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\pnlcltr\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}{\*\pnseclvl9\pnlcrm\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}\pard\plain \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10169282 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 IN THE HIGH COURT OF FIJI \par AT SUVA \par CIVIL JURISDICTION \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10169282 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10169282 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 CIVIL ACTION HBC 208 OF 2007 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10169282 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10169282 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 BETWEEN: \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10169282 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10169282 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 NEELAM BANDHANA NAND \par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 Plaintiff \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10169282 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10169282 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 AND: \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10169282 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10169282 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 TACIRUA TRANSPORT COMPANY LIMITED \par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 First Defendant \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10169282 {\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10169282 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 AND: \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10169282 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10169282 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 BIJENDRA PRASAD \par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 Second Defendant \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10169282 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 \par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 Mr D Singh for the Plaintiff \par Ms P Narayan for the Defendants \par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10169282 {\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 JUDGMENT}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10169282 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 \par This action is brought by the Plaintiff as the administratrix of the estate of her late husband Niraj Chaudhary (the deceased) who died as a result of injuries received in a motor vehicle collision.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 The collision occurred on 6 June 2005 on Princes Road close to Dilkusha Road near Sawani and a short distance from Nausori.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 It was a two vehicle head on collision involving a taxi, driven by the deceas ed, that was travelling from Nausori towards Sawani and a bus, owned by the First Defendant and driven by the Second Defendant, which was travelling from Tacirua towards Nausori.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 The Plaintiff}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 '}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 s husband (the deceased) sustained injuries and died shortly afterwards.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 The driver of the bus was not injured apart from shock. \par \par The Plaintiff claims damages pursuant to the provisions of the Law Reform (Miscellaneous Provisions) (Death and Interest) Act Cap 27 and the Compensation to Relatives Act Cap 29. \par \par The Plaintiff alleges that the collision was caused by the negligence of the Second Defendant.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 Particulars of negligence were pleaded on the Plaintiff}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 '}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 s Statement of Claim.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 Furthermore the Plaintiff alleges that the Second Defendant was driving the bus at the time of the collision as the servant and or agent of the First Defendant who owned the bus.}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 The Statement of Claim set out the particulars of damages claimed under the legislation. \par \par In the Defence liability in negligence was denied and the Defendant asserted that the collision was caused by the negligence of the deceased.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 Particulars of contributory negligence on the part of the deceased were pleaded in the Defence. \par \par In Pre-Trial Conference Minutes dated 8 May 2008 ownership of the bus and employment of the Second Defendant by the First Defendant was admitted.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 It was also admitted that at the time of the collision the Second Defendant was driving the bus in the course of employment. \par \par In the Minutes of the Pre-Trial Conference on assessment of damages dated 1 December 2008 the parties agreed on quantum and interest that would form the basis of any apportionment in the event that there was a finding of contributory negligence.}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 The amounts agreed upon in respect of interest were no doubt calculated on the basis that the trial would start on 3 December 2008.}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 The interest now payable in the event of a finding of negligence will be calculated on the basis that the trial started on 18 July 2011. \par \par The Court notes that the hearing of this action did start on 3 December 2008.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 At the end of the hearing directions were given for simultaneous written closing submissions to be filed within 21 days and thereafter judgment on notice.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 There is no indication in the file that written submissions were filed.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 As at April 2009 when the learned trial Judge left the Bench the judgment had not been delivered.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 As a result it was necessary for the action to be re-heard.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 The re-hearing took place in Suva on 18 \endash 19 July 2011.}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 At the conclusion of the evidence Counsel for the parties presented oral closing submissions. \par \par A sketch plan and various photographs of the approximate location of the collision were admitted by consent into evidence as exhibits.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 A number of amendments were made by consent to the Statement of Claim.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 The ame ndments were made during the course of the hearing to accurately reflect the circumstances of the collision. \par \par The Plaintiff called four witnesses to give evidence.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 The Plaintiff herself did not give evidence and in fact did not attend the hearing.} {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 The fi rst witness called by the Plaintiff was Constable Inoke Luveni who had prepared the sketch plan and who had attended at the scene of the collision a short time after the collision.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 His sketch plan contained some measurements and showed the approximate position of each vehicle when he arrived at the scene after the collision.}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 The second witness was the deceased}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 '}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 s father who had taken photographs of the scene of the collision some three weeks after the collision.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 The third and fourth witnesses were Mr Jone Turagavuli and Mr Ramesh Prasad.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 These two gentlemen were walking to work along Princes Road towards Sawani on the right side of the road.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 They gave evidence as to their observations concerning the collision. \par \par The Defendants called one witness.