The worker, in his 40s at the time, was performing routine maintenance work when the incident occurred. Despite the area being properly signposted and lit, a motorist under the influence of alcohol drove around a safety barrier and hit the man. The impact dragged him along the road before the driver fled the scene. 

He sustained catastrophic injuries, including a serious head injury, internal trauma, and multiple fractures. Complications led to the amputation of both legs. 

After spending months in hospital and undergoing multiple surgeries, the worker required specialist prosthetics, home adaptations, and long-term rehabilitation. 

The driver was later arrested and charged with several offences, including driving without due care and attention and while over the legal alcohol limit, later receiving a driving disqualification. 

Thompsons Solicitors, instructed through the worker’s Unite the Union membership, pursued a claim against the driver’s insurer. Liability was partially admitted. 

Interim payments were secured early in the process, allowing the worker to access private rehabilitation services, specialist prosthetics, and critical support. This early intervention was crucial in helping him regain mobility and independence. 

“Our role goes beyond securing compensation,” said Christalla Christodoulidou, solicitor at Thompsons. “We focus on making sure our clients can access the care, rehabilitation, and equipment they need to move forward. In this case, early interim payments were vital in getting the right medical support, prosthetics, and adjustments to everyday life in place as soon as possible.” 

The final settlement, agreed shortly before trial, ensures lifelong support for care, mobility, and medical needs. It also reflects the worker’s loss of earnings, as he was unable to return to his previous role due to the extent of his injuries. 

“This case demonstrates the devastating impact dangerous driving can have—not only in the moment, but for the rest of a person’s life,” added Christodoulidou. “It’s an important reminder that road safety isn’t just about protecting other drivers—it’s about protecting the workers who keep our communities running.” 

Reflecting on the incident, the worker shared: “I lost everything in a moment. I want to send a clear message to anyone thinking of drink driving: your actions don’t just break the law—they destroy lives. It’s not worth it. 

“I’m incredibly grateful to both Unite and Thompsons for their support. Thanks to their efforts, I’ve been able to start rebuilding my life—but there’s still a long way to go. 

“I can walk my dog, drive, and live life on my terms again. But not everyone has that support or opportunity. I was lucky to have a union behind me. No one should have to face this alone.” 

Unite Director of Legal Services Stephen Pinder said: "Unite is always in the corner of its members and we will fight for them through every possible channel. 

“When our member suffered such extensive injuries it is only right that their union through Unite legal services was there to make sure they got the compensation and support they needed and deserved." 

Unite membership gave the claimant access to expert legal advice and critical interim funding—support that made early rehabilitation possible and laid the foundation for a safer, more independent future.