Slipping and tripping accidents happen in large numbers every day and can have extremely serious consequences. In one case, a former prison officer who slipped on ice while on guard dog patrol has secured nearly £500,000 in compensation for devastating leg injuries which forced his medical retirement and blighted his life.

The officer suffered a fractured right ankle in the fall. Serious complications ensued and he is plagued by chronic pain and reduced mobility. There is a 25 per cent chance that his foot will have to be amputated. He sued his employers, the Ministry of Justice (MoJ), alleging negligence in failing to grit the area where he slipped.

The High Court commended the once highly active 47-year-old and his wife for their resilience and determination in coping with the consequences of the fall. They were entirely honest witnesses and, if anything, they had sought to minimise the toll of the accident on them.

The MoJ agreed to pay compensation on the basis of 80 per cent liability and the Court assessed the former guard's damages at £496,717. He was also granted the opportunity to return to court for further compensation if an amputation does prove necessary or his condition otherwise deteriorates.