A schoolgirl left severely disabled after a horrific accident is to sue Basildon District Council for more than £1 million.

Karen Searle, now 15, was just 12 when she was hit by a DAF dustcart in Jermayns - just one street away from her home in Plumberow, Basildon - while trying to cross the road with her bike. She suffered head and spinal injuries.

A writ issued at London's High Court stated that Karen was left quadriplegic after the accident needing constant care.

She will never be able to live independently, work or walk - and her condition could deteriorate, the writ claims.

The action, launched by Karen's father, Robert, claims compensation on the grounds that the lorry driver was allegedly negligent in failing to see her ahead of him.

Last night (Monday) Karen's mum Mrs Maureen Searle would not comment on the case.

A spokesman for Basildon Council said: "It would be inappropriate for the council to comment at this time."

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