£14,000 Compensation Secured for Elderly Client Injured in Fall on Belvoir Estate Footpath

Ciaran Keenan of Keenan Solicitors recently helped an elderly client secure £14,000 in compensation after a fall caused by a raised paving slab on a footpath in Belvoir Estate, Belfast. This case demonstrates the importance of instructing an expert solicitor early to capture all evidence and fight to ensure fair compensation for individuals injured due to negligence, without the need for Court action.

The Accident:

While taking his dogs for a walk on the footpaths of Belvoir Estate, our client tripped on a raised paving slab, causing him to fall to the ground in immediate pain. Passersby assisted him, and he attended A&E, where he was diagnosed with a fracture dislocation of his right shoulder.

Our Approach:

• Physical Injury: A fracture dislocation of the right shoulder, which restricted his range of movement and temporarily impeded his lifestyle.
• Emotional Impact: Understandable anxiety about resuming his dog walking activities.
• Thankfully, medical evidence confirmed no long-term complications were expected.

The Injuries:

1. Site Investigation:

• Attended the site with the client to document the defect and understand how the accident occurred.
• Captured detailed photographs of the raised paving slab.
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2. Liability:

• Determined the Department for Infrastructure was responsible for maintaining the area.
• Issued a letter of claim to the Department, alleging negligence in the maintenance of the area.
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3. Medical Evidence:

• Obtained A&E notes, Fracture Clinic records, Physio notes, and GP records.
• Arranged for a Consultant in A&E Medicine to assess our client and prepare a detailed medical report.

4. Settlement Negotiation:

• Entered negotiations with the Department for Infrastructure, resulting in a settlement of £14,000 without the need to issue court proceedings or attend court.

The Outcome:

Our client received £14,000 in compensation, reflecting the impact of his injuries and emotional distress. This resolution allowed him to move forward without the stress of attending court.

Conclusion:

This case highlights the importance of gathering evidence and acting promptly after an accident. If you or someone you know has been injured in a public place, contact Keenan Solicitors today to discuss your case.