September 29, 2025
Lagden v O’Connor [2003] UKHL 64
An impecunious claimant, Mr Lagden, hired a car on credit at a higher rate following a non-fault accident. The House of Lords held he could recover the full cost, as his lack of funds made the more expensive credit hire a reasonable step. Facts The respondent, Mr Lagden, had his car damaged due to the negligence of the appellant, Mr O’Connor. Mr Lagden required a replacement vehicle whilst his was being repaired. Due to his poor financial circumstances (being unemployed and on benefits), he was unable to afford the ‘spot rate’ for a hire car from a standard rental company.
