A bus driver from Bexleyheath will receive £6,500 compensation after suffering a back injury due to his work. Unite, Britain’s largest union, has secured the compensation for Russell Williams in association with specialist personal injury solicitors, Pattinson & Brewer.
Mr Williams works for Selkent. In October 2004, he checked his bus before leaving the depot and noticed that the seat would not tilt back. He reported this fault to his employer. Although the defect was noted, he was told to drive the bus. The bus went over a pothole and the seat shot down.
Mr Williams explains:-
“I immediately felt my back click. The left side of my neck also hurt. I could not move. My right arm had started to go numb, and my left was cold. I asked the passengers to get off the bus and board the bus behind. I could not get out of the cab, and it was two hours before the firebrigade managed to remove the door of the bus and get me out. I was off work for two weeks. My wife and I went on holiday in November 2004 to Sri Lanka but this holiday was ruined because of my injuries.”
Representing Mr Williams, Deborah Smith from Pattinson Brewer Solicitors says:-
“This was a very frightening experience for my client. His injuries could have been prevented had his employer acted on complaints about this fault. Employers must make safety a priority.”
Unite’s branch secretary, Steve Barker says:-
“Mr Williams went through a traumatic time following this unnecessary accident and I am pleased that he has now received the compensation he deserves.”
Note If you or anyone you know has suffered an injury, contact us now for specialist claim advice.
Pattinson & Brewer never act for employers or Insurance Companies. We are committed to acting for those who suffer injuries or diseases.
