ATL member awarded £2500 for eye damage from student's pen laser

Date: 2010-06-09

The Compensation Agency awarded a teacher from Northern Ireland £2500 damages for injuries suffered when a pupil shone a laser pen light into his right eye on two occasions. 

The eye became inflamed and painful, and the teacher, a member of the Association of Teachers and Lecturers, developed headaches. The member sought immediate medical attention and through ATL's injury lawyers, Morrish Solicitors, an application was made to The Compensation Agency. It was initially rejected on the grounds that, although there was an injury, there was insufficient evidence to show it was directly attributable to a crime of violence. 

A review agreed that the injury was directly attributable to the crime of violence, but again rejected the application on the grounds that the injuries were not sufficiently serious for the lowest payable award. 

An Appeal was lodged and at a full hearing awarded the member £2,500. 

Ends. 

For further information, please contact Vanessa Charters on 0759 5564764.