£25k payout for gran injured in bus fall

A great grandmother from West Bromwich who was left housebound for six months after she fell on a Black Country bus has been awarded a £25,000 payout.

Doreen Tyler, aged 82, said she suffered head injuries when she was thrown into a supporting pole then onto the floor as she tried to get off a Diamond Bus on March 10, 2009.

She had stood up to get off the bus in Carisbrooke Road, Wednesbury, when it pulled away.

She said the driver braked suddenly when he realised she was still on board and she fell to the ground.

The grandmother-of-four said she suffered cuts to her head and the trauma also caused drop foot, a brain injury which makes walking awkward and painful.

She said she did not feel well enough to leave her home for six months as she recovered from her injuries.

This week Mrs Tyler, who still has difficulty moving, was paid the sum by Diamond, of Hallbridge Way, Warley, in an out of court settlement after she took legal advice.

Mrs Tyler, who retired aged 70 but still volunteers at the British Heart Foundation charity shop in West Bromwich, said: "The accident really knocked me for six. I now have trouble getting around my own home and had to make adaptations such as a special chair and aids to help me get in and out of the bath.

"I was really sprightly for my age before the accident and didn't need any of these mobility aids."

Walsall-based Bradin Trubshaw Solicitors represented Mrs Tyler. Sam Myatt, who handled the case, said: "I'm pleased we have helped her to achieve the damages she deserves."

Mrs Tyler added: "It really isn't about the money. I'd much rather still have full use of my leg again."

Diamond Bus Company refused to comment.