Client: Gerard H
Settlement: €737,500.00
Location: Galway, Ireland
Case Type: Construction Site Accident – Personal Injury Claim
Overview: Catastrophic Fall from Scaffolding on a Construction Site
Our client, an experienced construction worker, suffered life-changing injuries after a serious fall from scaffolding while working on a major building project in Galway. He was tasked with sealing windows and fitting flashings to curtain walls at the site. While carrying out these duties, he fell from a height of approximately 20–22 feet, from an unprotected platform, becoming jammed between the scaffolding and the building. The accident resulted in severe injuries, including spinal injuries, thoracic fractures, a skull fracture, and right-sided hemiparesis.
Why Gerard Chose Lacey Solicitors for His Personal Injury Claim
The Health and Safety Authority in Ireland (HSA) investigated the accident involving Gerard. Following their investigation, the HSA confirmed that there was no prosecution pending as a result of their inquiry into the incident.
Gerard was disappointed with this outcome and realised he needed legal representation from lawyers in the Republic of Ireland. Gerard himself was a resident of Belfast and so had only ever dealt with solicitors in Belfast.
Gerard’s previous solicitor advised Gerard that he should appoint personal injury lawyers for his construction accident who are qualified to act in both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. They advised Gerard to speak with Lacey Solicitors who were Insurance specialists and had a proven track record of dealing with serious accident at work claims.
Legal Process: Proving Negligence and Breach of Duty in Construction Accident Claims in Ireland
Lacey Solicitors’ personal injury team launched a thorough investigation into the circumstances of the accident. Key findings included:
- The scaffolding was incomplete and lacked adequate safety measures, such as guardrails and proper platform assembly.
- There was a failure to prepare and communicate a comprehensive Scaffold Plan, and requests for scaffolding adjustments by workers were ignored.
- The main contractor and scaffolding subcontractor had a dispute, leading to dangerous practices and a lack of coordination on site.
- The accident was foreseeable and preventable had proper safety protocols been followed.
Our team retained one of the foremost Chartered Engineers on the island of Ireland, whose expert report highlighted multiple instances of negligence and breach of statutory duty by the defendants. This evidence was crucial in establishing liability and supporting the client’s claim for compensation.
Defendants’ Response
The defendants denied liability from the outset, arguing that the plaintiff was the author of his own misfortune.
Specifically, the defence contended that the plaintiff failed to take reasonable care for his own safety by stepping onto an incomplete and unguarded section of the scaffolding, which was not intended for use. They asserted that the plaintiff’s actions in using the lower, incomplete platform—despite the absence of guardrails and the clear difference in platform levels—amounted to contributory negligence. The defence also maintained that the plaintiff was an experienced construction worker who should have recognised the risks involved and avoided the unsafe area.
This line of argument, if accepted, could have significantly reduced or even defeated the claim, as it directly challenged the plaintiff’s own conduct and decision-making at the time of the accident.
Despite these denials, our experience told us that Gerard had a strong case and armed with the expert evidence and the clear breaches of health and safety regulations, we issued proceedings in the High Court in Dublin.
Outcome: Substantial Compensation for a Life-Changing Injury
Thanks to the determined efforts of Lacey Solicitors, the client secured substantial compensation to cover:
- Medical expenses and ongoing care
- Loss of earnings and future loss of income
- Pain, suffering, and loss of amenity
- Specialist equipment and rehabilitation costs
The settlement took place without the client having to attend court and provided vital financial security and support for the client’s recovery and quality of life.
The client’s entire legal bill was paid by the Defendant and the client kept 100% of his compensation.
Why Choose Lacey Solicitors for Your Construction Accident Claim in Ireland?
Lacey Solicitors are experienced in construction site accident claims, with offices in Belfast and Dublin. Our experienced team has a proven track record of holding negligent parties accountable and securing significant compensation for injured workers. We offer:
- Free, no-obligation consultations
- Expert legal advice and representation
- Access to leading medical and engineering experts across the entire island of Ireland
- Support throughout the entire claims process
Contact Lacey Solicitors Today
If you or a loved one is seeking advice for a construction accident claim in Ireland, contact Lacey Solicitors for expert legal guidance. We are committed to helping you secure the compensation you deserve.
Contact us via our online form or call our Belfast or Dublin offices today.
