Midland Rollmakers U-turn in asbestos claim to agree compensation
Bridget Collier recently settled a claim against Midland Rollmakers, where previous solicitors failed to find evidence of exposure to asbestos. Their false assumption was that two employers had used asbestos in the process of turning metal, but they could not find the evidence to prove it.
Bridget took over the case and turned it around after she spoke at length with the client, watched videos shot in the workplace and spoke extensively to her client's colleagues.
Midland Rollmakers had a huge machine workshop and foundry containing sizeable machinery used to produce metal rolls of around 20 tonne in weight, for use in the steel trade. Around the walls of the building there were numerous pipes for the heating system and foundry which were lagged with asbestos.
The lagging was subject to damage and required regular maintenance. Although Bridget's client had worked on machinery in a separate bay, Bridget discovered evidence that maintenance on the pipes created large amounts of dust. The company did not provide protection for their employees who were duly exposed as they went about their daily work.
Bridget then re-defined the case and returned to the insurers who had previously denied liability. The additional witness evidence was helpful. Consequently, at the point of proceedings being issued, the insurers performed a U-turn and accepted that it was the company's negligence that did indeed cause her client to develop mesothelioma.
The case subsequently settled for a 6-figure sum and in addition, the insurers agreed to pay for recommended treatment that may not be available through the NHS.
Bridget said:
"It was satisfying to succeed in this difficult case that initially did not look positive. Once I had asked about the pipes within the building, it was the information from the witnesses tracked down by my client that was crucial in turning this case around.
"Initial solicitors potentially damaged the chance of success, by disclosing evidence to the Defendants that assumed a white powder coating the metal was asbestos. Fortunately, I was able to overcome this. Without specialist knowledge of industry, these claims are very difficult. I am delighted in the result for my client."
The client said:
"I have had the privilege of knowing Bridget for a couple of years now through recommendation and during this time I have had the opportunity to witness her outstanding qualities, integrity and exceptional character.
"During the time Bridget’s worked on my case I’ve witnessed her remarkable traits through her dedication and determination and have been very impressed by her professionalism and strong work ethic demonstrating competence in her field of work."
Contact us
For further information about asbestos and mesothelioma claims, please call Bridget Collier on 0330 460 6740 or email bridget.collier@fieldfisher.com.
Alternatively
- You can speak to our asbestos disease lawyers on freephone 0800 358 3848
- email us: personalinjury@fieldfisher.com
- Complete the short online enquiry form
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