Access Legal from Shoosmiths helped her to settle her compensation claim without going to court and recovered more than five times the amount offered by the defendant after taking her case on a no-win no-fee basis.

What we did

Miss X broke her leg when she slipped on a tarpaulin sheet left at the side of the stage. We were appointed to advise her on her claim and to recover compensation for her injuries and loss of earnings.

We obtained evidence to show that the local council had insurance to cover volunteer workers helping at the concert. Despite the council denying responsibility for the accident, it put forward a low offer to try to settle the case. After obtaining medical evidence and witness statements we were able to provide practical advice to the client and help her negotiate settlement of her claim, without going to court, for more than five times the amount first offered by the council.

Background

The client worked as a volunteer at a music concert. Our client's job was to help make sure the show went as planned and at the end of the show to help clear the stage. The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra completed its performance and our client began helping to clear the stage. As she was wheeling a stack of chairs off the stage she slipped on a tarpaulin sheet left on the stage.

She suffered a broken leg and was taken to hospital for an operation. Unfortunately, despite excellent medical treatment she was left with pain in her foot which made it difficult to kneel or walk long distances.

We were able to show that the local council had insurance to cover voluntary helpers. Although the council denied responsibility for the accident we were able to negotiate settlement of our client's claim, without going to court, for £80,000, more than five times the defendant's first offer of £15,000 made just six months earlier.

Case handler

The case was handled by Philip Baldwin, an associate and team leader in our Personal Injury department. With more than 10 years' experience dealing with claimant and defendant personal injury claims, Philip is also responsible for Access Legal from Shoosmiths' Law Society accredited personal injury training programme.

Contact us if you could like to discuss your claim.

Client testimonial

"A very impressive and efficient service. My case was considered with the utmost courtesy, kindness and respect. A big thank you to all involved."

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