Picture for illustrative purposes only. ARCHIVE

A worker who was left permanently disabled after a workplace accident in Abu Dhabi has been awarded an increased Dh1.5 million in compensation following a court ruling. The Abu Dhabi Family, Civil, and Administrative Cases Court increased the amount from an earlier ruling of Dh1.1 million, citing the company’s negligence in failing to provide the legally required safety measures. The worker had fallen from scaffolding seven metres high while on duty, suffering life-altering injuries. A forensic medical report revealed that he was now confined to a wheelchair, unable to stand or walk independently, and had permanently lost sensation and movement in both legs. He also sustained severe injuries to his lower back and left hip, significant muscle atrophy, stiffness in his joints, and a spinal deformity due to a fracture. Doctors confirmed he suffers from complete paraplegia and permanent loss of bladder control, amounting to 100 percent disability in his lower body. A neurology specialist added that he required long-term intensive physical therapy and rehabilitation. The worker, who does not have medical insurance, had demanded Dh7 million in damages, including Dh800,000 for surgeries, rehabilitation, and psychological trauma. He also cited a criminal court conviction against the company for negligence. After reviewing medical evidence and circumstances, the court ordered the company to pay Dh1.5 million to cover both material and moral damages. ICA/Expat Media
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