Had an Accident at Work? Your Guide to Making an Injury Claim
Accidents happen. Even in the safest workplaces, things can go wrong. If you’ve suffered an injury at work in the UK, you might be entitled to compensation. This guide provides clear, straightforward advice on how to navigate the process of making an injury claim.
Understanding Your Rights After a Workplace Injury
UK law requires employers to provide a safe working environment. This means:
- Your employer must maintain safe premises. This includes ensuring the workplace itself has no hazards that could cause you injury.
- Your employer must provide safe equipment. Any tools, machinery, or equipment you use must be well-maintained and safe to operate.
- Your employer must provide adequate training. You need proper training and instruction to perform your job safely.
- Your employer must ensure your colleagues are competent. Your colleagues should not endanger your safety.
If your employer fails to meet these obligations and you get injured, you can make an injury claim.
Common Causes of Workplace Accidents
Workplace injuries occur across all industries. Some common causes include:
- Slips, trips, and falls: These often result from wet floors, uneven surfaces, or trailing cables.
- Manual handling injuries: Lifting, carrying, or moving heavy objects can cause back injuries, strains, and sprains.
- Falling objects: Objects falling from shelves, scaffolding, or other heights can cause injuries.
- Machinery accidents: Becoming entangled in machinery or being struck by moving parts can cause serious injuries.
- Exposure to hazardous substances: Contact with chemicals, fumes, or dust can lead to skin irritation, respiratory problems, and other health issues.
What to Do After a Workplace Injury
If you suffer an injury at work, take these important steps:
- Report the accident to your supervisor or manager immediately. Ensure they record the accident in the company’s accident book.
- Seek medical attention, even if your injury seems minor. This ensures you receive proper treatment and creates a medical record of your injuries, which is crucial for your claim.
- Gather evidence. Take photographs of the accident scene and any equipment involved. Get contact details for any witnesses.
- Contact a solicitor. A specialist personal injury solicitor can advise you on your rights and guide you through the claims process.
Making an Injury Claim: What to Expect
Your solicitor will guide you through the process. This typically involves:
- Gathering evidence: Your solicitor will collect all necessary evidence, including medical records, accident reports, and witness statements.
- Negotiating with insurers: Your solicitor will negotiate with your employer’s insurance company to secure the maximum compensation for your injuries, lost earnings, and other expenses.
- Court proceedings: If negotiations fail, your solicitor can initiate court proceedings.
No Win, No Fee Agreements for Injury Claims
Many solicitors offer “No Win, No Fee” agreements. This means you only pay legal fees if your claim is successful. This can give you peace of mind and access to justice, even if you lack the funds to pay for a legal case upfront.
Don’t Delay – Get the Compensation You Deserve
If you’ve suffered a workplace injury, don’t delay seeking legal advice. Time limits apply to making a claim. Contact a specialist solicitor today to discuss your options and start the process of getting the compensation you deserve.
