Workers Compensation – Scaffolding Collapse $1,300,000 Multiple Injury Claim (NSW)
The Incident
We were instructed by Michael, an experienced construction worker who was working on scaffolding at a building site when part of the structure collapsed beneath him. Michael fell approximately four metres to the level below, sustaining multiple serious injuries.
Serious Injury and Medical Treatment
Michael suffered lumbar spine fractures, a fractured pelvis, multiple rib fractures and a serious shoulder injury. He was transported to hospital and required extensive treatment, followed by a lengthy period of rehabilitation and physiotherapy. His spinal and pelvic injuries caused persistent pain and significantly reduced his mobility, while his shoulder injury affected lifting, reaching and other upper-body activities.
The Long Road to Recovery
Before the accident, Michael’s work was physically demanding and involved climbing, lifting, carrying materials and working at height. Following the fall, he was unable to return to those duties. Even after extensive treatment, he continued to experience pain and physical restrictions that affected his work capacity, independence and everyday life. For an experienced construction worker whose skills and employment history were centred on manual work, the consequences for his future earning capacity were significant.
Why Specialist Legal Advice Was Required
Michael’s claim required investigation into the circumstances surrounding the scaffolding collapse and the safety measures that were in place at the time. It was also necessary to establish the full extent of his injuries, his future treatment needs and the effect his permanent restrictions would have on his ability to return to construction work.
Legal Support and Advocacy
Garling&Co gathered detailed medical and occupational evidence addressing Michael’s spinal, pelvic, rib and shoulder injuries. We also documented how the accident had affected his capacity to undertake physical work and the financial consequences of losing the ability to return to the type of employment he had performed before the accident.
Securing a Life-Changing Outcome
Michael’s claim ultimately resolved for $1,300,000 in compensation. The outcome provided important financial security and allowed Michael to focus on his ongoing treatment, rehabilitation and adjusting to a working life that looked very different from the one he had before the accident.
Our Commitment
At Garling&Co, we are committed to supporting clients through the impact of serious workplace injuries. We provide the expert legal assistance our clients need to reset, reclaim and rebuild their lives.