ANGLING has thrown a lifeline to a West Midlands man left crippled in a horrific accident at work. Nick Jones, aged 61, from Bromsgrove in Worcestershire has become hooked on the “sport†since he had his legs crushed by a forklift truck in a factory accident in January 2000.
The fisherman spent seven months in hospital and had his left leg amputated below the knee. Six years after the accident there is a risk that he may have to lose his other leg crushed by the five tonne forklift truck.
“I was an active sportsman and hill walker who did some fishing. Playing tennis, table tennis and football are impossible but I can still fish and it’s been a real lifesaver but I wish accessibility was better for disabled anglers,†said Nick.
“Fortunately I can fish for carp in local pools but I wish that I could still fish the rivers but there is nowhere I know of where I can get an accessible peg. I can still just about play a game of snooker after a fashion but angling is my great escape.â€
Nick had his case taken up by Levenes Solicitors who are personal injury specialists based in Birmingham and has just received an out of court settlement of £520,000 from his former employer AvestaPolarit of Credenda Road, Oldbury in the West Midlands. He had worked for the company that make steel products for 17 years before the accident which put a strain on his marriage resulting in it breaking up.
Nick Jones lets his
solicitor Tim Beasley into some of the secrets of fishing!
“The injuries in this case were shocking and left Nick with his life and limbs shattered. He is an amazing man and the money will help him to lead an independent life. It is so easy for people who have serious injuries to give up and having an interest can be a big help in keeping positive. There is no doubt in my mind that fishing has helped Nick,†said Tim Beasley, a partner with Levenes Solicitors.
“We hear so much rubbish about the claims culture but I have never met a client who would have the accident again for the money. No amount of money can replace what Nick has lost but it will at least help him to lead a better life. He wants to buy a bungalow so that he can continue to live at home and I would not be surprised if he buys some new fishing tackle. It would be great if other anglers could offer advice about how Nick can get more from his sport.â€
