WINNING FOR MEMBERS

RMT helpline 0800 376 3706 :: november/december 2024 :: RMTnews 26 LEGAL The union has successfully secured a £14,000 compensation settlement for an RMT member who was injured while cycling after being struck by a vehicle that failed to give right of way. Following the incident, which left the member with six broken ribs and a head injury, the union employed workplace injury specialists Thompsons Solicitors to pursue a compensation claim against the driver responsible for the crash. Liability for the accident was promptly admitted and through detailed negotiations with the driver’s insurers, a satisfactory settlement was reached without the need for court proceedings. The member received the compensation with no deductions thanks to his union membership. TRIPS An RMT member working as a track worker won a compensation settlement of £16,250 after suffering a painful shoulder injury while fulfilling his role as a lookout. The incident occurred when his left foot became caught under loose foot grating, causing him to fall heavily onto his shoulder. The member suffered pain in the left shoulder, resulting in restricted movement and the fall exacerbated a back injury. Since the accident, repairs have been made to the grating in question, highlighting the serious health and safety lapse. Following the ordeal, the RMT member instructed Thompsons Solicitors, experts in workplace injury claims, to pursue compensation. The insurers initially refused to negotiate a settlement, forcing the case to proceed to court. Despite the insurers’ reluctance, a settlement was eventually reached reflecting the severity of the member’s injuries and the personal and professional impact they had. The member has now received the full compensation of £16,250, with no deductions thanks to his RMT membership. LEGAL SUPPORT FOR RMT MEMBERS AT EMPLOYMENT TRIBUNALS If you are experiencing difficulties in the workplace and need advice regarding a potential employment tribunal claim contact the union. In the first instance, ensure that you contact your local RMT Representatives or Regional Organiser. Then complete an L2 – Request for Legal Assistance (available on-line) and send it to your Regional Office with all supporting documentation. RMT’s legal department deals with virtually all cases from assessment to the case’s conclusion at a tribunal for members across England and Wales. The legal department has also submitted claims to Employment Appeal Tribunals. The in-house legal department is now firmly established and employs four solicitors and continues to advise and support members in their work-related criminal cases in the Magistrates Court. This often involves defending members against false allegations made by the public of assault, false allegations of theft and alleged driving offences. Furthermore, it continues to offer tailored advice and support for bus and taxi drivers, in respect of their licensing issues, licensing appeals before the Magistrates Court, driving offences, and in respect of appearances before Traffic Commissioners. The In-house legal department continues to strive to deliver a first-class service to all of members. They are committed to provide a strong service to assist the union through the ever-changing legal landscape and their successes have grown yearly. Your Free legal service covers: • Employment Law – provided by the RMT Legal Department • Access to Personal Injury Lawyers – where 100 per cent of compensation is kept by members. • Access to a basic will service. • Access to special terms for conveyancing, probate, powers of attorney. • Access to special terms for family law related matters. The contact number for the legal department is 020 7084 7260 or go on-line to rmt.org.uk/about/legal-services/ WINNING FOR MEMBERS RMT offers full legal assistance from day one of the union membership including minor accidents