A former professional soccer player has won a four-year court
battle against a former teammate after a car crash resulted in him
needing to use a wheelchair for the rest of his life.
Zhang Yuning was driving in the accident and only slightly
injured, whilst Qu Leheng was left paraplegic.
The Shenyang Intermediate People's Court ordered Zhang to pay Qu
2.34 million yuan (US$282,950) in compensation for the consequences
of the crash.
The sum is 300,000 yuan (US$36,000) less than a ruling in March
by a lower court, the local Dongling District People's Court of
Shenyang.
Zhang, who now plays for Shanghai Shenhua, has to come up with
the money within 10 days regardless of an appeal.
Of the total, 700,000 yuan (US$84,000) was for psychological
damages, the largest portion of the compensation demand. This is
the highest ever award for psychological damages in the
country.
Qu said he would consult with his lawyer before making any
decision on a further appeal, but sources close to him said he may
even go to the country's supreme court.
The Qu family had originally sought 5.74 million yuan
(US$691,560) to cover Qu's lifetime expenses and make up for loss
of income.
Yesterday's judgment was made after several attempts at
mediation by the court since August had failed.
(China Daily November 11, 2004)