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Accidents at work claims can be quite a minefield if you’re unsure how the process works. From gathering vital evidence to dealing with the arguments posed by defendants, there can be a lot to handle and a lot of legal jargon to wrap your head around. That’s why we created this accidents at work FAQ page, devoted to answering the most frequently asked questions on workplace accident claims.
Below, you can find answers to topics ranging from the accident at work claim time limit to the average payout for a workplace back injury.
Remember, if you have any other questions that aren’t covered on this page, or if you’d like to proceed to make a claim, please get in touch with us by:
- Calling 0161 509 2856
- Writing to us via our contact page
- Or chat with us now using the live chat box in the bottom corner
FAQ On Accident At Work Claims
Below you can find answers to some of the most popular questions we get asked:
Why is it important to report accidents at work?
In reporting accidents at work, it’s possible to use these records to help develop and improve risk assessments and identify potential risks to prevent incidents from happening in the future.
Reporting accidents also creates a record of the incident, which may serve as a crucial piece of evidence in proving a compensation claim.
Reporting accidents can also keep your colleagues safe. For example, if you worked for Amazon and hurt yourself on a piece of equipment, highlighting this to your supervisors could see action taken to stop others from getting hurt.
How can you avoid accidents at the workplace?
There are various steps employers can take to avoid accidents at the workplace, such as:
- Conducting risk assessments
- Carrying out regular inspections and maintenance work on machinery and equipment, as well as communal areas and the lighting on the likes of stairwells.
- Training staff continuously
- Supplying adequate PPE
- Keeping work areas and walkways clear
- Displaying warning signage
- Reporting accidents and near misses
Following all of these steps allows employers and employees to avoid workplace accidents.
What is the most common accident in the workplace?
According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), the most common accident in the workplace in the UK are slips, trips and falls.
Such accidents can be caused by cluttered or obstructed walkways, poor lighting, faulty handrails or spillages that haven’t been cleaned up.
The biggest issue with this type of accident is that in most cases, it can be avoided.
Can you claim for accidents at work?
Yes, it’s possible to claim for accidents at work provided you can prove three things:
- That your employer owed you a duty of care (all employers owe their staff a duty to keep them safe at work, so far as reasonably possible)
- That your employer breached that duty of care
- And that breach led to you suffering an injury
Prove all of these things and you’ll be able to establish that your employer was negligent.
How long do I have to make an accident at work claim?
You have 3 years from the date of the accident to make a claim for compensation. So, for example, if you had an accident on 4th August 2022, you would have until 4th August 2025 to issue court proceedings.
If you lose mental capacity because of the accident, the time limit will be frozen until you regain it. A litigation friend can pursue a claim on your behalf, however.
Can I claim for psychological injuries after an accident at work?
Yes, it’s possible to claim for the psychological impact caused by the injuries sustained in an accident at work. For example, you may have suffered post-traumatic stress disorder, which can stop you from working, or your working environment, practices or colleagues caused you to develop work related stress.
If you need any more questions answering that aren’t covered in our accidents at work FAQ, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
Learn More
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