A refuse collector who was seriously injured when the vehicle in which he was a passenger collided with a parked lorry has won substantial damages from his local authority employer.

The man was aged 22 when the accident happened. The vehicle’s cab collapsed on impact and he and the vehicle’s driver had to be cut from the wreckage. His left leg was shattered and had to be amputated above the knee and he also sustained a life threatening chest injury which required exploratory surgery.

Although he has been fitted with a prosthesis, he requires crutches and has to use a wheelchair for longer distances. The local authority, which employed both men and owned the vehicle, accepted liability for the accident and a settlement of £1.8 million in compensation was agreed.

Approving the settlement agreement, which was achieved by the man’s legal team following negotiations, the judge said, “These damages will enable him to enhance his quality of life and, no doubt, will give his parents some comfort as to his future.”

If you would like advice on how to make a personal injury claim, contact a member of our personal injury team. It is important to take advice as soon as possible as there are certain time limits when applying for copmensation.