Rory Scarlett, of South Heath, was injured and Chesham teen Hussein Shamshudin died after crash in Seer Green

Rory Scarlett, now 22, of South Heath, was left in a coma for a month after being involved in a crash which also killed his 17-year-old friend Hussein Shamshudin, from Chesham.

The Citroen C4 car was driven by Loudwater resident Ryan Grace, then 19, when disaster struck in February 2012, as he lost control on a bend and slammed the vehicle sideways into a tree in Longbottom Lane, Seer Green.

Both his passengers were pupils at Dr Challoner's Grammar School, in Amersham, at the time of the crash.

Mr Scarlett suffered severe injuries to his brain and leg but made an astonishing recovery and was able to return to school a year later.

After his lawyers launched legal action against Mr Grace, motor insurers swiftly admitted primary liability for the accident, the High Court heard.

But there was a dispute over whether Mr Scarlett had contributed to his own injuries by failing to wear a seatbelt.

His lawyers were adamant that he had been, but today agreed to a settlement of his claim on the basis of 85 per cent liability.

The compromise guarantees Mr Scarlett substantial compensation for his pain and suffering and to cover his lost earnings and the costs of care.

Mr Justice Nicol approved the settlement after it was announced by Mr Scarlett's barrister, Patricia Hitchcock QC.

The judge said the compromise on the issue of liability was 'appropriate and realistic'.

The amount of compensation that Mr Scarlett will receive will be assessed at a later date.