Manual worker secures £85,000 after tripping on boulder

Walking along a pavement should be a simple part of the day. 

For Paul, it turned into an accident that would change his life.

The 57-year-old was walking near a North Lanarkshire car park on 7 April 2024 when his foot caught on a large boulder left behind after part of a wall had been demolished. 

He fell heavily onto his shoulder, with no time to break the fall.

Paul recalled the moment vividly: “I tripped on the boulder and went straight down.

“I didn’t even have time to put my hand out to stop myself.

“Being a health and safety rep at work, I knew straight away that shouldn’t have been left there. It was a clear trip hazard.”

He was taken to a minor injuries unit in Glasgow. Further assessment revealed a 4cm tear at the top of his shoulder, and he was told he would need keyhole surgery to reattach the tendons.

Recovery would require weeks in a sling and months of rehabilitation, with strict limits on lifting or working.

Despite months of physiotherapy, the surgery ultimately failed, leaving Paul with permanent symptoms. 

Returning to his physically demanding job as a joiner proved painful and challenging, with every week a test of endurance.

The accident also took a financial and emotional toll. Paul was forced to use around £10,000 of savings to cover bills while off work, and the prolonged recovery left him frustrated and anxious

Paul added: “The news that I’d need surgery and could be off work for six months was devastating.

“I’ve worked hard all my life and never had an operation before. After the surgery, even simple things like getting dressed or tying my laces were a real struggle. 

“It was exhausting and frustrating as I like being busy and active.

“Being stuck at home and not able to do normal things was very difficult. It was a tough eight months.”

Paul decided to seek advice after seeing adverts for Digby Brown on the radio and television. He had never made a claim before and wasn’t sure what to expect.

However when he met Kate Bruce, a solicitor in our Glasgow office, he felt reassured. 

Paul said: “I thought there was nothing to lose, and from the first call, Kate was brilliant.

“She explained every step, kept me updated, and made sure I knew what was happening at all times. I never felt left in the dark.”

During Paul's case the council initially offered £19,000, Kate knew this was not enough for his injuries and continued to carry out investigations, getting reports from an orthopaedic consultant, psychologist, employment expert and pension experts.

After several months of careful negotiation, the council increased their offer to £85,000, which Paul accepted. 

The compensation will help support his family, cover home improvements, and provide a safety net if further treatment is ever needed.

Paul added: “I’m so glad I got advice and didn’t rush into anything.

“The whole process was handled so professionally, and I now feel secure knowing my family is looked after. I can’t thank Kate and the team enough for everything they did.”