Substantial damages recovered following employer negligence
A Unite member has settled a claim for £65,000 after suffering a serious injury at work.
The claimant, who drives an HGV unit in York, was seriously injured after falling from the back of his lorry. The vehicle had been altered by the defendant, meaning the member had to climb to release part of its mechanism which was trapped on the exhaust.
The fall and subsequent injury to his ankle, plus his age, meant that member’s career was ended by the incident. The client is a member of Unite the Union and was referred to Morrish Solicitors.
During the case, the defendant denied ever having made any alterations to the vehicle — claims which were proved to be untrue following production of photos of the lorry showing the height of its exhaust before and after the changes.
On seeing the photographic evidence, the defendant offered an out of court settlement of £65,000.
Martin Bare, solicitor at Morrish Solicitors who represented the claimant said:
“We were pleased to be able to fully support this Unite member, to face up to the defendant’s dishonesty and to win substantial damages.
Because the member had chosen to use Morrish Solicitors, who were recommended by Unite, he had an experienced legal team which knew the ins and outs of the transport industry, due to the work we have carried out in this area for the union over many years. My advice would be to always choose a solicitor recommended by your trade union.”
Personal injury experts
We have a dedicated team of personal injury solicitors with a wealth of experience in accident at work claims. If you have suffered an injury in the workplace get in touch on 033 3344 9600 or email [email protected].
