A UNISON member who was hit by a motorbike as he was crossing a London road has received compensation for his injuries.

The 63-year-old from North London suffered multiple injuries in the accident on Holloway Road in September 2009.

He suffered broken ribs, broken bones in his back and a head injury which has left him with an increased risk of developing epilepsy.

He needed to take five weeks off work and had titanium plates put into his cheek to mend a fractured jaw.

Thompsons Solicitors made claim for compensation

Following the accident he contacted his trade union UNISON which instructed its lawyers Thompsons Solicitors to investigate a claim for compensation. The claim settled out of court.

The UNISON member said: “I’m grateful to UNISON and Thompsons for their help in settling this claim. It was handled efficiently and meant I could concentrate on my recovery rather than on a legal battle.”

A spokesperson for UNISON added: “This case shows the importance of union members making use of the free legal cover they receive when they join. They are covered for incidents and accidents that take place both and in out of work. We were pleased to be able to support our member through this difficult time, so he could use all his energy for his recovery.”

David Thompson from Thompsons Solicitors said: “It is only right our client is compensated for his injuries which have caused him a great deal of pain and anguish. We are pleased we have been able to bring this to a conclusion on his behalf. Motor insurance companies are increasingly referring claimants to their own panel solicitors, who may not provide the same independent legal advice as trade union solicitors.”