A truck driver who injured their back in a crash at a mine site has received $1.4 million in compensation.

The crash occurred in 2009, when the 28-year-old driver was working at a coal mine near Emerald in Queensland.

The driver suffered neck and back injuries when a digger struck a truck while it was being unloaded.

The Supreme Court of Queensland has ordered Golding Contractors to pay Jodie Maree Martin the sum of $1.4 million, after finding her evidence to be “honest and free of exaggeration”.

The driver allegedly still suffers from neck and lower back pain, and is unable to work in the transport industry.

She said she has missed out on a long-term career in the mines after obtaining several forms of machinery and equipment training, and that her partner and family also work at the mines. 

The court found Ms Martin had been deprived of earning capacity, and had been caused significant pain and injury.

“The plaintiff gave evidence that she enjoyed a challenge and I formed the view that she was not only ambitious but in particular she was also enthusiastic to meet the challenges facing a young woman operating heavy machinery in the mining industry,” the Supreme Court Judge said.