A warehouse operative from Herne Bay has been awarded £359,717.62 initial compensation one week before a scheduled three day High Court trial. Michael Crane, 62, has received this interim compensation award with the help of Unite the Union in association with specialist personal injury solicitors, Pattinson & Brewer. In addition, he has the right to further compensation if his condition significantly deteriorates. Michael was employed by Lenham Storage as a warehouse operative. In May 2004, whilst picking goods in an aisle he was struck by a fellow forklift truck driver and suffered a bi-malleolar fracture of his right ankle, which did not heal and subsequently became infected. Michael says:- "I was struck by a reversing forklift truck. I knew immediately that I had broken my leg. I have not been able to return to work. I continue to suffer from the after effects of the accident and now have extremely restricted mobility and an open wound. I cannot pursue my hobbies of sailing, walking or fishing. My wife and I chose to live by the sea so that we would enjoy an active lifestyle. If not for my mobility scooter, I would effectively be a prisoner in my own house. I have been advised that I will need further surgery and that there is a risk that I will need a below knee amputation in the future." Representing Michael, Niamh O’Brady, Unite Partner at Pattinson & Brewer says:- "Mr Crane’s accident could easily have been avoided by the introduction of a one way system in the aisles and the warehouse with designated picking areas and pedestrian walkways. A properly organised workplace would have prevented Mr Crane from being robbed of the last working years of his life and an active and enjoyable retirement". Regional Secretary at Unite the Union, Andy Frampton says:- "Mr Crane has had to endure a number of surgical procedures as a result of his employer’s failure to provide a properly planned safe place of work where forklift truck drivers and pedestrians could work in the same area without risk of injury. I am pleased that Unite the Union was able to help with Pattinson & Brewer, who have supported Mr Crane throughout the claim process and won the right for Mr Crane to return to the Court if there is any serious deterioration in his condition, which could lead to a below knee amputation as a result of injury suffered in this accident." NOTE If you or anyone you know has suffered an injury, contact us now on Freephone 0800 988 0777 for specialist claim advice. Pattinson & Brewer never acts for employers or insurance companies. We are committed to acting for those who suffer injuries or diseases.
