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News Desk | News Story
18th January 2008
A GMB union member from Gloucestershire has secured substantial damages after he fractured his shoulder and was medically retired from his maintenance job with Transco as a result of unsafe working practices. His claim was handled by GMB law firm and leading personal injury specialists Thompsons Solicitors.
Kevin Meek from Cinderford, Gloucestershire is employed as a maintenance worker by Wales & West Utilities Limited, (WWU) - formerly part of National Grid Transco. He was working with a colleague to close a deep valve chamber at Bridstone, Wye West, in Hereford. They had successfully replaced the first cover but as they were re-positioning the second cover it started to slip before falling into the chamber which was 15 feet deep.
Mr Meek explains: “As a result of the momentum and the weight of the cover, I lost my balance and fell head first into the chamber. I was taken to the Accident and Emergency Department at the Gloucester Royal Hospital and an x-ray of my right shoulder revealed a fracture. I’ve had to have two operations since the accident. My movement is still restricted and I still suffer from pain, so I’ve not been able to return to work with Wales & West.”
Martin Hird, from GMB said: “We’re pleased with the outcome of Kevin Meek’s case, which was settled shortly before it was due to be heard in Court. He was medically retired as a direct result of the injuries, and is now limited in the type of work that he can perform.”
Representing Kevin Meek, Michael Collier from Thompsons Solicitors in Birmingham comments: "This injury has had a devastating effect on Kevin Meek’s personal life. Before the accident he was full of life but he now feels frustrated and depressed. However, his settlement goes to show the understated value of Trade Union membership. The service is absolutely free to members of the GMB and nothing is taken out of their compensation."
If you or anyone you know has suffered an injury at work, telephone us now for accurate claim advice.
There are strict time limits in place to make any injury claim including workplace accident claims. For further information, contact us or visit our Questions Answered page.
Thompsons Solicitors are experts in all personal injury matters. We will be able to advise you whether or not you have a valid claim for compensation. Our specialist personal injury lawyers will be happy to talk you through the process of making a claim in plain English and will be happy to answer any questions or queries you may have. If you do have a valid personal injury compensation claim and you decide to instruct Thompsons Solicitors to deal with the matter for you, we will recover our legal fees from the person responsible for your injury, ensuring that the entire procedure is cost-free for you. Telephone us now on 08000 224 224 or complete one of our online compensation claim forms.