medico-legal expert in the United States and lecturing around the world on the latest surgical techniques.
Stewarts’ International Injury department, headed by Julian Chamberlayne, has extensive experience in securing compensation for life-changing injuries suffered in accidents abroad.
Julian comments: “Snowmobiles and quad bikes are powerful vehicles. We have acted for numerous people who have sustained life-changing injuries on such vehicles after putting their trust in holiday companies that organise what are meant to be fun excursions. We will strive to ensure that Andrew is fully compensated for his injuries and the consequent impact on his impressive career.”
You can find further information regarding our expertise, experience and team on our International Injury page.
If you require assistance from our team, please contact us.
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