Recent News

Pleural Plaques Compensation Scheme – am I eligible?

09/08/10

After a long wait the compensation scheme for those suffering from pleural plaques has now been put into action.

Pleural Plaques Update

29/07/10

In February 2010 Justice Secretary Jack Straw confirmed that compensation will now be payable to victims of Pleural Plaques who started their claim for compensation before the 2007 ruling.

Injured Pedestrian wins appeal against Council over unkempt bushes

16/07/10

A female pedestrian has won the right to claim damages from a local authority that failed to trim bushes planted on a highway’s central reservation. Pervin Yetkin was hit by a taxi as she crossed Stratford High Street against the traffic lights. The Court of Appeal ruled on 13th July that the council was in breach of its duty of care to maintain the hedge properly, and her view of oncoming traffic was obscured as a result.

Some ‘handy’ advice

06/07/10

Vibration White Finger is a form of Reynaud’s disease and is also known as Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS). It is an industrial injury that commonly affects employees who use hand held vibratory tools regularly throughout their employment.

Third Party Capture

01/07/10

Here at Mercury Legal, we are becoming increasingly concerned with the issue of Third Party Capture. This is the practice were innocent victims of road traffic accidents are contacted by the insurers of the fault party who attempt to settle their claim direct without the victim having the chance to consult a lawyer. Fundamentally, this is wrong. Unfortunately, there is nothing to stop insurers doing this. Clearly, without receiving legal advice, the average person on the street will have little idea of the value of their claim. Insurance companies know this and will therefore often attempt to settle the claim at an under value.

PLEURAL PLAQUES Latest News

04/06/10

BREAKING NEWS Jack Straw confirmed yesterday that payments of £5,000 will be made to pleural plaques sufferers who had started proceedings before the court ruling 2007. The scheme should starting running at the end of June 2010.

FULL DETAILS ARE YET TO BE RELEASED AND WE WILL UPDATE OUR WEBSITE AS SOON AS FURTHER INFORMATION IS AVAILABLE. ANYONE WHO THINKS THEY MAY BE AFFECTED BY THIS ANNOUNCEMENT SHOULD COMPLETE OUR CONTACT FORM OR CALL US FREE ON 0800 6127703

The Dangers of The Nail Bar

17/05/10

The HSE has released guidance for employers and employees to ensure compliance with the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 to control exposure and protect workers health.

Is your Personal Trainer damaging your Health?

28/04/10

Personal trainers have a duty to provide tailored exercise routines which not only meet the specific training goals of the client but also do not put the client at risk of personal injury. Personal trainers must be mindful to keep programmes within safe parameters taking into consideration the client's level of fitness whilst also taking into account relevant past medical history.

Stopping extension damage - Women Who Have Hair Extensions Risk Developing Bald Patches

16/04/10

Following on from our recent article about the unregulated use of sun beds and tanning salons and the risks to the health and safety of those who use them. Hair extensions is another fast emerging trend. With the popularity of hair extensions on the rise, many people are opting to attach artificial hair rather than go through the hassles of growing long hair. While extensions are usually applied by the stylists, the hair extensions do it yourself methods have become equally popular.

Action needed to combat Mobility Scooter related Accidents

08/04/10

It is estimated that up to 330,000 mobility scooters are in use in the UK currently. The scooters are often an invaluable resource for the elderly and infirm but are seen by pedestrians as a nuisance and even a hazard.

Potential world class athlete sues coach for injury

08/04/10

This case was brought against a coach (Defendant) who had managed the athlete (Claimant) for about six years; the athlete was of world class potential.

Fun and games day (senior aircraftsman sues MOD and others)

06/04/10

This claim was brought against the MOD and others. The RAF organised a fun day, the event included games and races in the open air played by teams representing different RAF flights. The Claimant was asked to participate in a game called "the pool game". The rules of the game were to jump into an inflatable pool (set on a level grass), grab a piece of plastic fruit floating or under the water, carry it out of the pool to the next team member.

A Slippery Slope

06/04/10

A case was heard in the Court of Appeal on 16th March 2010 where the level of a Ski Instructor’s duty of care was considered. This particular case was a claim for damages for personal injury arising out of an accident on a skiing holiday in Bulgaria.

