Injuries in the workplace are as common as injuries at home. Since you spend vast periods of time at work, can you claim compensation if you become injured? This article explores.
Workplace injuries are one of the leading reasons for accidents within the UK and Northern Ireland. Coupled with road traffic collisions, accidents at work are up there in the top three reasons why people in the UK and NI might make a claim for compensation for their injuries. The third reason is trips and falls, although these can happen in the workplace, too.
Employers’ Liability Insurance is Mandatory in the UK
The first thing you should consider is that every employer in the UK must have employers’ liability insurance. This is a type of insurance specifically designed to offer monetary support to the employee, should there be an accident at work.
If you bring a claim for compensation against an employer for an industrial disease, loss of digits, amputations, or any accidents in the workplace, then it is the insurer who will fit the bill. If the employer does not pay extra to cover the legal costs within their policy then they may be the ones who pay for the legal costs.
What is Covered by Employer’s Liability Insurance?
Employers’ Liability Insurance covers the costs of any illness or injury an employee suffers if the workplace or job is responsible. It covers scenarios such as faulty equipment leading to injuries, incorrectly setup desks and chairs leading to back pain, or falls from height in construction projects due to unsafe scaffolding.
How do you Claim Compensation from an Employer?
In the UK and Northern Ireland, the best way to begin your claim for compensation is to consult with a specialist personal injury solicitor. You have the legal right to proceed with a claim without hiring legal aid, but you should keep in mind who your opposition is. The insurance company or your employer will hire legal representation to defend themselves. To secure your chances at maximum compensation, a solicitor is the best choice.
Steps to Claiming Compensation from your Employer
1 – Contact the Advisory Conciliation and Arbitration Service to discuss a resolution*.
2 – When they have examined your case, ACAS will send a certificate to you
3 – Make your claim to the employment tribunal
* You must act within three months of the issue or termination of employment
When to Hire a Lawyer?
You should hire your lawyer from the moment you make your mind up of your intent to sue. Initial consultations don’t usually cost anything and they can give you an expert opinion on what they think your claim for compensation might be worth from the outset.
Hiring legal representation will give you the best chance of winning your case and receiving compensation after you are injured at work. Remember: if you don’t bring a claim for compensation after unfair treatment leads to an accident which causes you harm, then it could happen to the next person. It’s not just about financial recompense. It is about safeguarding.