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 He was Mr Bijendra Prasad, the Second Defendant and the driver of the bus. \par \par The only issue before the Court was whether the collision was caused by the negligence of the Second Defendant and if so was there any contributory negligence on the part of the deceased. \par \par Having carefully considered and weighed the evidence given by all the witnesses and having considered the sketch plan and the photographs I shall set out what I consider to be the essential findings of fact. \par \par I am satisfied that the collision occurred sometime between 6.00a.m and 6.10a.m on Monday 6 June 2005.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 I have no hesitation in concluding that at that time of the year it was still dark at that time.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 The weather was fine.}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 The road was dry. \par \par I am also satisfied that the collision occurred on Princes Road close to its intersection with Dilkusha Road and at a location that was between Nausori and Sawani.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 The road surface was sealed with marked double continous white lines in the centre of the road.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 On the bus driver}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 '}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 s side of the road in the vicinit y of the point of impact a portion of the sealed surface of the road had broken up.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 The extent of the damage was the subject of inconsistent evidence and I make no findings on the extent of the damaged surface.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 The damage extended to more than half the width of the bus driver}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 '}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 s side of the sealed road.}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 It would appear that the road rises gradually and that the point of impact occurred a short distance from a gradual bend in the road to the right viewed from the direction that the bus was travelling.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 Although the sketch plan has a marking }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 '}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 C}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 '}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 which purports to indicate the total width of the sealed road, no measurement was given in the key that accompanied the sketch plan.}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 However from the sketch plan the letter }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 '}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 k}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 '}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 indicates that the width from the cent re line to the edge of the sealed portion on the taxi}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 '}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 s side was about 3.9 metres.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 The photographs taken by the deceased}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 '}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 s father some three weeks after the collision indicate that the sealed lanes in each direction were wide enough for vehicles to travel without having to straddle the marked double centre lines. \par \par I am satisfied that the bus driver was driving an empty bus to Nausori and shortly before the collision was travelling at a speed between 50 \endash 60 kph.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 I am satisfied that before he left the bus depot at Tacirua the driver checked the bus and left the depot at about 5.40am.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 I am satisfied that his headlights were working and were still on when the collision occurred.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 I also accept that the driver of the bus was required to be at the Nausori bus station at 6.10am. \par \par The deceased was driving a Toyota Corolla hatchback vehicle coloured white.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 There were no passengers in the deceased}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 '}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 s taxi.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 There was no evidence before the Court as to where the deceased was travelling or for what purpose.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 It was n ot made known to the Court whether the deceased was driving his taxi to collect a fare or was on his way to work at Rups in Marks Street in Suva City or some other purpose. \par \par I accept the evidence of Constable Luveni as to the position of the vehicles when he arrived at the scene.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 The bus was located on its correct side of the double centre line with the driver}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 '}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 s side of the bus virtually on the centre lines.}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 The taxi was located on the gravel off its own side of the road at an angle to the direction it had been travelling.}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 I accept that there were no skid marks on the road way from either vehicle and that the bus had come to a stop a short distance past the point of impact. \par \par On the evidence before me I am satisfied that the point of impact was in about the centre of the road.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 The sketch plan prepared by Constable Luveni showed the point of impact as being on the bus driver}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 '}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 s side of the centre line.}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 In reaching that conclusion the Constable relied on what he had been told by the bus driver.}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 I am satisfied that both drivers were driving their vehicles some distance from the left or near side of their respective lanes. \par \par The damage to the taxi was across the entire front of the vehicle and was severe.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 The damage to the bus was on the front to the driver}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 '}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 s side. \par \par I am also satisfied that speed must have been a factor in the sense that both drivers were travelling at speeds that gave them neither time nor opportunity to avoid the collision by moving slightly to the left and away from the centre of the road. \par \par I am also satisfied that neither driver was keeping a proper lookout in the sense that there were no tyre marks on the road to indicate that either driver had applied the brakes to either reduce speed or to avoid the collision. \par \par I find that the Second Defendant was negligent in that he was driving his bus too far from the left side of the road.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 There was sufficient space on the sealed road for him to be further to the left.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 I find that he was travelling at a speed that was excessive under the circumstances and that he failed to keep a proper lookout. \par \par I also find the deceased had contributed to the collision by his negligence.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 It is clear that the taxi was also travelling too far from the left of the road.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 There was also sufficient space on the sealed pa rt of the road for him to position his taxi further to the left.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 I am satisfied that the deceased was travelling at an excessive speed that prevented him from avoiding the collision.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 The deceased failed to keep a proper lookout in the sense that there appeared to be no attempt to apply his brakes to avoid the collision. \par \par Furthermore I find that both drivers were in breach of Regulation 3 (1) (a) of the Land Transport (Traffic) Regulations 2000 which requires a driver of a vehicle to keep the vehicle as close as practicable to the left or near side of the carriage-way. \par \par Under the circumstances I have concluded that the Second Defendant was negligent and that his negligence was in part responsible for or caused the collision.