Accident At Work Claims

If you've been injured at work, you may be entitled to compensation. Our accident at work claims solicitors are here to assist you every step of the way.

To find out whether you have a valid claim for workplace accident compensation talk to LEXMM SOLICITORS at 0158 235 9990 or fill out our online form.

What is an Accident at Work Claim?

An accident at work claim is a legal process through which you seek compensation for an injury you sustained while on the job. Your employer has a legal duty to ensure your safety at work, and if they fail to do so, leading to an accident, you may have the right to make a claim for the injuries and losses you've suffered.

Common types of accidents that can lead to claims include:

• Slips, trips, and falls
• Injuries caused by faulty or poorly maintained equipment
• Falls from height
• Repetitive strain injuries
• Accidents caused by insufficient training or supervision
• Exposure to hazardous substances or dangerous working conditions

If you've suffered any type of injury due to unsafe work practices or negligence, you may have grounds for a claim.

What Are Your Rights After an Accident at Work?

In the UK, the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 places a duty of care on employers to provide a safe and healthy working environment for their employees. This includes:

• Providing proper training
• Maintaining equipment
• Implementing risk assessments
• Providing necessary safety equipment, such as PPE (personal protective equipment)
• Taking steps to prevent accidents and injuries

If your employer fails to uphold these responsibilities, and as a result, you suffer an injury at work, you are entitled to claim compensation.

It's important to note that making a claim will not affect your employment rights. You are legally protected from being treated unfairly or facing retaliation for seeking compensation.

Steps to Take After a Workplace Accident

If you've had an accident at work, it's important to take certain steps to protect your health, your rights, and your ability to make a successful claim. Here's what you should do:

Seek Medical Help Immediately

The first priority after any accident is your health. Whether your injury is serious or minor, you should seek medical attention right away. Even if you don't feel the full extent of the injury immediately, it's important to get checked by a doctor. Not only will this help with your recovery, but it will also serve as essential evidence if you decide to make a claim.

Report the Accident to Your Employer

By law, your employer is required to record any workplace injuries in an accident book. This log is important because it provides an official record of what happened. If your workplace does not have an accident book, report the accident to your manager in writing and ensure it's documented.

Gather Evidence

The more evidence you can gather, the stronger your claim will be. Take photographs of the scene of the accident, any damaged equipment, and your injuries. Collect the contact details of any witnesses who saw the accident occur, as their statements could be valuable in proving your case.

Contact a Solicitor

After reporting the accident, it's time to speak with a personal injury solicitor who specialises in workplace accidents. They can assess your case, offer guidance, and help you understand whether you have a valid claim. Our solicitor will work on a No Win No Fee basis, so you won't have to pay upfront costs to pursue your claim.

How Long Do You Have to Make a Claim?

In most cases, you have three years from the date of the accident to start legal action. This time limit can vary in certain circumstances, such as if the injury was not immediately apparent or if you were a minor at the time of the accident. It's important to start your claim as soon as possible to avoid missing this crucial deadline.

What Can You Claim for After a Work Accident?

The compensation you can receive depends on the severity of your injury and its impact on your life. Generally, claims cover:

• General damages – Compensation for pain, suffering, and loss of enjoyment of life due to your injury.
• Special damages – Reimbursement for expenses like medical bills, lost wages, travel expenses, and rehabilitation costs.

If your injury is severe or long-term, you may also be entitled to compensation for future financial losses, such as ongoing care needs or a decrease in your ability to work.

Will Your Employer's Insurance Pay for Your Claim?

Many employees worry that making a claim might mean taking money directly from their employer. However, that's not the case. Employers are legally required to have employer's liability insurance, which covers the costs of workplace injury claims. So when you make a claim, you'll be claiming compensation from the insurance company, not from your employer's personal funds.

Common Workplace Injuries That Can Lead to Claims

• Slips, Trips, and Falls: Wet floors, cluttered walkways, or uneven surfaces can cause serious accidents.
• Manual Handling Injuries: Lifting heavy objects improperly can lead to back injuries, strains, and sprains.
• Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSI): Work that involves repetitive tasks, such as typing or heavy lifting, can cause long-term muscle or nerve damage.
• Machinery and Equipment Injuries: Faulty or poorly maintained machinery can cause serious accidents.
• Falls from Height: Construction workers or those working on ladders or scaffolding face the risk of falling from height.
• Hazardous Substance Exposure: Workers in certain industries may be exposed to harmful chemicals or asbestos, leading to serious health conditions.