Damages claim settles for death in abattoir

Damages claim settles for death in abattoir

Redlich's Work Injury Lawyers recently settled a damages case for in excess of $1 million for a client whose husband was killed delivering sheep at an abattoir in northern Victoria. The tragic accident occurred when the abattoir's unloading ramp collapsed without warning, fatally injuring the truck driver. He was survived by his wife and 3 young primary school aged children. Redlich's Work Injury Lawyers assisted the widow to sue for damages, claiming for the financial loss arising from her husband's death, as well as the value of the domestic services and home maintenance which he provided to the family. The calculation of such loss is an extremely difficult task, especially for cases like this where the deceased person ran their own business. We often use expert forensic accountants to ensure the deceased's business and financial arrangements are properly understood, to ensure maximum damages can be claimed. The abattoir was prosecuted by WorkSafe and ultimately pleaded guilty to several offences, resulting in a $250,000 fine. That penalty was appealed by the Office of Public Prosecution, on the basis that it was inadequate. That appeal has been heard and we are awaiting the Court's decision in it. Both the damages payout and the WorkSafe prosecution and fine are small comfort to a family who are still trying to rebuild their lives after this avoidable loss. Accidents at work can have traumatic consequences for victims and their families. If you or someone you know has been injured at work, we invite you to speak to one of our expert injury lawyers on (03) 9321 9988.

No Win, No Fee. No Uplift Fee.

Our No Win, No Fee and No Uplift Fee arrangement means you will only pay legal fees if your claim is successful. *Conditions apply

Learn more

Call and speak to our legal team

At Redlich’s our legal team answer the phone so that you receive free legal advice straight away.  No Win, No Fee. No Uplift Fee.

Redlich's Work Injury Lawyers

Redlich's Work Injury Lawyers is a division of Holding Redlich © 2022
Level 6, 555 Bourke Street, Melbourne, 3000

Read our privacy policy

Provide feedback