Andrew joined Watmores in 1996. He brought with him many years’ experience working within the rail industry and now manages the firm’s rail portfolio.

After 4 years working in private practice Andrew joined the Litigation Division of the Legal Department of The British Railways Board in 1979 where he was responsible for dealing with employers and public liability cases primarily in the North West.

In 1990 Andrew became Assistant Claims Manage to the Board and in that role he had responsibility for a team of 40 in offices based in London and Derby which handled all rail claims throughout England, Scotland and Wales. The average number of new instructions exceeded 5000 per annum. During that time Andrew was involved in dealing with claims arising out of the rail disasters at Clapham and Cannon Street.

With the privatisation of the rail industry in 1994, Andrew was appointed Operations Director of Railway Claims Ltd which continued to handle all rail industry claims. He was involved in preparing for the complex transition between the nationalised and privatised railway and also continued in that role until 1996 when invited to join Watmores.

In his current position Andrew is instructed by a large number of Train Operating Companies both in the handling of claims and in matters proceeding to litigation. He has also received instructions from track renewal and maintenance companies. His current workload is almost exclusively rail-related although he does receive instructions in connection with pharmaceutical claims primarily those involving dispensing errors.

Andrew’s experience includes the following areas: -

Handling Personal Injury Claims

Both public and employer liability claims from slip/trip claims to major injury and fatal accidents.

Litigation Claims

From fast track low value claims to complex multi party cases and proceedings in the Court of Appeal.

Intra-Industry Disputes

Appearing regularly before the Rail Registrar and also in front of the Industry Committee in relation to cases where there are disputes between rail industry parties.

Claims Allocation

Providing advice to rail companies and their insurers on the allocation of liability and the operation of the Claims Allocation and Handling Agreement.

Claims Handling Advice and Seminars

Focusing particularly on issues relevant to train operators with a view to reducing their liability for claims.

Health and Safety Cases

Acting for rail companies prosecuted for health and safety offences and also following environmental damage caused by rail operations.

Recovery Claims

Pursuing claims for damage to rolling stock usually following line side incidents, such claims sometimes exceeding £500,000.

Andrew has received mention in the Legal Experts Directory for the last 3 years upon the recommendation of rail clients and their insurers.

Contact: amayne@watmores.co.uk