LEGAL VICTORIES

LEGAL RMT helpline 0800 376 3706 :: march/april 2025 :: RMTnews 26 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/ An RMT member who sustained multiple injuries whilst walking through a porter cabin has received a compensation settlement of £36,000. The incident occurred when the member made his way to another cabin to collect equipment. Whilst walking, the floor beneath him gave way, causing his left leg to fall through. The injuries sustained included a fracture to the left knee with significant pain, swelling, and restricted movement; pain and bruising to the left shoulder and arm; and pain to the left side of his head, which led to headaches, nausea, dizziness, tinnitus, and reduced short-term memory. The member also reported feelings of stress and anxiety following the accident. Following his ordeal, the member turned to workplace injury experts at Thompsons Solicitors, who brought a claim against the responsible party. Following detailed negotiations with the defendant’s insurers, liability was accepted, and a settlement was secured. This was paid in full to the member without deductions, thanks to his union membership. SPOUSE The wife of an RMT member who suffered injuries after stepping onto a broken drain gate has received a compensation settlement of £6,757.77p following the fall. She was injured when she stepped onto a broken drain gate which caused her to lose balance and fall forward, resulting in bruising and grazing to her left knee, left elbow, and left hand. Following her ordeal, personal injury experts at Thompsons Solicitors were instructed to pursue a claim for compensation through her husband’s access to RMT’s legal services. After detailed negotiations with the other side’s insurers, it was possible to secure a satisfactory settlement without the need for court proceedings. FARE EVADER INCIDENT An RMT member who suffered a broken ligament to the middle finger on her right hand has received compensation following her ordeal. The injury occurred when a fare evader forced open the ticket barrier she was staffing, overstretching her middle finger, causing significant damage. The RMT member instructed workplace injury experts at Thompsons Solicitors to bring a claim for compensation. Through detailed negotiations and correspondence with the other side’s insurers, it was possible to negotiate a satisfactory settlement without the need for court proceedings. The insurers accepted responsibility for the incident, and the member received an out-of-court settlement of £10,924.75, reflecting the severity of her injury and its impact on her personal and professional life. It is hoped that this outcome will assist Health and Safety Representatives in the LEGAL VICTORIES RMT members enjoy full representation in compensation cases without legal fees