Accident at work claims

Accident at work compensation

Even though this is the case, these types of claims are more common than anticipated, with employees often being unaware of the potential dangers of their work environment until an accident at work actually happens. It is also important to remember that work injuries can occur across a range of workplaces, from factories and construction sites to office-based positions. Blackwater Law are specialists when it comes to dealing with accident-at-work claims, so you can be sure that your work injury compensation claim is in safe hands.

I had an accident at work – what are my rights?

If you’ve experienced an accident at work, knowing your rights is important. Accidents can happen in any workplace, regardless of industry or size. Whether you’re a factory worker, office employee, or healthcare professional, you have legal rights in place to protect you.

Who is responsible?

Determining who is responsible for an accident at work can sometimes be complex. Generally, your employer has a legal duty to provide a safe and healthy working environment. This includes:

• Conducting risk assessments: Identifying potential hazards in the workplace and taking steps to eliminate or control them. This might involve conducting regular safety inspections, providing personal protective equipment (PPE), and implementing safety procedures.
• Maintaining safe equipment: Ensuring that all equipment is safe and in good working order. This means regular maintenance, inspections, and repairs.
• Providing proper training: Providing adequate training to employees on how to use equipment safely and comply with health and safety regulations. This should be tailored to the specific tasks involved.
• Implementing safe systems of work: Implementing safe procedures and practices to prevent accidents. This could include safe working methods, emergency procedures, and clear signage.

If your employer has failed to fulfil these duties and your accident resulted from their negligence, they may be liable for the injuries or losses you suffer.

What are their obligations to you?

Your employer has several obligations to you if you’ve been injured in a workplace accident:

• First aid: Providing immediate first aid treatment. This is essential to stabilise your condition and prevent further injuries.
• Reporting: Reporting the accident to the relevant authorities, such as the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). This is important for ensuring that your accident is investigated and any necessary corrective actions are taken.
• Investigation: Conducting a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the accident and identify any contributing factors, to ensure the same thing cannot happen to you or any other workers again.
• Compensation: Providing compensation for your injuries and losses, which may include medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. The amount of compensation you’re entitled to will depend on the severity of your injuries and the impact they have on your life.

In some cases, you may also be entitled to compensation from a third party, such as a manufacturer of defective equipment.

Common types of workplace accidents

• Slips, trips, and falls: These are the most common types of workplace accidents. They can occur due to wet or slippery floors, uneven surfaces, or obstructions in the workplace.
• Machinery accidents: Accidents involving machinery can result in serious injuries, such as amputations or crush injuries.
• Chemical exposure: Exposure to hazardous chemicals can cause a range of health problems, including skin irritation, respiratory issues, and long-term health conditions.
• Lifting injuries: Improper lifting techniques can lead to back injuries, strains, and sprains.
• Vehicle accidents: If you’re involved in a vehicle accident while on the job, your employer may be liable for your injuries.

Choose Blackwater Law

At Blackwater Law, our approach is professional and personal, so you can be sure to get the best service when you choose us as your work accident solicitors. We offer exceptional client service, which means you will have direct access to you team when you need it. We can either meet you in person, talk through your case over the phone or by email; whichever option suits you best.

We will always keep you up to date with the progress of your work accident claim and explain the options available to you simply and clearly; which can let you make informed decisions.