Can I Claim for an Accident at Work If It Was My Fault?
Yes, you can still make a claim for an accident at work even if it was partly your fault. If your employer failed in their duty of care , for example, by not providing proper training, safe equipment, or warning of hazards , you may be entitled to compensation. The amount may be reduced depending on your share of responsibility, but you are not automatically disqualified from claiming.

Had an accident at work that was partly your fault, and wondering “Can I Claim for an Accident at Work That Was My Fault?”. Learn when and how to make a workplace accident claim, even if you were partly responsible. Contact Claim Today for free, no-win-no-fee advice.
Can You Claim for an Accident at Work That Was Your Fault?
Even if you made a mistake or were partly to blame, your employer has a legal duty of care to keep you safe. If their negligence contributed to the accident , for example, by failing to provide training, equipment, or safe conditions , you could still make a work accident claim.
At Claim Today led by DS Bal , we’ve helped thousands of workers across the UK successfully claim compensation even when they thought they were at fault.
Start your free claim consultation today and see what you’re entitled to.
When Can You Claim for an Accident at Work That Was Your Fault?
Workplace accidents are rarely black and white. In many cases, fault is shared between the employee and the employer. This is known as “contributory negligence.”
For example:
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- While in rush , you slipped on a wet floor that had no warning signs.
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- You accidentally misused equipment because proper training wasn’t provided.
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- You strained yourself lifting a heavy item alone, without any manual handling guidance.
In each of these cases, you may still be entitled to a percentage of compensation based on your level of responsibility.
Employer Responsibility: The Duty of Care
Your employer must:
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- Provide safe equipment and a hazard-free environment
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- Offer full and up-to-date training
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- Ensure adequate supervision and safety policies
If your employer breached any of these duties, they share responsibility for your injury.
You can read more about this in our related guide:
How to Make an Accident at Work Claim – Quick Steps to Secure Fair Compensation
How Claim Today Helps You Claim for an Accident at Work That Was Your Fault
Claim Today’s expert solicitors make the process simple, fair, and stress-free. You’ll benefit from:
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- No win, no fee representation
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- Free initial advice
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- Over 25 years of experience in workplace accident claims
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- Friendly, UK-based legal team that listens and supports you
We’ll handle everything from gathering evidence to negotiating your compensation , while keeping your job secure and your rights protected.
Also see:
How to Protect Your Job and Successfully File Your Claim.
What Compensation Can You Get?
If you’re eligible to claim for an accident at work that was your fault, your compensation could include:
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- Lost wages or overtime
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- Medical expenses and rehabilitation costs
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- Pain, suffering, and emotional distress
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- Long-term financial losses
Even a partial-fault claim can result in significant compensation to help you recover and move forward.
For official government guidance on health and safety at work, you can also visit the HSE website .
- We speak your language – 17+ languages available
- Serving clients nationwide across England & Wales
FAQs
1. Can I claim if I caused the accident?
Yes, if your employer also contributed through lack of training, unsafe equipment, or poor conditions.
2. Will I lose my job for claiming?
No. It’s illegal for your employer to dismiss or treat you unfairly for making a legitimate claim.
3. How long do I have to make a claim?
Usually, you have three years from the date of the accident or from when you realized your injury was work-related.
4. How much compensation can I get?
It depends on your injury, lost income, and percentage of shared responsibility. Our solicitors will calculate this accurately.
5. What if I’m self-employed or an agency worker?
You may still be covered by the company’s duty of care , contact us to check your eligibility.
Phone: 0800 29 800 29
Email: info@claimtoday.com
Unit 2, Avenue Road, Aston, Birmingham, B6 4DY
About Author
Written by DS Bal, solicitor admitted 1997. Founder of Legal 500 Leading Firm Claim Today
Solicitors and Legal TV (UK’s first interactive legal channel). Cabinet Office Customer Service
Excellence Award winner. Over 30 years helping injury victims across England and Wales. £8.6
million recovered in a single year. Available in 17+ languages.