A Devon builder whose leg was amputated beneath the knee following an accident at work has received damages with the support of Thompsons Solicitors. 

James Redwood, 31, was using a mini-digger to complete groundworks at a farm near Tiverton when the vehicle started to topple over. James tried to escape from the digger but it fell, crushing his left leg. 

Doctors initially tried to repair the fractures he suffered in the accident with a bone graft and ultrasound treatment, and put a frame and 14 metal pins in his leg, but when the leg failed to heal they had to amputate beneath his knee. 

James left his job and needed extensive rehabilitation, including the fitting of a prosthetic leg. 

Despite the severity of his injuries and his limited mobility, James has started his own building company, working in property development and renovations. He hopes that, in the future, he will be able to get a specialist prosthetic limb that will allow him to get into running and other sports. 

James instructed serious injury specialists Thompsons Solicitors to make a compensation claim. 

James Redwood, amputation client
James Redwood, amputation client

“I’ve tried my best not to let this injury change my life or who I am, but I’d be lying if I said the past few years haven’t been incredibly difficult,” he said. “I wasn’t sure what to expect when I turned to Thompsons but I’m glad I did – without them I wouldn’t be in the position I am today. 

“I’m feeling positive about the future and hope that new and improved prosthetics will allow me to have greater mobility, not just for work but for general day-to-day activities and running. 

“That being said, I do feel very let down by my employer. I wish that they’d taken health and safety more seriously because, if they had, I wouldn’t be relying on prosthetics now.” 

Paul Rosser, of Thompsons Solicitors, said: “Safe systems of work are important in any type of job, but in construction and roles involving heavy machinery they are absolutely vital. The consequences of failing to have proper health and safety can often be catastrophic, as James’ case sadly illustrates. 

“His outlook towards life is inspirational and we wish him the best of luck with his business and rehabilitation, but the fact remains that he was let down by his employer. Thankfully our serious injuries specialists were able to ensure that the employer was held to account.”