Redlich's Work Injury Lawyers recently assisted a teacher in obtaining a pain and suffering settlement in excess of $60,000.
Our client was an employee of the Department of Education and Training and had fallen over on a sloped path whilst attending a school camp. The fall resulted in an injury to her pinky finger, after it had become stuck in a rainwater grate. She required two surgeries and, although she has now returned to casual employment, unfortunately she was left with a permanent deformity that resulted in restrictions in using her left hand.
Our client, prior to seeking the assistance of our office, lodged a WorkCover claim and sought lump sum compensation for her injury. The assessment did not meet the relevant threshold to be awarded compensation, so she referred the claim to the Medical Panel. Unfortunately, the Medical Panel opinion was unfavourable and she was unable to receive lump sum compensation for her injury. Following this, she came to Redlich's Work Injury Lawyers for further advice in relation to a potential common law claim to seek damages.
Despite the uncertainties in obtaining a Serious Injury Certificate, our office prepared the application against multiple Defendant’s, and attended the camp site to visualise and prepare our client’s allegations of negligence.
The client successfully obtained a Serious Injury Certificate from WorkSafe Victoria and negotiations were conducted to settle her claim for pain and suffering, without the need for court proceedings to be issued.
The matter highlighted that injuries can result in accepted WorkCover claims even if they do not occur on the school premises. As long as the injury arises out of or in the course of employment, then a WorkCover claim should be made.
Despite what appeared to be a difficult situation, Redlich's Work Injury Lawyers was extremely pleased to be able to assist the client in finalising her matter with a positive outcome. Given the challenges the client faced prior to seeking our advice, we also strived to make the ongoing process as stress-free and comfortable for the client.
If you have been injured at or during the course of your employment, or you are unsure whether your injury occurred as part of your employment, contact our WorkCover lawyers on (03) 9321 9988 for a free consultation.
