Latvian man secures compensation for work accident in Scotland

Andris Taunins is a Latvian national who has been living in the UK for over a decade. At the time of the accident, he was working at a factory in Buckie, Scotland.

Mr Taunins was working at night, unloading boxes from a work van when he fell off the ramp, injuring his hip. His work accident could have been prevented if the work site had been properly lit to allow him to see where he was walking, or if there had been a handrail at the side of the ramp.

“It was very painful but initially I was hoping it was something that would go away in time. But after 1-2 weeks, my hip was still painful and I suspected it was more serious which the doctors confirmed.

“I was off work for a total of 4-5 months as I had to take time off after my two hip operations.”

Worried about making a work accident claim

Digby Brown Solicitors were recommended to Mr Taunins but he was initially worried that there may be difficulties from his employer if we went ahead with a claim on his behalf.

Oana Petre, Solicitor in Digby Brown’s Foreign and Travel team said: “We find that many clients are concerned when making a claim against their employer, which is completely understandable. However, it is very unlikely that any reasonable employer will victimise employees who pursue a claim.

“The claim is made against the employer’s liability insurance policy, which is in place for situations like this.”

Work accident claim for life-long injuries and losses

While Mr Taunins was off work after his 2 hip operations, he lost earnings and required significant help from his partner during his recovery. These elements were included in his claim.

Total hip replacement in future

As a consequence of the injuries from the accident, he has developed post-traumatic osteo-arthritis in his left hip joint. This means that he is likely to require a total hip replacement in the future.

Unable to do a physical job

Mr Taunins is also likely to find it more difficult to do a physical job as time goes on, putting him at a disadvantage on the labour market.

50% more compensation with help of Digby Brown

After our personal injury solicitors raised court proceedings, the employer’s insurers increased their pre-litigation offer by 50%.

Mr Taunins was awarded £75,000 in compensation for his injuries and losses from the work accident.

“The compensation I received definitely exceeded my expectations and the process was very easy.

“It was just a couple of trips to see medical experts and my solicitor, and then answering calls where needed. I knew all the work was being done by Digby Brown, which made it very easy for me.”