No one expects to be injured at work, but workplace accidents happen every day across a wide range of industries. Whether you’ve slipped on a wet floor, been injured by faulty equipment or developed an injury because your employer failed to provide a safe working environment, it’s important to understand your legal rights.
If you’ve been injured in an accident at work that wasn’t your fault, you may be entitled to compensation. Knowing what steps to take and seeking legal advice early can help you protect your interests and access the support you need.
Does my employer have a duty to keep me safe?
Yes.
Employers have a legal duty to take reasonable steps to protect the health, safety and welfare of their employees while they are at work. This duty is set out in health and safety legislation and includes providing a safe working environment, suitable equipment and appropriate training.
Employers should also carry out risk assessments, maintain machinery, provide personal protective equipment where necessary and ensure that employees are properly supervised.
While not every accident can be prevented, employers are expected to take reasonable precautions to reduce the risk of injury.
What should I do if I’m injured at work?
If you’re involved in an accident at work, there are several steps you should take as soon as possible.
These include:
- seeking medical attention if required;
- reporting the accident to your employer;
- ensuring the incident is recorded in the accident book;
- taking photographs of the accident scene and any injuries where possible;
- obtaining the contact details of any witnesses; and
- keeping records of any financial losses or expenses resulting from the accident.
Taking these steps can be important if you later decide to pursue a compensation claim.
Can I make a compensation claim?
If your injury was caused, or contributed to, by your employer’s negligence or a failure to comply with health and safety obligations, you may be able to make a personal injury claim.
Every case is different, but common workplace accidents include:
- slips, trips and falls;
- manual handling injuries;
- falls from height;
- accidents involving machinery or equipment;
- injuries caused by falling objects; and
- exposure to hazardous substances;
A solicitor can assess the circumstances of your accident and advise whether you may have a valid claim.
Will I lose my job if I make a claim?
Many people worry that making a compensation claim against their employer could affect their job.
In reality, employers are required to have Employers’ Liability Insurance, and compensation claims are usually dealt with by the insurer rather than being paid directly by the business.
Employees are also protected by employment law, and an employer should not treat someone unfairly simply because they have exercised their legal rights.
What can compensation cover?
Compensation is intended to put you, as far as possible, back in the position you would have been in had the accident not happened.
Depending on your circumstances, a claim may include compensation for:
- pain, suffering and the impact of your injury;
- lost earnings;
- future loss of income;
- medical treatment and rehabilitation costs;
- travel expenses; and
- care and assistance provided by family or professionals.
The amount awarded will depend on the nature of the injury and its impact on your life.
Is there a time limit for making a claim?
In most cases, personal injury claims must be started within three years of the date of the accident or the date you became aware that your injury was linked to your work.
There are some exceptions, so it’s important to seek legal advice as soon as possible rather than waiting until the time limit is approaching.
Why legal advice matters
Every workplace accident is different, and understanding whether you have a claim can sometimes be complex.
An experienced personal injury solicitor can explain your rights, gather the necessary evidence and deal with insurers on your behalf, allowing you to focus on your recovery.
Obtaining advice early can also help ensure that important evidence is preserved and that your claim is progressed efficiently.
How Oliver & Co Solicitors can help
If you’ve been injured in an accident at work, you don’t have to navigate the aftermath alone. Our experienced Personal Injury team can provide clear, practical advice, explain your legal rights and help you pursue the compensation you may be entitled to. Contact us today on 01244 312306 for a confidential discussion about your circumstances and find out how we can help.
