During the filming of recent box office smash, Star Wars episode VII: The Force Awakens, Harrison Ford (A.K.A Han Solo) suffered a broken ankle while filming. The fracture heavily affected his mobility during filming and even forced filming to halt for a short time while producers decided how to deal with the situation. The production company now faces tough fines after admitting health & safety breaches.
Internet reaction
At the time of the injury, Ford was filming a scene involving a hydraulic door which fell shut on him; trapping and fracturing his ankle. He required a cast following a trip to the hospital. The reaction from the internet spawned a raft of puns and interesting photoshop efforts including the below:
Harrison Ford rushed to hospital following #StarWars accident pic.twitter.com/uDstBKgdOS
— General Boles (@GeneralBoles) June 13, 2014
Harrison Ford hurt on the set of Star Wars. Wheelchair ramp and railings added to the Millennium Falcon #starwars#harrisonford
— HAL 9000 (@HAL9000_) June 12, 2014
While the internet found the humour in the incident among the anticipation of the latest Star wars film following 2005’s “Revenge of the Sith”, the company in question (Foodles Production UK) were called into question over allowing the door to be placed on set despite it being a serious injury risk.
In February, legal proceedings were started in High Wycombe as Foodles were issued with four charges. Two charges were filed under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, one under Regulation 3(1) of the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999, and one under Regulation 11(1) of the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998.
Accidents at work
Despite his fame and success, Ford’s case shows even celebrities can suffer accidents at work. While Ford’s injury would not likely hamper his earning potential to a point that would change his life, a broken bone to somebody without millions in the bank could have quick serious consequences.
Scott Rees & Co has dealt with a lot of cases of broken bones from work, including ankles, legs and arms among others. Being unable to work for a period of weeks or months can affect earning potential and give a household difficulty (particularly if the sufferer is the main income provider) running as usual.
If you or anybody you know has suffered a similar injury at work, call Scott Rees & Co on 0808 278 4698 or begin a claim by filling in our claim form here. Our advisers offer free, impartial, hassle free advice with no obligation. All of our solicitors work on a no win no fee basis, ensuring that providing you are honest and co-operate with our instructions, you will not pay a single penny should your claim be unsuccessful.
At Scott Rees & Co we always strive to provide the very best outcome for all our clients (celebrity or non) so get in touch today and see what we can do for you.