Non-fatal Accident

James Kidman

Durham Miners' Association
Compensation Department

Chopwell. James Kidman, 16, driver.

On 17th December, 1924, Kidman sustained injuries to his back through being struck by a baulk. Full compensation was paid until 19th February, 1926, when it was reduced to 7/6 per week on a report of Dr. Henderson (the Owners' doctor) who reported on 29th January, 1926, as follows :—

"He complains still of pain between the shoulders when he bends. There is some prominence in the lower dorsal spine and the muscles of the back are weak. He is much improved generally, and his condition is such that he is fit for surface work.

In my opinion the cause or causes of the workman's present disablement are injury above stated, and that the probable duration of the partial disability is six months."

Dr. Mackae Fyfe (the man's own doctor) on 10th February, 1926, reported as follows :—

"Present Condition. — He complains of pain in the middorsal region, between his shoulders on making any spinal movement. There is a marked spinal curvative in the dorso-lumbar region. He walks steadily, but says he is unable to travel any distance owing to the dorsal pain he endures.

Grounds of Opinion. — I am of the opinion that as a direct result of above accident this lad is still unfit to follow his employment."

Kidman is still off work and now claims full compensation.

Awarded full compensation.

Source: NEEMARC - Ref: NUMDA/6/1/1/6, Reports of the Compensation Department, Vol VI covering Jan-Dec 1926

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