A Unite the Union member has been awarded compensation after a cycling accident involving a faulty bike from Halfords.

David Green from Wrexham was a keen cyclist and in the summer of 2012 decided to purchase what he thought was a good quality, expensive bicycle from Halfords for travelling to and from work.

Concussion, cuts and bruises

Mr Green had owned the bicycle for a matter of weeks when the front fork snapped as he was cycling along a highway. He was sent crashing to the ground and was knocked unconscious.

A passer-by stopped to help the 53-year-old who had suffered concussion and multiple cuts and bruises. Mr Green went on to make a full recovery but has been completely put off pursuing his passion and has not ridden a bicycle since the accident.

Unite Legal Services and Thompsons investigated claim for compensation

He took the bicycle back to Halfords and was told that there had been a fault with that particular brand of bike. As a member of Unite the Union for most of his working life, David contacted Unite Legal Services who instructed Thompsons Solicitors to investigate a claim for compensation.

Mr Green said: “Considering that I was knocked unconscious in the middle of a busy road, I am very lucky that the accident wasn’t a lot worse than it was. However I don’t ever think I will ever cycle again as a result.

“I really appreciate the help that Unite gave me to pursue a claim against Halfords because, big brand or not, they owe their customers the peace of mind that they’re buying quality products.”

Product not fit for purpose

Tony Brady, Unite the Union Regional Officer, said: “Halfords admitted liability for selling a product that was not fit for purpose. We are pleased that, with the help of Thompsons Solicitors, Unite was able to secure damages for our member, although it is sad that this experience has put him off cycling for life.”