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Our client, Lee, was employed as a production operative and was asked to store paint tins on the mezzanine level of his workplace. This routine task ultimately led to a serious accident that caused lasting injury, loss of earnings, and the eventual loss of his employment. Lee instructed Fosters’ Personal Injury team on a no win no basis and we were able to support him successfully through an injury claim to secure a £70,000 settlement.
When Lee arrived on the mezzanine floor, he discovered that his route was blocked by a heavy metal bender machine weighing approximately 750kg. The machine had been left on a wooden pallet. A colleague attempted to move the machine using a pump truck while it remained on the pallet, and Lee offered assistance by steadying it. Without warning, the pallet collapsed under the weight of the machine. The machine fell directly onto Lee’s left foot, causing multiple fractures, severe soft tissue injuries, and he also fractured a tooth.
Colleagues quickly intervened and were able to lift the machine just enough for Lee to slide his foot out of his trainer. Nevertheless, the initial injury was severe, and within two weeks he was admitted to hospital due to suspected sepsis arising from infection in the damaged tissues. Over the following months, Lee experienced two further wound infections. His injuries required prolonged treatment and gradually healed over the course of seven months.
The accident had a significant impact on his day-to-day life. Eight months after the incident, Lee remained unable to walk his dog, attend the gym, or fully resume normal activities. He also felt unable to drive a manual car due to ongoing sensitivity in his foot, leading him to purchase an automatic vehicle.
From a work perspective, the accident was highly disruptive. Lee was unable to return to work for 11 months, during which time he continued to receive his basic pay but lost approximately £400 net per month in overtime. When he did return, his difficulties continued, and six months later, he was dismissed on grounds of ill health. His injuries left him unable to drive a forklift, remain on his feet for extended periods, or walk safely on uneven surfaces.
Fosters acted for Lee in bringing a claim against his employer. We entered into negotiations with the defendant regarding liability and secured an interim payment of £5,000 to help Lee cover ongoing household expenses following his dismissal.
Medical evidence was obtained to demonstrate the extent of Lee’s injuries and the long-term impact they had on his mobility and ability to work. The defendant initially offered £30,000 in settlement. After careful review and further negotiation, supported by the strength of the medical evidence, we were able to achieve a settlement of £70,000.
This result ensured that Lee received fair compensation for the pain, suffering, and financial losses he endured as a result of the accident.
Commenting, Senior Associate Chris Turner, said: “Cases like Lee’s highlight just how profoundly a workplace injury can disrupt someone’s everyday life, and they underline the value of having experienced legal support when navigating a claim. Our role is not only to guide clients through the process, but to ensure their injuries and circumstances are fully understood and properly acknowledged.”
“In Lee’s case, we were able to obtain key medical evidence to confirm the extent of his injury, as well as secure an interim payment to support him financially during a difficult time. We understand how stressful and uncertain these situations can be, so we are truly pleased to have achieved such a positive outcome for Lee – one that will help him focus on his recovery and look ahead with greater confidence.”
At Fosters, we understand how devastating workplace accidents can be – not only physically, but also financially and emotionally. We work hard to ensure our clients receive the compensation and support they deserve, helping them to move forward after injury.
If you have suffered an accident at work, our team is here to help.
We understand you will want to know how we can assist, so we offer a free of charge no obligation first meeting or chat, which we follow up with a full letter of advice. If you are in any doubt as to whether you have a claim, please do contact us, again completely without obligation.
We are also able to discuss how you can cover the cost of a claim, including through a no win no fee agreement.
Please call us on 01603 620508 or complete our contact form.