Footballer jailed for horror tackle

05/04/10

A footballer was recently jailed for six months for a "career ending" tackle on another player. Mark Chapman tackled 26-year-old Terry Johnson with his studs showing during a Rugby and District Sunday League game last year. Mr Johnson said both his tibia and fibula were snapped and a metal rod and four bolts will remain permanently in his leg. Chapman pleaded guilty to grievous bodily harm at Warwick Crown Court.

No fault compensation for Miners Knee/Osteoarthritis

05/03/10

Recent discussions in Parliament regarding the 'Miners Knee' compensation debate have made reference to a No-Fault Compensation Scheme. A No-Fault Compensation Scheme is where the entitlement to compensation is not linked to the ability to prove that a person's injuries were due to the fault of others. A scheme such as this was introduced for miners pneumoconiosis claims.

Asbestos Pleural Plaque

26/02/10

BREAKING NEWS Jack Straw MP announced on 25th February 2010 that at the present time the Government do not intend to overturn the House of Lords decision denying compensation payments to sufferers of asbestos pleural plaque. He did however state that a one off payment of £5000 is to be made available to those who had already started a legal case prior to the 2007 ruling.

FULL DETAILS ARE YET TO BE RELEASED AND WE WILL UPDATE OUR WEB SITE AS SOON AS FURTHER INFORMATION IS AVAILABLE. ANYONE WHO THINKS THEY MAY BE AFFECTED BY THIS ANNOUNCEMENT SHOULD COMPLETE OUR CONTACT FORM BELOW OR CALL US FREE ON 0800 6127703

Clear as Mud (or ice)

14/01/10

As the country continues to be hit by "the big freeze" it is no surprise that the number of people suffering injury by slipping on snow or ice is increasing rapidly. Indeed, it is expected that record numbers of people will be seeking compensation for those injuries from their local council, private households or businesses for their injuries.

Why don't people clear the ice from outside their home or business?

12/01/10

The recent heavy snow and low temperatures have caused chaos across the country. The ice and snow has caused treacherous conditions for drivers and pedestrians. Many businesses and schools are closed due to the extreme weather conditions that have gripped the country over the last week or so. However, what seems to be gripping the public at the moment is the question: what are we allowed to do about the dangerous conditions on our pavements?

Hair today, gone tomorrow

11/01/10

It may surprise, even shock you to know that the next time you go to the hairdressers, the person working on your hair has absolutely no requirement to be qualified or indeed trained to work on you! Despite hairdressers playing a major part of our everyday life, it is one of the few industries left that is not governed by compulsory regulation.

Pleural Plaque Victims Still Waiting

08/01/10

Following on from our previous news articles, despite the fact that the Government has been promising a decision for nearly a year, Pleural Plaques legislation was not mentioned in the recent Queens speech but has been raised during Prime Minister Question time this week.

RNID warns against tinnitus "cure" websites.

08/01/10

In recent weeks there has been national media coverage of websites which claim to 'cure' tinnitus. RNID, the largest charity representing the 9 million deaf and hard of hearing people in the UK, have warned “there is little scientific proof that the therapies or services they are selling have any benefit at all”

Employers told to tackle work stress -NICE

21/12/09

The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence has now published some detailed guidance for employers on promoting mental wellbeing at work: http://guidance.nice.org.uk/PH22

Vibration White Finger-It's not too late to claim!

21/12/09

The recent County Court decision of Cordell v Translink Joint Venture on the 18th of November 2009, gives new hope to vibration white finger sufferers who may believe that it is too late to make a claim for compensation.

A sign of the times

15/12/09

We have all seen the news reports that there are increasing numbers of uninsured vehicles on the roads. It stands to reason that some of these vehicles will be involved in accidents.

Do I have to let my insurance company run my car crash claim for me?

03/12/09

This is a question we are asked time and again, and the short and unequivocal answer is NO.

Employers are responsible for your colleagues actions

15/10/09

We are continually surprised by the number of enquiries we receive for work place injuries and accidents that have been caused by the actions, or lack of them, of work colleagues.

