Bangor worker paralysed after falling 30ft wins £10m from employer - BBC News
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Worker paralysed in 30ft fall from pylon gets £10m payout
Image source: Champion News
Gavin Pugh, aged 33, was left paralysed after falling 30ft from a power line while dismantling a pylon in April 2022. He sued his employer, Wood Transmission and Distribution Ltd, after the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) found inadequate safety arrangements in place.
The Cheshire-based firm was fined £240,000 for its part in the incident. Subsequent High Court proceedings brought by Pugh resulted in a care and compensation package worth "eight figures", covering his injuries, lost future earnings, and funding for 24-hour live-in carers and rehabilitation costs exceeding £1m.
Pugh's lawyers described the settlement as a "game changer", allowing him to regain quality of life after suffering "life-changing physical limitations" and "significant psychological consequences".
He shared his gratitude: "I'm fishing and I'm able to get out and about. I'm able to go out with my friends again... albeit not to the same extent, but I'm still happy."
Wood Transmission and Distribution Ltd (now United Infrastructure Power T&D Ltd) has been asked to comment.