Case study: loss of movement after machinery accident

Our personal injury solicitors advised a man who was involved in a machinery accident at the water plant where he worked. Our client was assisting with the repair of a piece of machinery and, whilst doing so, he lifted a moving conveyor belt on the machine. His middle finger on his dominant hand got caught in the belt and the tip was severed.

Amputation after machinery accident

Our client attended hospital where his finger was surgically reattached. Unfortunately, it then became infected. Due to this, the surgeon had to amputate the finger down to the first joint.

There were some initial concerns as our client’s colleagues’ account of the accident differed to that of our client. The company therefore disciplined and demoted him following his involvement in the incident. Our specialist workplace accident solicitors were satisfied that the our client’s account was truthful and proceeded to submit the claim.

Admission of liability

The Defendant (our client’s workplace) admitted liability in full for the machinery accident and we obtained medical records. Our personal injury team researched an appropriate expert to instruct on this matter and located a Hand Surgeon local to our client.

A medical report confirmed that de-sensitisation and cold intolerance would improve over a couple of years. However, his loss of movement and problems with fine tasks, i.e. picking up coins from his pocket, would not improve over time.

Settlement offer

We valued the claim using previous case law and Judicial College Guidelines, and made an offer of settlement to the Defendant. The Defendant responded with a counter offer of £7,535 which, although not within our valuation bracket, our client accepted.

Contact our workplace accident solicitors

Wondering if you can claim for an injury sustained at work? Call our specialist personal injury solicitors on 0117 325 2929 or complete our online enquiry form.