Retired Nurse Who Broke Ankle in Pothole Fall Compensated

Damages have been obtained for a former nurse who suffered a broken ankle when she stepped into a pothole.

She had gone out for a walk and was crossing the road when she walked through what she thought was a puddle but was actually a deep pothole filled with rain. She believed that she had sprained her ankle and, despite being in pain, was able to walk home.

The following morning, she had difficulty putting her foot on the ground. She went to hospital and an X-ray revealed that her ankle was broken. Her leg was in a boot for six weeks. Although she made a good recovery, there is a risk that she could develop arthritis in the future.

She contacted her local council to report the incident. Eighteen months later, the council informed her that she did not have a claim. She then took legal advice. It was established that the council had previously noted the pothole when inspecting the road. Local people had also made complaints about it prior to the accident.

Shortly before court proceedings were due to commence, the council made an offer to settle her claim for £18,500, which she accepted.