Anyone who watches Britain\u2019s most popular Soap opera will be aware that the street has experienced yet another catastrophe, when the roof collapsed at the Underworld factory.<\/p>\n
As the storyline has unfolded, it has become apparent that Underworld owner Carla Connor had known for weeks that the structure of the factory was in dire need of repair, therefore making her liable for claims by both those who suffered injury and Rana\u2019s estate. As viewers will know, Carla received many warnings that the roof needed repair work, but chose to do a quick patch up job instead.<\/p>\n
All of those who were trapped and injured when the roof collapsed are entitled to bring personal injury claims for the injuries and other losses they suffered. It doesn\u2019t look as though many will be fit for work in the near future, or that the factory will be up and running anytime soon, so they will also have claims for lost earnings.<\/p>\n
As an employer, Underworld owes a duty of care to its employees to ensure that they are provided with a safe place of work; clearly it failed to do so here. Most employers have Employers\u2019 Liability Insurance which will pay for the compensation and most of the legal fees to those who have been injured. Hopefully Carla has paid for such a policy, otherwise she would have to pay for the claims personally.<\/p>\n
As Rana had not married Kate by the time she died, the claim in respect of her death will fall to be dealt with by her estate. If she didn\u2019t leave a will appointing executors, then under the Intestacy Rules, her parents will be able to bring the claim on behalf of the estate. Whether Kate can bring a claim is an interesting legal point. Legally, as they were not married, she is unlikely to be able to claim.<\/p>\n
Carla may also face prosecution by the Health and Safety Executive for corporate manslaughter and\/or other offences.<\/p>\n
We wait to see what will happen in the coming weeks, but in the meantime, we wonder why none of the victims have been to see specialist personal injury solicitors already? Surely the likes of Beth, Sean and Gina would have done so already in reality?<\/p>\n