A neurosurgery specialist, Dr. Steven Tominey, seeks over £200,000 in compensation from Barts Health NHS Trust following a terrifying lift plunge at the Royal London Hospital in Whitechapel, east London. The incident in March 2024 left him with life-altering leg injuries, a limp, ongoing pain, and symptoms requiring PTSD therapy.
The Harrowing Lift Incident
Dr. Tominey entered the lift between 7 a.m. and 7:30 a.m. during a night shift on March 15, 2024. The lift suddenly dropped four floors before emergency brakes activated, leaving him terrified and convinced he would die.
His left leg absorbed the impact of the abrupt stop. Unable to walk due to severe pain, he lowered himself to the floor and crawled to the emergency buzzer. Rescuers freed him after 5 to 10 agonizing minutes, rushing him to the hospital’s Accident and Emergency Department.
Severe Injuries and Long-Term Effects
X-rays revealed fractures in two places on his leg. Initial surgery failed to align his knee properly, necessitating a second operation to shorten one leg. He now walks with a limp, experiences persistent pain, and struggles to stand for extended periods at work.
The trauma also triggered depression, prompting eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy for PTSD.
Legal Battle at High Court
At London’s High Court, lawyers for Dr. Tominey argue the trust breached its non-delegable duty to provide a safe workplace. They contend the accident will hinder his career progression.
The trust admits the breach of duty but disputes the accident details, causation of effects, and compensation amount. It seeks to delay proceedings until his long-term recovery clarifies.