Road Traffic Accidents - Legal costs

24/09/09

The issue of solicitor’s costs for pursuing road traffic accident claims has been in the press once again following an announcement by the Ministry of Justice in relation to what are known as ‘fixed fees’. Mercury Legal Solicitors would like to reassure all of our clients that we recover our costs in full from the at fault party and we do not make any charge to our clients or deduct any money from your compensation award. 

Asbestos in Schools

24/09/09

The temptation for a person to exaggerate their symptoms following an accident may be strong for some people, but the tale of one particularly Claimant highlights the folly of doing so.

The claimant in question, a 45 year old lady from Preston, Lancashire, had been involved in a road traffic accident in 2001. As a result of the accident, she claimed to have developed fibromyalgia, a serious and debilitating condition. She said that she was unable to walk more than 10 paces 'on a good day' and had to give up work.

Be sure your sins will catch you out!

13/08/09

The temptation for a person to exaggerate their symptoms following an accident may be strong for some people, but the tale of one particularly Claimant highlights the folly of doing so.

The claimant in question, a 45 year old lady from Preston, Lancashire, had been involved in a road traffic accident in 2001. As a result of the accident, she claimed to have developed fibromyalgia, a serious and debilitating condition. She said that she was unable to walk more than 10 paces 'on a good day' and had to give up work.

Sports Injury

28/07/09

We are constantly reminded that we need to take more exercise and to keep fit for our own wellbeing. It is encouraging to note that as a consequence of this more and more people are taking part in organised sports and other recreational activities such as spending more time in the gym.

Government prolongs agony for pleural plaque victims

09/07/09

As reported in our earlier news articles, the Government previously issued assurances that they would make an announcement on the future of pleural plaques compensation payments by the 21st July 2009. That deadline has now come and gone and the situation remains as uncertain as ever.

Good news for Claimants....New decision makes it easier for Claimants to recover car hire fees

09/07/09

A Claimant is under a duty to keep expenses incurred following a road traffic accident to a minimum; this is known as the duty to mitigate loss. Failure to do so can result in a reduction in the amount the Court is willing to award in damages and can ultimately mean the Claimant is out of pocket.

Holiday Hell

07/08/09

It is that time of year again when people are preparing to go on their holidays. Bags are being packed, the stress of getting the kids ready, facing the inevitable delays at the airport and hoping that the annual trek to far off places turns out to be all the brochure promises.

Pension blow for asbestos victims

07/08/09

The Industrial Injuries Advisory Council has this month published its recommendations in relation to asbestos related pleural plaques following a referral from the Secretary of State for Works and Pensions. The Council has upheld its previous recommendations that pleural plaque are not added to the list of prescribed industrial diseases for which sufferers can claim a tax free weekly pension.

Asbestos related pleural plaques - new legislation on the horizon

03/07/09

The Damages (Asbestos Related Conditions) Bill, a Private Members Bill presented by Andrew Dismore - the Labour MP for Hendon - passed through its committee stage this week once again raising hopes for thousands of workers affected by the condition that compensation may become available in the future.

Casual attitudes?

08/06/09

The summer months are a great time to be in the hospitality industry due to the inevitable boom in the pub trade and the fact that the summer is prime time for weddings. This is despite the summers in this country leaving a lot to be desired!

“Does Size Really Matter”

08/06/09

There is a common misconception amongst some potential claimants that if they work for only a small business that either they shouldn't pursue a claim or cannot pursue a claim.

“Textile Workers Noise Induced Hearing Loss Victory”

03/06/09

On the 22nd of May 2009 an important Judgment was handed down from the Court of Appeal in the case of Baker v Quantum Clothing Group (1) Meridian (2) Pretty Polly Limited (3) in which the Claimant succeeded.

"To wear or not to wear ... a helmet that is"

07/05/09

There has been a recent High Court decision in the matter of Smith v Finch that has opened up the possibility of a cyclist that is not wearing a helmet having their damages reduced by way of what is called, contributory negligence.

"Asbestos related pleural plaques"

01/05/09

Asbestos related pleural plaques Further to our recent news reports on the ongoing asbestos related pleural plaques compensation struggle, Mercury Legal solicitors would advise that the already complex situation has been thrown into fresh turmoil as a result of a challenge to the Damages (Asbestos related conditions)(Scotland) Act which received Royal Assent in April 2009.

