More Than an Injury: Securing Fair Compensation After a Life-Changing Hand Injury at Work
When our client sustained a serious hand injury at work, the impact was immediate and far-reaching. Beyond the physical injury itself, the accident affected their ability to work, drive, perform everyday tasks, and continue hobbies they had previously enjoyed. From the outset, Step Legal Limited focused on ensuring that the claim reflected the full consequences of the injury not just the obvious ones.
The claim was handled with a clear strategy: build the strongest possible evidential foundation, value the claim accurately and negotiate doggedly, while keeping the client fully informed at every stage.
Starting Right and Putting our Client at Ease.
From the initial consultation, our solicitor and head of personal injury at Step Legal, Anna Rushton, took a careful and methodical approach. The client was advised that maximising compensation would depend on clear, honest and well-supported evidence.
Anna also explained all available funding options in clear and straightforward terms. Together, they agreed to proceed under a no win no fee arrangement (a Conditional Fee Agreement), meaning our client would not pay any legal fees if her claim was unsuccessful. If the case succeeded, any success fee would be strictly capped. Transparency with clients is a value we hold in high regard here at Step Legal.
This confident and reassuring start laid the foundation for a strong solicitor-client relationship built on assurance and trust.
Medical Evidence and Long-Term Impact
A key element of the claim was, of course, the medical evidence. An expert hand surgeon was instructed to prepare a detailed report, which was shared with the client for review before being finalised. The solicitor explained how the expert’s opinion, particularly on prognosis would directly influence the value of the claim.
The report documented the amputation injury, ongoing abnormal sensation and difficulties with fine manipulation. It also addressed care needs and the client’s inability to drive. While some improvement was expected over two years, the expert confirmed that a full return to normal function was unlikely. The solicitor advised that, should symptoms persist beyond expectations, further medical evidence could be obtained to strengthen the claim.
Capturing Every Financial Loss
Considerable care was taken in preparing the Schedule of Special Damages. This included loss of earnings for 14.5 weeks’ absence from work, calculated using net average weekly earnings and adjusted to reflect any payments received during that period.
The solicitor also accounted for support provided by family members, including assistance with personal care, household tasks and travel to medical appointments. Appropriate hourly rates were applied to each category of care. In addition, multiple hospital journeys, approximately 80 miles per trip were carefully documented and costed.
Before finalising the schedule, the client was invited to confirm whether any additional expenses or losses had not yet been included, ensuring nothing was overlooked.
Valuation, Authority and Clear Advice
Once the evidence was complete, the solicitor provided a clear valuation of the claim, placing it within a 5-digit bracket for total damages.
Written authority was obtained to negotiate within this range and, if necessary, to issue court proceedings. The use of electronic signatures allowed the claim to progress efficiently without unnecessary administrative delays.
Strategic Negotiation and Risk Management
Negotiations were conducted confidently and with purpose. An initial offer at the top end of the valuation bracket reflected the solicitor’s confidence in the evidence and the strength of the claim. When a counteroffer was received below the valuation range, the client was advised not to accept immediately.
The solicitor carefully explained the risks and potential benefits of continuing negotiations, including the possible cost consequences under Part 36 of the Civil Procedure Rules. A further counteroffer was then made within the authorised bracket, with the client kept fully updated throughout.
Consistent Communication and Client Involvement
Clear communication was a priority from start to finish. The client received regular updates on progress, medical experts, medical reports, the defendants’ insurers’ position and any review schedules, as well as straightforward explanations of legal principles such as Qualified One Way Cost Shifting. Each negotiation step was discussed in advance, allowing the client to make decisions with complete confidence.
A Successful Resolution
Following robust negotiations, an improved offer within the authorised valuation range was secured and accepted as a full and final settlement. Legal costs were recovered in addition, and all deductions under the conditional fee agreement were again explained clearly.
Payment arrangements were handled securely, with reminders provided about cybercrime risks when transferring funds. Digital tools were used throughout to ensure efficiency and security.
The client expressed their appreciation for the solicitor’s diligence, clarity and support throughout what had been a challenging period. The outcome delivered not only fair financial compensation but also reassurance that every aspect of the claim had been handled with care and precision.
Conclusion
This case reflects Step Legal’s commitment time and time again to ensuring our clients receive phenomenal service, not just in terms of outcomes, but also in terms of how our clients feel and are treated throughout their time with us.
At Step Legal, we don’t just handle claims. We stand beside our clients, fight tirelessly for what they deserve and make sure they feel supported every step of the way.
If you’re looking for solicitors who combine expertise and technical knowledge with compassion and determination, Step Legal is here to help.
Contact us at 0800 195 6412 today.
You can also enquire our email: enquiries@steplegal.co.uk
