Facts
An engineer injured in a train accident claimed lost earnings.
Issue
Should damages for lost earnings be reduced for the tax he would have paid?
Held
Yes.
Principle
Damages for lost earnings are based on what the claimant would actually have received, after tax.
Why it matters
Shows compensation is for real loss only.
Cited in these chapters
Cite this page
British Transport Commission v Gourley [1956] AC 185 (Lanbuk) <https://www.lanbuk.com/llb/torts/cases/bt-commission-v-gourley> accessed 31 October 2026
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This summary is a Lanbuk study aid based on the generally known facts and reports of the case. It is not legal advice.