Badly maintained path causes serviceman to fracture ankle

A man serving with the RAF tripped over a broken kerb stone fracturing his ankle.

Rhys had been carrying his guard commander duty at the main entry point to the RAF base where he was posted.

As part of this duty he had to raise the RAF flag. He had collected the flag and was walking to the flag pole when he his foot slipped. Rhys felt immediate pain in his ankle and a passing colleague came over to help.

Rhys looked to see what had caused him to fall and saw that the kerb stone on the pavement was broken. This was a concern as it was the main thoroughfare for any on guard commander duty so it was likely that someone else could injure themselves and in fact another serviceman had already highlighted the potential danger of the kerb stone.

After medical attention by both the base doctor and the hospital it became apparent that Rhys had suffered a severe fracture to his ankle. He had to undergo an operation to pin the leg and reline his ankle.

His duties were downgraded for 6 months during which time he has been carrying out a teaching post which he is able to do as he can sit down regularly.

The armed forces injury team investigated his claim. Their experience in dealing the MOD meant that they were able to gain a quick admission of liability. Rhys chose to wait until the extent of his injuries were clear before settling the claim and he was awarded £7000 in compensation.

If you would like to seek expert legal advice relating to this case study or any other injury claim please complete the online enquiry form or call 0800 915 4650.

If you would like to seek expert legal advice relating to this case study or any other injury claim please complete the online enquiry form or call 0800 915 4650