Steven Riddell and Henry Carus + Associates

The Story about this WorkCover Claim

Before his workplace injury, Steven was an experienced concreter. He had worked in the concreting industry for over ten years.

His injury occurred after his employer changed the system of work without ensuring the new system was safe.

As a consequence Steven suffered a serious back injury preventing him from working and enjoying his life.

Steven came to Henry Carus + Associates for assistance in understanding his rights under the Victorian WorkCover regime.

Steven faced opposition from WorkCover with respect to both the reason for his injury, the employers responsibility for it, and the value of his claim.

At first instance only a small amount was offered to Steven in settlement of his claim. A realistic and reasonable counter offer was made and rejected and the matter progressed.

At the next step (mediation) the WorkCover offer was increased only slightly. We advised Steven we considered the amount insufficient. We felt that if he preserved he would be awarded a reasonable amount by a jury or a judge.

The matter went to a jury but they could not reach a decision. Following this WorkCover made another higher offer. We again felt a judge would award more and Steven rejected the offer.

Finally, a judge decided the matter in Steven’s favour and Steven was awarded over double the amount last offered by the insurer to settle the matter.

It is not always that we are required to go to such lengths to get just and equitable compensation for our client. However, by Steven trusting our advice and working together with us with time and effort we achieved a great result. Steven received more than double what he would have had he accepted even the last and highest offer made. Steven is very pleased with the outcome and we are happy to have helped

Diligent, caring and professional is how i would describe your firm. Henry, George and Jessica I appreciate your thoroughness, support and patience. Thank you for explaining the process in laymans terms and making yourselves available when i required assurance (which was often)! I found that all of Henry Carus and Associates core values were met as promised. Henry i can't thank you enough for taking me on and being on this long journey with me. Congratulations on the exemplary service and advice which led to a positive result.

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