A “Running Down” Damages Claim – Elite Athlete v Happy Snapper

KVV Inc Attorneys

Published on: 04/03/2025

During a "Ladies Race" in Sea Point, Cape Town, an elite runner collided with a pedestrian, causing serious injuries. The pedestrian sued the runner and race organizer for R718,000. The court found the runner negligent for not paying sufficient attention to her surroundings, as she was focused solely on winning. However, the pedestrian was deemed 70% contributorily negligent, as she was aware of the race and had been warned about runners. The race organizer was cleared of negligence. The pedestrian was awarded 30% of proven damages.