Law Bulletin - May 2010

Highway authority responsible for drop in verge next to road when driver skids on to it [Liability]

There was a four to 12-inch drop from the road to the verge next to it. West Sussex County Council had filled it in with topsoil about four years before to bring it level with the road.

Manual Handling cases : risk assessments are key - Heavy door [Thompsons’ cases]

The claimant was a joiner, working for the defendant.

Manual Handling cases : risk assessments are key - Awkward shelf [Thompsons’ cases]

The claimant was asked to put up shelving by his employer. He was not given any instructions or equipment. He asked for step ladders but was told to use a chair. He was 5ft 7in tall and the shelving unit was to be placed 6ft 6in above the floor.

Supervision of children with behaviour problems [Thompsons’ cases]

The defendant’s school provided accommodation for children with learning disabilities and with challenging behaviour. The claimant was supervising a 15 year old who was known to have volatile behaviour and also to have a propensity to mess around with electrical equipment, which could lead to danger to others.

Insurers offer Arsenal tickets [Damages]

There is more to a damages claim than just plain cash, particularly if you receive a report from the right rehabilitation expert.

Pursuing negligence over forceps birth after 32 years [Liability]

Yet another limitation case from the Court of Appeal.