£27,000 for hand injury at work

Mr M was operating a foot pedal controlled bending machine when, due to the foot pedal not having a safety guard, he inadvertently triggered it causing his finger to become trapped in the machine. This unfortunately resulted in deep lacerations and three broken bones in his left index finger.

He instructed Aston Knight Solicitors who accepted the case, directed a claim to the relevant insurers and then secured an admission of liability. Thereafter a hand surgeon was instructed who reported that Mr M had suffered permanently shortened finger length with deformity, scarring, reduced range of movement and cold hypersensitivity.

After finalisation of the medical expert evidence negotiations took place concluding in a final settlement of £27,000, which Mr A was delighted to receive.

Senior Solicitor James Winterbottom, who dealt with the case, comments:

This was somewhat a “classic case” of unguarded work equipment causing injury. Employers must take into account the risk of accidental activation of work equipment, particularly when it is the type that could cause serious harm such as saws etc.