A life turned upside down by a drink-driver Tim Stannage’s life changed forever the day a drink-driver slammed a car into his vehicle on an otherwise normal workday. The crash left our client with horrific back injuries that saw his T1 – at the top of his vertebrae – and T2 at the bottom – shattered. Tim, who owned and operated his own outdoor blinds company, had been returning to work in Melbourne’s south-east after performing an install when his vehicle was hit out of the blue at an intersection in Frankston. The lights changed and as he moved forward, another car came out of nowhere and crashed into his vehicle. It happened so quickly that Tim had no time to brake. He spent the next three days in the Alfred Hospital not knowing what the outcome of his injuries would be. Seeking compensation for life-changing injuries Tim’s health and capacity to earn a living have been severely impacted by the crash. He is now pursuing compensation – through both TAC and WorkCover claims – for pain and suffering, medical and like expenses, and loss of earnings. ‘I run my own business and there is a significant effect not only on myself but the business as well,’ he said. Arnold Thomas & Becker Senior Legal Executive Stuart Coutts, who is representing Mr Stannage in his WorkCover and Transport Accident Commission claims, said legal action will never fully compensate what his client has lost. ‘Tim’s injuries are significant and at this point we know they will be life-changing into the future too. This is due to the actions of someone who decided to get behind the wheel in a severely inebriated state,’ he said. ‘Tim is fortunate to be alive but now must live with the consequences of this person’s actions forever. ‘Along with the physical injuries, Tim suffers mental trauma from the accident, which will likely affect him for years to come … pursuing legal action and compensation can’t undo the pain and suffering that Tim now faces. However, we hope Tim can find closure in seeking justice, while sending a strong message that drink driving is not okay and should not be tolerated.’ Why you need a lawyer While the TAC scheme has extensive benefits to assist you with any physical and mental injuries after an accident, it is important for you to have a lawyer on your side to help manage your claim and ensure you are getting the full benefit of your entitlements. You can read more about how we can help you on our blog. In Tim’s case, because he was injured while on work duties, he is also covered by the WorkCover scheme. Compensation is payable to full time, part time and casual workers. Self employed contractors in many cases such as owner-drivers and incorporated small business owners are also entitled to compensation. Visit our Workers Compensation page for more information. Contact us For more information about TAC claims and eligibility, visit our TAC page. At Arnold Thomas & Becker, we operate on a No Win No Fee basis. To talk to one of our lawyers, call us on 03 9034 8433.