Thomas Cook Facing Legal Action After Two Children Die in Corfu
Posted: May 20, 2015
Posted in: Accidents and Sickness Abroad Personal Injury Public Place Accidents Wrongful & Accidental Death 
Thomas Cook is facing legal action after the deaths of two children as a result of two children in Corfu. An inquest found that two children had been ‘unlawfully killed’ when they were overcome by fumes from a faulty boiler at the resort where they were staying.
However, the incident has resulted in numerous people criticising the travel agent for injuries sustained when holidaying with Thomas Cook. It is expected that the high profile case against the travel operator could result in a string of personal injury claims as well as affecting the reputation, and profits of the company.
Failed “Duty of Care.”
A High Court returned a verdict of the unlawful killing of Bobby and Christi Shepherd at a Thomas Cook resort after they were killed by carbon monoxide poisoning in Corfu. It was ruled that the travel company had failed in its duty of care. The parents of the six and seven-year-old blamed Thomas Cook for failing to be aware of the faulty boiler for the death of their children.
A court case, which took place in 2010 found two members of staff, guilty of manslaughter by negligence, with both sentenced to seven years. Thomas Cook said:
“The systems in place in 2006, which were intended to prevent such a tragedy, have since been thoroughly revised and address the criticisms made by the jury”.
“Thomas Cook works with dedicated specialist external health and safety experts to audit holiday properties. The health and safety of our customers is of paramount importance, and we continuously review and strive to improve all our procedures.”
It is understood that Thomas Cook has claimed compensation from the owners of the Louis Corcyra Beach Hotel with the amount being significantly higher than that received by the parents who lost both their children.
Other Hotel Accident Claims
A teacher from South Wales has since spoken out against the company after she suffered a serious electric shock at a hotel in Cuba. Kristine Williams said she was “flung across the room” after putting her hand on a bedside table to pick up a hair brush and was shocked at the state of the accommodation and safety measures in place.
Can You Make A Claim?
Many people are unsure if they are entitled to make a personal injury claim if they are injured when holidaying abroad. However, if you are injured at your hotel complex, on an excursion you booked with your provider or during a holiday service that was provided as part of your package, you will be able to make a personal injury claim and potentially claim damages. If injured you should report the incident and take as many details about the incident. You should potentially contact your travel insurance company and seek medical advice. Ensure that you keep a copy of any medical document or report you receive
Contact Us
If you require legal advice regarding any personal injury claim or if you have been injured in an accident that was not your fault, contact our personal injury team using our online contact form.
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