If you have suffered an accident at work, Fentons could be able to help you claim. Understanding your accident at work rights is vital in ensuring you receive the support and compensation you may be entitled to. This guide will explain your rights, what steps to take after an accident, and how to claim.

Key Facts

• Employers have a legal duty to provide a safe working environment under health and safety laws.
• You must report an accident at work to ensure a proper record is kept.
• Statutory Sick Pay may be available if you need time off work due to injury.
• You may be able to make a compensation claim under a No Win No Fee agreement.
• Fentons offers expert guidance on how to claim for an accident at work.

Understanding Your Rights After A Workplace Accident

 

If you have been injured at work, you have legal rights that protect you. Employers must follow health and safety laws, which require them to minimise risks and provide a safe working environment. These regulations ensure that workers can carry out their duties without undue risk of injury.

Your injury at work rights include the ability to claim compensation, time off work to recover, and access to statutory sick pay. If your employer fails in their employer’s duty to keep you safe, you may be able to make a No Win No Fee claim.

Common Workplace Injuries

Workplace injuries can happen in any industry, from office environments to construction sites. Many accidents are preventable when proper health and safety measures are followed. Below are some of the most common workplace injuries and their causes.

• Slips, Trips, and Falls – Wet floors, poor lighting, or cluttered walkways can cause fractures, head injuries, or sprains.
• Manual Handling Injuries – Lifting or carrying heavy objects improperly may lead to back injuries, hernias, and muscle strains.
• Falls from Height – Falling from ladders or scaffolding can result in fractures, head trauma, or internal injuries, common in construction and warehouse work.
• Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSI) – Typing, tool use, or repetitive tasks can cause pain, numbness, and mobility issues. Proper ergonomics and breaks help prevent RSI.
• Exposure to Harmful Substances – Hazardous chemicals, dust, or fumes may lead to respiratory issues, skin conditions, or long-term illnesses like lung disease. PPE and safety protocols reduce risks.
• Machinery and Equipment Accidents – Heavy machinery can cause crush injuries, amputations, or severe cuts. Proper training and safety guards are essential.
• Workplace Violence and Assault – Healthcare, retail, and law enforcement workers are at risk of physical or psychological harm from aggressive behaviour. Prevention policies and training are crucial.
• Burns and Electrical Injuries – Hot surfaces, chemicals, and faulty wiring can cause burns or electric shocks. Protective equipment and safety measures help prevent accidents.

What Should I Do If I’m Injured Because Of An Accident At Work?

After an accident at work, taking the right steps is crucial to protect your rights and support any potential compensation claim. Your employer has an employer’s duty to ensure a safe working environment, but you must also take responsibility for your actions following an injury.

Steps to take:

1. Seek medical help – Even minor injuries should be assessed by a professional.
2. Report the incident – Inform your employer and ensure the accident is recorded.
3. Gather evidence – Take photos, get witness details, and keep records of medical visits.
4. Check your workplace policies – Some companies have specific procedures for reporting accidents.
5. Contact a claims specialist – Fentons could be able to help you claim for your injuries.

How Do I Report An Accident At Work?

Reporting an accident properly is essential for both health and safety compliance and for making a claim. Employers are required to keep a formal record of all workplace injuries, and failing to report an incident could affect your ability to claim compensation.

Steps to report an accident:

1. Notify your manager – Do this as soon as possible after the accident.
2. Ensure the accident is logged – This should be done in the accident book.
3. Request a copy of the report – Keep this for your own records.
4. Report to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) – If the injury is serious, the employer must do this.
5. Seek legal advice – If unsure, Fentons can provide guidance on how to claim for an accident at work.

Is My Employer Required To Record Workplace Accidents?

Yes. Employers must keep an accident book where workplace injuries are recorded. This ensures compliance with health and safety laws and protects employees’ rights. A record can provide evidence if you later make a claim.

Key points:

• All businesses with 10 or more employees must keep an accident book.
• Certain serious injuries must be reported to the HSE under RIDDOR.
• Employers must investigate accidents and update risk assessments accordingly.
• If an employer refuses to record an accident, seek legal advice immediately.

What Are My Rights Regarding Health And Safety At Work?

Under UK law, employers have a duty of care to ensure a safe workplace. This includes conducting regular risk assessments, providing personal protective equipment, and offering training to prevent accidents.

Your rights include:

• Working in a safe environment with minimal risks.
• Using personal protective equipment where necessary.
• Having access to training to prevent injuries.
• Reporting unsafe conditions without fear of retaliation.

If your employer neglects these duties, they could be liable for any workplace injury you suffer. Additionally, if your employer fires you after making a claim, you may have additional grounds to take legal action.

Am I Entitled To Sick Pay If I’m Injured At Work?

If you need time off work after an injury, you may be entitled to Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) or additional company sick pay, depending on your contract. You should check your employment terms to see if your employer offers enhanced sick pay. If SSP applies, you may receive payments for up to 28 weeks.

Additionally, if your injury resulted from your employer’s negligence, you might also be able to pursue a compensation claim. Keeping accurate records of your time off and medical appointments can help support any future claim you make.

To qualify for SSP:

• You must have been off work for at least four consecutive days.
• Your average earnings must be at least £123 per week.
• You must report your absence within your employer’s deadline.

Can I Claim For A Workplace Injury?

If you have been injured in a workplace accident, you may be entitled to make a compensation claim. UK law protects employees by ensuring they have the right to claim if their injury was caused by their employer’s negligence. This could include a failure to conduct proper risk assessments, provide adequate personal protective equipment, or maintain a safe working environment.

