London Underground Injuries Raise Concern by Darrell Joyce
The London Underground is not only one of the oldest and largest metro transport systems in the world but is also one of many attractions that make London a Mecca for tourists from all over the world. Sadly though, the number of people who suffer injury while using the system remains high and for those who suffer injuries it is vital that they know their rights to claim compensation.
Because of the sheer numbers of people using the system each year there are inevitably a number of accidents that affect both staff and passengers alike. In 2007 there were over 1 billion recorded journeys on the tube and a small percentage of these resulted in accident claims.
Passenger Injury
A particularly common form of persoanl injury sustained on the tube is getting caught in the closing doors or getting feet trapped between the train and the platform and this is exactly what happened to one 74 year old woman.
The unnamed woman suffered severe injuries including a broken leg and severe blood loss when her foot was caught in a gap between the train and platform at South Woodford station in December 2008. The lady told reporters that she was still housebound nearly two months after the incident and was seeking compensation from Transport for London.
“The train came into the station and I did what I always do. I stepped forward but suddenly caught my right foot and fell in between the carriage and the platform. The gap was so wide. My leg was stuck down the gap and I fell into the carriage. I was so worried – I thought the train could go at any moment and I was going to lose my leg,” she said.
“I’ve had to pay someone to do the house work and a physio too. I’m now dependent on everyone, and I’m still recovering now” she added
It is not just on the tube itself that injuries can occur as Susan Payne can testify to. Payne was visiting the TfL office in Golders Green tube station for a job interview when she fell down a step and injured her ankle and face.
Payne sought compensation for her injuries and was awarded £23,000 in damages.
“London Underground has a duty of care not only to its employees but also to lawful visitors to its premises. The Judge accepted that whilst many employees may have passed over the step without incident, they would be familiar with the layout of the office. Hopefully it will force London Underground to ensure that all premises are safe in future,” she said.
So, if you have been injured on the Underground or any public transport it is possible that you may be eligible for compensation. Speaking to a qualified injury lawyer could mean you get some restitution for your suffering.
Resources
If you have been injured in a non fault accident while using public transport you may be entitled to make a public liability claim for compensation.
About the Author
Legal and Financial Writer
South Woodford Station
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