Aldo, who is a wheelchair user and left-leg amputee from the Doncaster area, was using the facilities in a Greggs on Wheatley Hall Road, Doncaster, when the toilet’s support rail unexpectedly detached from the wall, causing him to fall. As a wheelchair user and amputee, he relies on handrails for stability.

The fall resulted in injury to his lower back, which has had a lasting impact on both his mobility and confidence. Since the incident, he has found mobilising without his wheelchair more challenging and painful, and continues to experience chronic pain. He has also become more reliant on assistance for day-to-day tasks that he previously managed independently.

The physical effects of the injury have been compounded by emotional and psychological strain. He has described feeling anxious about using public accessible toilets and concerned about the potential for similar incidents in other spaces designed for disabled users.

Following the incident, he instructed specialist serious injury lawyers at Switalskis to investigate the circumstances and determine whether his injuries could have been avoided. He also wanted to hold those responsible to account.

Switalskis’ serious injury team, acting on behalf of Aldo, alleged that the handrail had not been properly installed and failed under ordinary use. They argued that both Greggs and the contractor responsible for fitting the bathroom had breached their duty of care under the Occupiers’ Liability Act 1957 and at common law.

While both companies denied liability, court proceedings were issued. After a four-and-a-half-year legal battle, Aldo’s claim was settled out of court following engineering evidence confirming that the handrail had been insufficiently installed. While relieved that the matter has now concluded, Aldo says he chose to speak out after being made to feel disbelieved and marginalised throughout the process.

He said: “I trust these handrails with my life every single day. They are supposed to be there to keep me safe, but this one failed me completely. If we can't rely on basic accessibility features to be secure, how can disabled people have any confidence in public spaces?

“What upset me the most was being made to feel like what had happened wasn’t a big deal. That’s why I’ve chosen to speak out - to shine a light on the real impact this has had on my life and hopefully stop it from happening to anyone else.”

Rosie Dodds , serious injury solicitor , said: “This case is not just about one individual’s injury; it's about ensuring that disabled people can move through public spaces without fear. Safety features like handrails and support bars are not optional extras - they are essential.
“Throughout the legal process, it became apparent that the companies involved showed a complete lack of understanding and empathy around disability, and the everyday reliance many people have on basic access features. That’s something that must change.

“I’m pleased we’ve been able to support our client and secure a settlement that reflects the impact this incident has had on his life. But no one should have to go through what he has just to be heard, let alone to obtain accountability.”

Find out how Switalskis can help you

If you have experienced a serious injury in an accident that wasn’t your fault, compensation can provide vital financial support during your recovery.

Working with a specialist personal injury lawyer can help you access the support, rehabilitation, and compensation you need to rebuild your life.

To start the process of making a claim, call the serious injury team at Switalskis today on 0808 258 8041 or get in touch via the form on our website.