Suffolk County Council has paid out more than £1.4 million in compensation settlements over a three-year period, much of which related to personal injury claims.

The vast majority of the payments – including the two largest settlements – were for road accidents. One driver who suffered brain damage in a crash in June 2012 was paid £147,739 after the Council had failed to put in place the correct warning signs. In another accident for which the Council was held partly liable, the driver of a car who was left paralysed received £99,526 in compensation.

Compensation was also paid out for injuries sustained by Council staff. Of the 43 payouts, 14 were for more than £10,000. One Council employee who sustained a neck injury whilst working in the children and young people’s team received £50,000 in damages.

Councils are responsible for keeping many public places safe. Other public spaces, such as supermarkets and privately owned health clubs, are the responsibility of their owners and operators.