COMPENSATION CLAIM

Dominion, Volume 14, Issue 194, 12 May 1921, Page 5

COMPENSATION CLAIM

WATERSIDER’S INJURED HAND. The Arbitration Court dealt yesterday with the claim of Alfred Peterson, a waterside worker, against tho New Zealand Shipping Company for compensation in respect of an injury to his right hand. The Court was presided over by Hie Honour Mr. Justice Frazer, tho assessor for the employers being Mr. ML Scott, and tho assessor for the employees Mr. J. A. M'Ctjllough. Mr. P. J. O’Regan appeared for the plaintiff, and Mr. 11. E. Evans for the company. The facts of the case were not disputed. Peterson, while assisting to discharge cargo from the steamer Otaki on May 13, 1920, had injured his right hand. Ilis average earnings were about J? 5 a week. Since the accident compensation at the usual rate, amounting to £2 9s. Gd. a week had been paid. The Court was asked for a decision as to lhe amount to be. allowed the plaintiff in settltmcnt of his claim against the company.

Evidence that the middle finger of Iho plaintiff's injured hand was totally useless was given by Dr. Faiilke.. Dr. Giosen, in evidence, said that after the hand had been fully cured and strength had been regained, the plaintiff would certainly ho able to resume his work. Tho hand at present certainly was stiff--it might always he stiff. If the, finger were '.amputated, the plainfill should bo allowed three months’ compensation before resuming work. Mr. O’Regan quoted several cases in support of his claim for full compensation.

Air. Evans contended that the case came under the second schedule —an ordinary claim for tho statutory 8 per cent, compensation. The plaintiff had already received .1126 from the company. The Court reserved its decision. LI will deal with further cases to-day.