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Introduction

In this case, our client, an employee of a large pork production farm, secured £30,000 in compensation for an ankle injury sustained in the workplace. The injury occurred during a break and was due to the employer’s failure to maintain a safe environment. This case highlights employer liability, workplace safety, and the role of rehabilitation in personal injury claims.

Background of the Case

The client was employed as a machine operator at a pork production farm. On the day of the accident, he entered the locker room to change before lunch. A water dispenser had been improperly replaced, causing a leak that created a slippery surface on the floor. He stepped onto the wet floor, slipped and lost balance, and fell, sustaining an ankle fracture.

The injury required hospitalisation and the insertion of metal screws. Despite treatment, the client experienced pain, swelling, and mobility issues. The injury affected his quality of life, leading to a long recovery period and psychological distress, including anxiety and sleep disturbances due to financial and employment concerns.

Legal Analysis and Employer Liability

The employer failed in the following areas:

• Failure to Maintain Safe Premises – The leaking water posed a foreseeable risk, and the employer had a duty to address such hazards.
• Inadequate Inspection and Maintenance – Regular checks should have identified the improperly installed water dispenser before it caused an accident.
• Negligence in Addressing Workplace Hazards – No warnings, such as hazard signs or immediate clean-up, were in place to mitigate the risk.

Based on these factors, the employer was liable for the accident under employer negligence and occupiers’ liability.

Claim Process and Compensation

Once the client instructed us, we notified the employer of the claim. The compensation included:

• General Damages for Pain and Suffering – A significant portion of the award covered the injury, pain, and limited mobility.
• Loss of Earnings – The employer continued to pay wages throughout the client’s absence, but minor incidental financial losses were included in the claim.
• Rehabilitation Costs – We secured additional funding from the defendant to cover specialist rehabilitation for the client.
• Psychological Impact – Anxiety and sleep disturbances from pain and financial worries were also included in the claim.

Rehabilitation and Recovery

When the client approached us a year after the accident, he was still experiencing discomfort and functional impairment. We ensured the defendant covered the costs of specialist rehabilitation for ankle injuries. Over a year, the client improved enough to return to work with minimal discomfort.

Key Takeaways

• Employer Responsibility for Workplace Safety – Employers must maintain safe premises, including break areas.
• Comprehensive Compensation Beyond Medical Costs – Claims cover medical costs, rehabilitation, lost earnings, and psychological distress.
• The Role of Rehabilitation in Personal Injury Claims – Securing funding for rehabilitation improves recovery and quality of life.
• Timely Legal Action Ensures Maximum Support – Engaging legal representation promptly facilitates medical support, financial stability, and a strong claim against negligent employers.

Conclusion

This case shows how legal representation can secure financial compensation and rehabilitation resources for injured employees. While financial compensation cannot undo an injury, a well-handled claim ensures clients receive the care, support, and financial redress to restore their quality of life. Employers must take steps to prevent similar accidents and maintain a safe workplace.

This article is for general information only and does not constitute legal or professional advice. Please note that the law may have changed since this article was published.

Call us now to discuss your case 0330 107 0107 or email us at info@imd.co.uk.