Former NRL player Ethan Lowe’s legal battle with the game’s insurer has taken a dramatic turn as videos of him jet skiing and dancing were presented in court. The premiership-winning forward is suing Lloyd’s of London for denying his claim under a paralysis policy, following a career-ending injury.
The Injury and the Lawsuit
Ethan Lowe, 33, a tough forward with a State of Origin appearance in 2019, was forced to retire in 2020 after suffering a serious spinal injury during a match. The injury, sustained in a tackle while playing for the Rabbitohs, led Lowe to claim he suffers from hemiplegia—paralysis on one side of the body.
However, Lloyd’s of London denied his claim, arguing that he does not meet the policy’s definition of paralysis. The insurer also questioned whether a previous injury from 2016 contributed to his condition. Lowe had suffered a spinal injury then but returned to play in 2017 after surgery.
Controversial Videos
The court was shown videos of Lowe riding a jet ski and dancing with his wife to “Time Warp” from The Rocky Horror Picture Show. These videos, shot in 2021, depict Lowe using both hands, which Lloyd’s of London argues contradicts his claims of severe impairment.
Lowe, who now works for Tabcorp in Brisbane, testified that he remains active but his abilities are significantly diminished. He stated that while he can squat 80kg, it is much less than the 160kg he could lift during his playing days. Additionally, he can lift substantially less weight with his left side compared to his right.
Medical Testimony
Neurologist Rowena Mobbs testified that Lowe’s symptoms meet the diagnosis of hemiplegia, noting “severe weakness” on his left side. Under cross-examination, however, she admitted an error in her report, which incorrectly described Lowe as suffering from near paralysis.
Lowe’s Career and the Legal Fight
During his NRL career, Lowe made 143 appearances and played a key role in North Queensland’s 2015 Grand Final victory. He also represented Queensland in the 2019 State of Origin decider. His lawyer, Callan O’Neill, argued that the 2020 injury was distinct and separate from his previous injury, necessitating the insurance payout.
The court battle continues, with Justice Ian Jackman presiding over the case. Lowe’s claim hinges on the interpretation of the policy terms and the extent of his current disability.
Ethan Lowe’s lawsuit against Lloyd’s of London has been complicated by the emergence of videos that challenge his claims of paralysis. The outcome of this case could have significant implications for insurance policies covering sports injuries. As the hearing proceeds, the focus will be on whether Lowe’s condition satisfies the policy’s criteria for paralysis and whether his active lifestyle undermines his claim.
