Pre-Existing Conditions and Motor Vehicle Accidents: Murphy v Madill Unpacked
In this insightful episode of P.I. Case Note, Michelle Wright examines the complex Supreme Court of Queensland decision in Murphy v Madill and others [2025] QSC 103, which demonstrates the significant challenges plaintiffs face when pre-existing psychiatric conditions intersect with motor vehicle accident claims. The case involved Mr. Murphy, who suffered injuries in two separate accidents while managing autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and complex PTSD, highlighting how courts must carefully disentangle the effects of new injuries from pre-existing conditions when assessing damages.
The court’s detailed analysis reveals critical lessons for personal injury practitioners about credibility assessments, causation, and economic loss calculations under section 55 of the Civil Liability Act 2003 (Qld). Despite Suncorp’s vigorous attack on Mr. Murphy’s credibility, the court recognised that psychiatric injuries require special consideration in witness assessment, ultimately awarding $635,000 in damages. This decision reinforces that while pre-existing conditions can complicate claims, they don’t bar recovery when new injuries exacerbate existing vulnerabilities—though they may significantly impact the quantum of damages, particularly for economic loss claims.
Listen below for Michelle Wright’s comprehensive breakdown of this important decision and its implications for complex personal injury claims. If you’ve been injured in a road accident and have pre-existing conditions that complicate your claim, the experienced team at accident legal understands these complexities and can help navigate the challenges to secure fair compensation. Contact us for a free consultation to discuss how we can protect your rights and maximise your recovery.