Why did an RSC cage lead to a compensation payout from RM

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An HGV driver working for Royal Mail has won personal injury compensation following an accident caused by a defective cage system.

Door fell from mount
On 12 September 2011 the 57 year-old, from Formby near Liverpool, was at Preston Unit Services removing an RSC cage of mail. All of a sudden the cage door fell from its mounting and hit him, causing a soft tissue injury to his head and face.

Concussion
A doctor's examination later revealed he had been concussed, which naturally required urgent medical attention and treatment. The driver was also forced to take time off work until 21 September.

We arranged medical report
When the driver asked Simpson Millar LLP to pursue a personal injury at work claim, we helped arrange an appointment with a medical expert. The specialist was able to provide a report on which we could base our negotiations with Royal Mail for a reasonable settlement.

Injury risk
Acting for the driver, Lisa Sheldon said the defective equipment had exposed him to a foreseeable risk of injury. "The risk was increased due to someone's failure to close the door properly, and failure to ensure a safe route to manoeuvre the RSCs to the vehicle without unnecessary vibrations.

"Given the driver could not work and lost earnings for 2 weeks after the accident, it was only right that we should vigorously pursue a personal injury claim against his employer. In due course our client received compensation of £1,575."

Top tips to take away:
•The equipment you use at work must be regularly checked by your employer to make sure it's safe
•Be wary of equipment your co-workers might have used before you – not everyone is that careful