Home / Disasters and Accidents / Paralyzed Worker Wins £10M After 30ft Fall
Paralyzed Worker Wins £10M After 30ft Fall
11 Oct
Summary
- Worker fell 30ft from a power line, suffering paralysis.
- Company fined £240,000 for inadequate safety arrangements.
- Compensation package worth at least £10m secured for care and rehabilitation.
A maintenance worker's life was irrevocably altered in April 2022 when he fell 30 feet from a pylon, resulting in paralysis. The incident occurred because his safety line was attached to an improperly secured section. This fall caused severe injuries, including to his brain and neck, necessitating lifelong wheelchair use. The Health and Safety Executive identified that the employer, Wood Transmission and Distribution Ltd, failed to implement adequate safety arrangements.
Following the incident, the Cheshire-based firm was fined £240,000 in 2024. The worker, who was 33 at the time of the accident, subsequently pursued High Court proceedings. His legal team successfully negotiated an out-of-court settlement valued at "eight figures." This significant compensation package is designated for his ongoing care, extensive rehabilitation, and lost future earnings.
The worker expressed gratitude for the settlement, stating it allows him to regain aspects of his former life, including resuming hobbies like fishing and socializing with friends. The compensation aims to facilitate his recovery and improve his quality of life following the life-changing injuries sustained due to the company's safety shortcomings.
