ATL member suffers fractured vertebrae at work
An ATL member has received £160,000 in compensation after slipping on ice at the school where she worked.
The ATL member, who worked as a teacher, was heading out of her office to a meeting. As she made her way down the steps outside, she slipped on ice and landed heavily on her back.
She was taken to hospital, where x-rays and scans confirmed that she had fractured vertebrae in her back. After being fitted with a brace, which she had to wear for 4 months following the accident, she had to undergo extensive rehabilitation and required care and assistance in view of her reduced mobility.
Despite initially returning to work after 6 months, she continued to suffer significant back and leg pain and found it extremely difficult to stand for long periods of time. Unfortunately, therefore, she made the decision to take early retirement.
The member contacted her Union, ATL, who then referred her to Morrish Solicitors, their national personal injury solicitors and legal experts. Investigations revealed that water had been dripping from the school roof for some time and due to the cold weather, this had turned into ice, which caused her to slip and fall.
Settlement Secured
Proceedings were issued and liability for the accident was admitted by the school. However, their insurers disputed the extent of the injuries and disagreed that they had caused the member to retire early.
Morrish Solicitors obtained medical evidence from an Orthopaedic Consultant, who, despite initially stating that the member should make a full recovery within 2 years, her pain continued and she was now also suffering from depression. A Consultant Neurologist and Neuro-Psychiatrist later confirmed that she was suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and would require ongoing treatment. They also stated that her decision to take early retirement was “entirely reasonable” given the injuries sustained.
Following lengthy negotiations, with the support of medical evidence, a full and final settlement figure of £160,000 was offered, which was accepted. The figure included settlement for injury, expenses incurred and future loss of earnings.
She commented: “The outcome of my accident wasn’t just the physical pain and discomfort I suffered, but also the psychological impact it has had on my life.
This is a situation that could easily have been avoided. I am delighted with the final settlement I have received, with the help of ATL and Gary at Morrish Solicitors. I can now look forward to enjoying life with my family.”
