A father left with devastating injuries after a crash with a stolen car was praised for his “dignity, courage and fortitude” as he settled a multi-million-pound compensation claim.

Mark Seabrook, 49, was paralysed on February 1, 2006 when his car was hit by a stolen vehicle at the junction of Park Road and Stratford Road, Watford.

Salliaman Khan. of Jellicoe Road, Watford, was later jailed for eight months for aggravated vehicle taking. For Mr Seabrook, however, the fight for compensation was only just beginning.

He brought his claim for £5m in compensation to the High Court last week, where a top judge due to decide how much he would receive.

But, after a break in proceedings today, his lawyers announced they had reached a confidential settlement which Mr Seabrook is "very pleased with".

The court had heard that, before the accident, Mr Seabrook was happily-married with children then aged six and four. He worked at the Watford branch of estate agent Proffitt & Holt, where he was a partner and was being considered for a director's role.

But his happy life was ruined when he was hit by a stolen car that failed to give way.

Mr Seabrook was knocked unconscious in the smash and suffered severe injuries to his spine, multiple rib fractures, a broken leg and chest, lung and head injuries. After six months in various hospitals he emerged wheelchair-bound for the rest of his life.

His lawyer said he and his wife have since "grown apart" and, despite trying get into his office or work from home, he has also been made redundant.

As well as his paraplegia, Mr Seabrook suffers from chest and backaches, a cramp-like pain in his shoulder and swollen legs, ankles and feet.

Mr Seabrook was seeking compensation for his pain and suffering, loss of employment, and to pay for his future care, which lawyers say will become more expensive as his condition worsens.

Today's settlement, although confidential, is believed to include a seven-figure sum. It will be paid in the form of a lump sum, plus annual, index-linked and tax-free payments to cover the costs of his care for the rest of his life.

Speaking after the parties settled, Judge Thornton QC praised Mr Seabrook for his bravery. He said: "I am very pleased that there has been a settlement and I wish him and his family well for the future.

"I was most impressed with the courage and fortitude that he has shown throughout the period since his accident, and the dignity with which he gave evidence and presented himself in court."

Lawyers for Mr Seabrook declined to disclose how much compensation he would receive, but said he was "very pleased" with the "substantial" amount.