Police Scotland face huge compensation payout over M9 crash delay

POLICE Scotland are to be hit with a “six figure” compensation bill over the M9 car crash tragedy.

Lawyers have confirmed to The Sunday Post they are acting for Lamara Bell’s family.

They expect to win multiple compensation payouts for family members left traumatised over the way the young mum died.

Dad-of-four John Yuill and Lamara, 25, were in a Renault Clio that left the road and collided with a tree near Stirling.

The accident happened as the couple returned from a camping trip to Loch Earn.

John, 28, perished at the scene, but mum-of-two Lamara drifted in and out of consciousness for 72 hours after cops ignored a 101 call reporting the accident.

A passer-by spotted the crash on July 5, and alerted police but there was no response to the tip-off.

Only when a second call was made was an investigation undertaken but Lamara later died in hospital.

Interim findings from Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary blamed the crash on driver error.

It has now emerged one of Scotland’s leading legal firms is to represent the Bell family, and an independent investigation into the handling of the case is under way.

A spokesman for Digby Brown Solicitors said: “We are acting for members of the Bell family.

“We will be providing support and working to ensure those affected by these tragic events get the answers to the many questions they have.

“Given the sensitivity of the situation and the ongoing investigations, it would not be appropriate for us to comment further at this stage.”

Earlier this week it emerged driver John had yet to pass his test.

His grieving dad Gordon insisted his son was “very safe” after “years” behind the wheel.

The 51-year-old said: “He never sat his test. People will make their own judgement but John has paid with his life.”

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “Everyone at Police Scotland continues to have the utmost sympathy for the families of those involved. An investigation is ongoing by the PIRC.”