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 Since the Plaintiff has established negligence on the part of the Second Defendant, that finding attracts vicarious liability to the First Defendant. \par \par In assessing contributory negligence the issue to be considered is whether the deceased acted in a way that indicated that he had failed to take reasonable care of himself and as a result contributed to his injuries.}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 Furthermore in a situation such as the present where the two vehicles are moving in relation to one another as to involve risk of collision, each driver owes the other a duty to move with due care.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 (See }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 Nance \endash v- British Columbia Electric Railway Co. Ltd}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 [1951] AC 601 at page 611) \par \par For the reasons stated above I am satisfied that the deceased was driving his taxi at the time of the collision in a manner that indicated that he failed to take reasonable care for his own safety and failed in his duty to the driver of the bus to drive his vehicle with due care. \par \par I find both drivers contributed equally to the collision and I fix contributory negligence at 50%. \par \par I consider it appropriate to comment briefly on the evidence given by the two witnesses called by the Plaintiff, both of whom appeared not to have any interest in the outcome and both of whom were called on the bases that they were independent.}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 At the outset both witnesses admitted that they had never driven a motor vehicle and had never held a licence to drive a motor vehicle.}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 Although they both gave evidence that they saw the bus travelling at a fast speed and move over the centre line onto its incorrect side of the road, that observation was made at last 30 metres from where point of impact occurred.}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 It was still dark and they were not able to recall whether there were street lights operating at the time.}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 One of the two witnesses gave evidence that the bus }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 "}{ \b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 dragged}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 "}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 the taxi vehicle for a distance.}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 However he also accepted that there were no tyre marks on the road. \par \par Their assertion that the bus was travelling very fast was not supported by the fact that the bus came to a stop only a short distance beyond the point of im pact and that there were no tyre marks or skid marks anywhere on the sealed road to indicate sudden severe application of brakes.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 That, of course, does not detract from my finding that the speed of 50 \endash 60 kph was excessive under the circumstances. \par \par In my judgment the evidence of these two gentlemen was unreliable for a number of reasons.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 First, they had no driving experience whatsoever.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 Secondly they were casually walking along the road to work one behind the other not for one moment expecting to view an accident which happened suddenly in a split second.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 Thirdly they viewed the collision a distance at least 30 metres away.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 There was no evidence as to the period of time they had observed either vehicle before impact.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 It was accepted that the headlight s of the bus were operating at the time.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 Finally some aspects of their evidence indicated that they had discussed the circumstances of the collision between themselves. \par \par In assessing the weight to be given to their evidence I have taken into account the observations on }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 Faryna \endash v- Choiny}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 [1952] 2 D.L.R 354 a decision of the British Columbia Court of Appeal.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 The Court said at page 356: \par \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid10169282 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 "}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 If a trial judge}{ \b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 '}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 s finding of credibility (and I would add reliability) is to depend solely on which person he thinks mad e the better appearance of sincerity in the witness box, we are left with a purely arbitrary finding and justice would then depend upon the best actors in the witness box.}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 }{ \b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 On reflection}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 it becomes almost axiomatic that the appearance of telling the truth is but one of the elements that enter into the credibility of the evidence of a witness.}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 }{ \b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 Opportunities for knowledge, powers of observation, judgment and memory, ability to describe clearly what he has seen and heard, as well as other factors, combine to produce what is called credibility. _ _ _ \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10169282 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid10169282 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 _ _ _The test must necessarily subject his story to an examination of its consistency with the probabilities that surround the currently existing condition.}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 "}{ \b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10169282 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 \par For the reasons stated above I do not consider the e vidence of the two independent witnesses to be in accordance with the preponderance of probabilities that emerged from the unchallenged objective evidence derived from the sketch plan prepared by Constable Luveni.}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 I accept the cautionary words in }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 Nickisson \endash v- R}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 [1963] W.A.R. 114 that: \par }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid10169282 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 "}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 Nor does a Police Officer} {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 '}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 s experience in investigating traffic accidents make him an expert for the purpose of reconstructing a particular traffic accident.}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 "}{ \b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10169282 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 \par However the sketch plan and the evidence given by Constable Lu veni provided sufficient objective material to support the conclusion that there was negligence on the part of the Second Defendant and contributory negligence on the part of the deceased in the manner in which they}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 drove, managed and controlled their respective vehicles. \par \par The order of the Court is that the Plaintiff is entitled to damages agreed and interest to be assessed both of which are to be reduced by 50% on the basis of contributory negligence.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 As the Plaintiff has succeeded in her claim I order that the Defendants pay the Plaintiff}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282 '}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 s costs of the proceedings on the standard basis (party and party) to be agreed and if no agreement to be taxed. \par \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10169282 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 W D Calanchini \par }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 JUDGE}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10169282 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 \par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 18 August 2011 \par At Suva}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10169282\charrsid10169282 \par }}