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23rd May 2008

Paramedic secures compensation for injury after van runs red light

Crash between Ambulance and Van injured Paramedic

UNISON and Thompson's solicitors have won £62,856 compensation for a North East Ambulance Service paramedic who was injured after a van driver overshot a red light and collided with his ambulance. David Fenwick, 55, of Sunderland, Tyne and Wear, suffered a serious shoulder injury that required two operations, when the van crashed into the ambulance at the traffic lights of Barnes Giratory System, Sunderland.

At the time of the accident in June 2005, Mr Fenwick was in the passenger seat of the ambulance which was driving through a green light. As it approached the junction, a van sped through a red light and crashed into the ambulance, throwing Mr Fenwick to the left.

Mr Fenwick was forced to take time off work, and when eventually he did return to work was put on light duties. As well as suffering pain, the injury prevented him from carrying out everyday tasks, such as household chores and decorating.

Road Accident could have been fatal

Commenting on the incident, Mr Fenwick said: “Thankfully I was wearing my seatbelt so the injury wasn’t as bad as it might have been. Even so, it was a huge shock, even in my profession, and highlights the dangers of running a red light. The driver of the van could have killed himself as well as others.”

Liz Twist, UNISON Head of Health, Northern region, said: "Reckless driving caused pain and injury to a man who spent his working life caring for others. I am pleased that UNISON was able to help gain compensation for David, but I am sure he would far rather have the full use of his arm than any amount of money."

Mr Fenwick’s representative at Thompsons Solicitors, Michelle Reid-Mitchell, said: “Mr Fenwick’s injury was not as bad as first thought. However, he was in a lot of pain and we were not happy with the initial diagnosis. Further medical investigation revealed the true extent of Mr Fenwick’s injury for which he has now been properly compensated.”

Compensation Claim Advice

If you or anyone you know has suffered an injury as a result of a road traffic accident, telephone us now for accurate claim advice.

There are strict time limits in place to make any injury claim including claims for Road Accidents. 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.