Christopher Price of our personal injury team recently secured a five-figure settlement for a young woman who suffered physical and psychological injuries after becoming trapped between lift doors at work.  

Background

In December 2022, our client was using a lift at her place of work shortly after maintenance works had been carried out by a servicing contractor earlier that day. Despite the attendance of engineers, faults with the lift had not been properly identified or fixed before the lift was returned to service.

Believing the lift to be safe to use, our client entered and as she attempted to exit on her floor, the doors suddenly slammed shut, trapping her between them and causing injury. 

The incident was extremely distressing and left our client shaken and in significant pain. 

The Challenge 

As a result of the accident, our client suffered from the following:  

• Soft tissue injuries; 
• Persistent pain symptoms; 
• A chronic pain condition; and,  
• Psychological injuries associated with the traumatic nature of the incident 

The injuries had a substantial impact on her day to day life, wellbeing and ability to work. 

During the course of the claim, expert medical evidence was obtained from orthopaedic, pain management and psychiatric experts to assess the nature of our client’s injuries, the impact upon her daily functioning, and her long-term prognosis. The medical experts also provided recommendations for future treatment and rehabilitation. 

How We Helped 

Investigations into the circumstances of the accident identified failings in the inspection and maintenance of the lift. Following review of service records and other disclosure documents, it was alleged the lift company had failed to properly identify and remedy faults during its attendance earlier that day, resulting in an unsafe lift being returned to operation and use of the general public. 

An admission of liability was secured during the course of the claim, and without proceedings.  

Outcome 

Following negotiation, the claim was successfully resolved pre-issue for a high five figure sum. The settlement reflected: 

• The pain, suffering and loss of amenity caused by the accident; 
• The ongoing nature of our client’s symptoms; 
• The psychological impact of the incident; and,  
• Recommended future treatment and rehabilitation needs. 

 By resolving the matter without the need for court proceedings, our client was able to achieve a timely conclusion to her claim and focus on her continued recovery.  

Impact 

Christopher Price said: 

“I am pleased that this matter has now been successfully resolved. I know how important the case was to our client and the impact it has had on her life. I am delighted that we have been able to help her achieve this outcome and I wish her all the very best for the future.”

The client commented as follows:  

“Christopher and his team were absolutely phenomenal from start to finish. They worked tirelessly on my case over many years, always keeping me informed and updated every step of the way.
Their professionalism, dedication, and genuine care made a difficult process so much easier to navigate. I always felt supported and knew my case was in safe hands.
I can’t thank Christopher and his team enough for their hard work and commitment, and I would highly recommend them to anyone looking for exceptional legal representation.” 

How We Can Help 

If you have suffered an injury following an accident at work or due to unsafe equipment, our specialist personal injury solicitors may be able to help you pursue compensation. 

If you have any questions regarding the above case or need to speak with one of our specialist personal injury solicitors, please email online.enquiries@la-law.com or call 0344 967 0791.