A former professional soccer player has won a four-year court battle against a former teammate after a car crash resulted in him needing to use a wheelchair for the rest of his life.

Zhang Yuning was driving in the accident and only slightly injured, whilst Qu Leheng was left paraplegic.

The Shenyang Intermediate People's Court ordered Zhang to pay Qu 2.34 million yuan (US$282,950) in compensation for the consequences of the crash.

The sum is 300,000 yuan (US$36,000) less than a ruling in March by a lower court, the local Dongling District People's Court of Shenyang.

Zhang, who now plays for Shanghai Shenhua, has to come up with the money within 10 days regardless of an appeal.

Of the total, 700,000 yuan (US$84,000) was for psychological damages, the largest portion of the compensation demand. This is the highest ever award for psychological damages in the country.

Qu said he would consult with his lawyer before making any decision on a further appeal, but sources close to him said he may even go to the country's supreme court.

The Qu family had originally sought 5.74 million yuan (US$691,560) to cover Qu's lifetime expenses and make up for loss of income.

Yesterday's judgment was made after several attempts at mediation by the court since August had failed.

(China Daily November 11, 2004)