To make a successful claim, you must prove that:

• Your employer had a duty of care towards you.
• They breached their health and safety obligations.
• This breach directly led to your workplace injury.

Fentons could be able to help you claim, offering expert legal guidance on how to claim for an accident at work under a No Win No Fee agreement.

Eligibility Criteria For Making A Compensation Claim

To make a claim, you must prove that your employer failed to meet their health and safety obligations, that this failure directly caused your workplace injury, and that you suffered damages as a result. Evidence such as medical reports, witness statements, and workplace risk assessments can strengthen your case. Documenting everything thoroughly is crucial in ensuring your compensation claim is successful. If you’re unsure whether you qualify, Fentons could be able to help you claim under a No Win No Fee agreement.

1. Your employer failed to uphold health and safety duties.
2. The accident was caused by this failure.
3. You suffered an injury as a result.

Fentons could be able to help you claim if these conditions apply to your case.

Seeking Medical Attention And Documenting Injuries

Medical evidence strengthens your compensation claim. Always seek medical attention after an accident and keep records of all treatments, symptoms, and expenses. Proper documentation can support your case and help ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

• Doctor’s reports.
• Prescriptions.
• Treatment costs.

Time Limits For Submitting A Workplace Accident Claim

In the UK, you generally have three years from the date of the accident to claim. There are exceptions for industrial diseases and under-18s. If the injury develops over time due to workplace conditions, the three-year limit may begin from the date of diagnosis.

If you were incapacitated and unable to claim immediately, extensions might apply. Acting quickly is crucial, as delays can affect evidence collection. Seeking legal advice early can help determine if you still qualify. Fentons could be able to help you claim within the legal timeframe and guide you through the process.

Potential Damages For An Accident At Work

If you have suffered an injury due to an accident while at work, you may be entitled to claim for several types of damages. These are intended to cover both financial losses and the impact on your quality of life. Compensation is designed to help you recover from the accident and address any ongoing issues that arise from it.

You may be able to claim for:

• Loss of earnings – If your injury prevents you from working, you could recover lost wages, including future earnings if you cannot return to work.
• Medical treatment costs – This includes expenses for doctor visits, prescriptions, physiotherapy, rehabilitation, and any required long-term care.
• Pain and suffering – Compensation may be available for physical pain, emotional distress, and the overall impact the injury has had on your daily life.
• Travel expenses – You can claim for the cost of travelling to and from medical appointments related to your injury.
• Adaptations to home or vehicle – If your injury results in long-term disability, you may need to modify your living space or vehicle to accommodate your needs.
• Care and assistance costs – If you require additional help at home due to your injury, you may be able to claim for professional care or assistance from family members.

Ensuring you keep thorough records of all expenses and impacts related to your workplace injury will strengthen your compensation claim. Fentons could be able to help you claim for the damages you are entitled to, ensuring you receive the support needed for your recovery.

Making a No Win No Fee Work Accident Claim

A No Win No Fee work accident claim allows you to pursue compensation without any financial risk. This type of agreement, also known as a Conditional Fee Agreement (CFA), ensures that you do not have to pay legal fees unless your claim is successful.

Key Benefits of a No Win No Fee Claim:

• No upfront legal costs – You do not need to pay any fees at the start of your claim.
• Risk-free process – If your claim is unsuccessful, you will not be responsible for paying solicitor fees.
• Access to expert legal representation – No Win No Fee agreements make it easier for individuals to seek justice without financial barriers.

How Does a No Win No Fee Claim Work?

1. Initial assessment – A solicitor will review your case to determine its chances of success.
2. Signing the agreement – If your case is accepted, you will sign a No Win No Fee agreement.
3. Pursuing the claim – Your solicitor gathers evidence and negotiates with the employer’s insurer.
4. Winning the claim – If successful, your solicitor will deduct a success fee (a percentage of your compensation, agreed upon beforehand).
5. Unsuccessful claims – If the claim is not successful, you do not have to pay legal fees.

Is a No Win No Fee Claim Right for You?

If you have suffered a workplace injury due to employer negligence, a No Win No Fee claim can provide a risk-free way to seek compensation. This arrangement ensures that legal support is accessible to everyone, regardless of financial circumstances.

Fentons could be able to help you claim under a No Win No Fee agreement. Contact us today for expert legal advice.

Fentons Can Help You Make A Claim For An Accident At Work

Fentons has over 30 years of experience helping injured workers. Our expert team provides free legal advice and helps claimants secure the compensation they deserve. Call 0333 000 0723 or contact us today to find out if you can claim.

Workplace Accident Rights FAQ

Can I Claim For Anxiety After A Car Accident UK?

Yes, psychological injuries can be claimed if they result from a workplace accident.

How Do I Report A Work-Related Injury Or Illness?

Report it to your employer, ensure it is logged in the accident book, and seek medical attention.

What Is The Accident Book, And Should My Employer Have One?

It’s a log of workplace injuries. Employers with 10+ staff must have one.

Can I Claim Benefits If I’m Unable To Work Due To A Workplace Injury?

You may be eligible for Statutory Sick Pay or other disability benefits.

Useful Workplace Accident Links

Citizens Advice:  Offers guidance on what to do if you’re injured at work, including how to report it.

UNISON: Provides information on employer responsibilities and employee rights regarding workplace accidents.

Health and Safety Executive (HSE): Guidance on employers’ legal duties to report workplace accidents under RIDDOR.