Damages for Accident Caused by Poorly Fitted Drain Cover

A former Labour Party employee has been awarded £25,000 in compensation for injuries he received in a scooter accident caused by a poorly fitted drain cover.

 

In February 2005 Bob Dixon was travelling home from work on his scooter when he hit a depressed drain cover. As a result, he fell off his scooter, which landed on top of him. His right and left tibia were fractured as well as one of his ribs. His treatment involved the insertion of a metal plate into his right leg and it was seven months before he was able to work again. Mr Dixon has now managed to return to work as a welder but his treatment is ongoing.

 

Mr Dixon brought the case against Newcastle City Council for failing to maintain the road properly. The Council argued, however, that the road had been inspected and despite the drain cover being depressed by 53mm, it was safe. It denied being negligent in maintaining the road but later settled the case for £25,000.