"Beat knee/Miners Knee recent legal developments"

16/04/09

There has been a lot of press coverage relating to Beat Knee and knee injuries in general recently, the majority relating to the mining industry and mineworkers suffering from a condition which has become most commonly known as 'Miners knee'.

"Government Launch A New Website to Highlight Problems of Work Related Stress"

30/03/09

Government research in 2007/2008 has shown that an estimated 442,000 individuals in Britain, who worked in the last year, believed that they were exposed to work related stress at a level that was making them ill. Estimates also indicate that self-reported work related stress, depression or anxiety accounted for approximately 13.5 million working days lost in Britain in 2007/2003 (Labour Force Survey).

Asbestos - Pleural Plaques Update

30/03/09

Our dedicated Industrial disease lawyers have welcomed the recent publicity surrounding the asbestos related pleural plaques. The Daily Mirror newspaper, amongst others, has recently ran a campaign to raise awareness of the complaint and we now hope that the Government will respond to mounting pressure and finally step in to end the uncertainty and reinstate compensation payments to those whose lives have been affected by this industrial disease.

Claims Culture - Fact or Fiction ?

30/03/09

The press and insurance industry would have you believe that there is an out of control claims culture, that we are creating a society of victims who claim at the drop of a hat. Amongst all the hyperbole and hysteria that these myths create there are some striking statistics. It is generally accepted that of all the compensatable accidents or diseases only approx one third of people will claim. This will therefore include victims of horrendous working conditions who have been exposed to dangerous substances such as asbestos, hardworking people who struggle to hear due to the loud noise they were exposed to, people who have suffered career threatening injuries at work, people who suffer serious injuries in car crashes. The list goes on.

Sunbeds

30/03/09

You may have seen in the press recently a lot of debate surrounding sunbeds and tanning salons and the risks to the health and safety of those who use them. In Scotland it is illegal for under-16s to use tanning salons but no such law in England exists. There is an ongoing debate as to whether there needs to be a similar law in England and Wales as we hear more and more horror stories of young people being severely injured and in some cases dying of skin cancer due to the over use of sunbeds.

Where to turn when you have a crash?

25/02/09

Where do most people who have had an accident turn to as their first port of call? In the majority of cases, it is their insurance company, but is this the right decision?

No time to waste

20/02/09

Under UK law claims for personal injury are subject to the terms of the Limitation Act which does mean that it is important clients contact us as soon as they possibly can if they feel that they may have a claim for compensation. Legal proceedings must, as a general rule, be started in Court within three years or else the case may be time barred (sometimes referred to as being statute barred) and unable to proceed any further unless the Court feels it appropriate to exercise its discretion in your favour.

Sofa allergies, rashes and burns compensation claims

04/01/09

In late 2006, consumers who had purchased leather sofas from some of the country's leading furniture retailers started to experience nasty skin allergies, rashes and burns. Some consumers even complained that they required hospital treatment. Over the last year or so consumers have been approaching these retailers through specialist firms of personal injury solicitors to obtain answers and compensation.

Experts were instructed to investigate the cause of these skin complaints and the link to the sofas in question. It soon became apparent that the manufacturer of the offending sofas had placed sachets of a chemical (known as Dimethyl Fumarate or more commonly DMF) either in the cushion material or immediately underneath the leather. Simply, the chemical in the sachets can transform into toxic gas which passes onto the skin causing the rash.

Changes to the Motor Insurance Database Information System (MIDIS)

04/01/09

When we receive a new Road Traffic Accident claim, one of the first things that we do is search the Motor Insurance Database to try and locate third party insurance details.

This system works by putting in the third party registration number and the accident date and waiting for an email to confirm the insurance details.

Our expansion continues

03/01/09

Mercury Legal is pleased to announce the arrival of three new staff members in the last month. Lisa Maguire joins from Lees Lloyd Whitley solicitors and will be working in our industrial disease compensation team. Ciara Campbell arrives from Canter Levin and Berg Solicitors and will also work in our industrial disease compensation team.

Asbestos related Pleural Plaques

03/01/09

Asbestos related pleural plaque remains a topic of considerable debate and disagreement and no doubt you have seen the extensive press coverage surrounding the issue recent months.