Accidents at Work 

Unsure About Making a Claim? - Know the Facts

Over 600,000 people have been injured at work in the last two years according to the Health and Safety Executive with tripping, falling from height, and injuries sustained by lifting or working with faulty machinery being the most common.

Your employer owes you a duty of care whilst you are at work and you may be entitled to compensation as a result of an accident however many employees are reluctant to make a claim for fear of losing their job, out of loyalty to their employer, concerns over the legal expenses or because they think they’ve left it too late.

FACT - An employer cannot dismiss you for making a claim nor can they treat you differently to other employees. If they do, they are opening themselves up to an additional employment tribunal claim for victimisation.

FACT - Your employer will almost certainly be insured against the claim which is therefore unlikely to have immediate financial consequences for them.

FACT - The majority of claims settle meaning your legal expenses will be taken care of and insurance policies are available to keep you covered in the worst case scenario should your claim not succeed.

FACT - You have up to three years from the date of the accident to initiate your claim in court.

What to do if an accident at work happens:

• Report it to your employer immediately
  
• Seek medical attention
  
• Gather evidence including photographs and the names of any witnesses
  
• Retain receipts for any expenses incurred
  
• Speak to your solicitor