Because of the devastating impact of the crash in October 2005, Christopher Hill, 61, from Swanley in Kent, is now only able to drive short distances and has to be accompanied.

He was working as a driver for the Metropolitan Police and was taking a police officer back to the station when a car smashed into the side of his unmarked Mondeo.

Mr Hill worked as a bus driver for 20 years before becoming a civilian driver for the police, a role he held for 18 years. He was forced to take medical retirement and now no longer works.

Following the accident Mr Hill contacted his union Unite which instructed its lawyers, Thompsons Solicitors to pursue a claim for accident compensation.

Thompsons was successful in achieving a settlement from the insurers of driver of the car that struck Mr Hill.

Andy Frampton from Unite said: “Mr Hill has lost his career as a result of this car accident which was no fault of his own. We are only too happy to have supported him in his claim which is an example of how free trade union legal services can help its members.”

Kam Singh from Thompsons Solicitors added: “This accident has had a devastating impact on Mr Hill’s life. The negligence of the other driver meant Mr Hill had to take early retirement and now has a long-term phobia of driving which limits the type of jobs he can undertake and his mobility.”