Accident at work claim: Your guide to compensation

If you have suffered an injury whilst at work, understanding your rights and the process of making an accident at work claim is essential. Many people are unsure of their entitlement to compensation after a workplace accident. In this guide, we’ll cover the key information you need and explain how Personal Injury Solicitors can help you bring a successful claim in England and Wales.

Every year, thousands of employees across the UK are injured at work, but not all know that they may be eligible for workplace injury compensation. Understanding the legal framework, your employer’s duties, and how work accident solicitors can support your workplace accident claims is the first step to securing the compensation you deserve.

Understanding accident at work claims

An accident at work claim is a legal process that allows an employee to seek compensation for injuries suffered due to their employer’s negligence. The law in England and Wales requires employers to provide a safe workplace and adequate training. If an employer breaches this duty and you are injured as a result, you may have grounds for a claim.

• Claims can be brought for physical injuries, psychological harm, or illnesses caused by the work environment.
• The process involves proving that your employer owed you a duty of care and failed to meet it.
• Compensation can cover lost earnings, medical costs, and rehabilitation.

Learn more about employer duties on the Health and Safety Executive website.

What types of workplace accidents can lead to a claim?

Workplace accidents that may lead to a successful accident at work claim include:

• Slips, trips, and falls on work premises.
• Injuries from faulty or poorly maintained equipment.
• Manual handling injuries.
• Exposure to hazardous substances.
• Falls from height.
• Repetitive strain injuries.
• Accidents caused by lack of proper training or supervision.

These are just examples. If you are unsure whether your situation qualifies for workplace injury compensation, consult an experienced work accident solicitor.

Legal duties of employers

Under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, employers in England and Wales have a legal obligation to protect employees from harm. Key responsibilities include:

• Providing adequate training and supervision.
• Maintaining equipment and premises in a safe condition.
• Carrying out regular risk assessments.
• Ensuring staff understand safety procedures.
• Reporting serious accidents as required by law.

Failure to meet these duties can form the basis for an accident at work claim and lead to employer liability for injuries sustained.

How to bring an accident at work claim

1. Report the accident: Notify your employer and ensure the incident is logged in the workplace accident book.
2. Seek medical attention: Always see a medical professional, even for minor injuries.
3. Gather evidence: Collect photographs, witness details, medical reports, and any correspondence.
4. Contact work accident solicitors: Experienced solicitors can assess your case and guide you through the process.
5. Time limits: In England and Wales, most claims must be brought within three years of the accident date.

Compensation in accident at work claims

The amount of compensation in a successful accident at work claim depends on several factors, including the severity of your injuries and the impact on your life. Compensation may cover:

• General damages for pain, suffering, and loss of amenity.
• Special damages for lost earnings and out-of-pocket expenses.
• Future loss of earnings or care costs.
• Medical and rehabilitation costs.

Each work injury claim is unique, so it’s important to seek advice from experienced work accident solicitors.

What evidence is needed for a successful claim?

Strong evidence increases the likelihood of a successful accident at work claim. Useful evidence includes:

• Accident book entry.
• Medical records and reports.
• Photographs of the accident scene and injuries.
• Witness statements.
• Correspondence with your employer.

If you have questions about the evidence needed, contact our team for tailored advice.

Real-world case studies

At Fosters Solicitors, we have experience in acting in these type of cases, representing a number of clients to reach settlement in their work accident claim. Including:

£65,000 settlement for employee injured at work.

£87,000 obtained for injured mechanic.

Settlement for client injured polishing gravestones.

Expert insights on accident at work claims

Legal experts highlight the following points for employees considering a work injury claim:

• Employers cannot legally dismiss you for bringing a genuine claim.
• Your claim is usually funded on a ‘no win, no fee’ basis, meaning no risk to you.
• Early legal advice can strengthen your case and improve your compensation outcome.

For more expert guidance, consult our expert personal injury lawyers.

Fosters Solicitors’ Personal Injury Team are here to provide specialist support and advice on workplace injury claims.

We understand you will want to know how we can assist, so we offer a free of charge no obligation first meeting or chat, which we follow up with a full letter of advice. If you are in any doubt as to whether you have a claim, please do contact us, again completely without obligation.

We are also able to discuss how you can cover the cost of a claim, including through a no win no fee agreement.

Please call us on 01603 620508 or complete the contact form.

Benefits and challenges of accident at work claims

• Benefits:
  • Financial compensation for injuries and losses.
  • Access to rehabilitation and support.
  • Encourages safer workplace practices.
  • Can help prevent similar accidents for others.
• Challenges:
  • Proving employer negligence can be complex.
  • Emotional stress during the claims process.
  • Strict time limits apply in England and Wales.
  • Gathering sufficient evidence.

FAQs About Accident at Work Claims

What is an accident at work claim?

An accident at work claim is a legal process where an employee seeks compensation for injuries caused by their employer’s negligence in the workplace.

How do I start a workplace accident claim?

1. Report the accident to your employer and log it in the accident book.
2. Seek medical attention for your injuries.
3. Gather evidence such as photos and witness details.
4. Contact work accident solicitors for legal advice.

What injuries can I claim for?

You can bring a claim for physical injuries (such as fractures or burns), psychological harm (such as anxiety or PTSD), and illnesses related to workplace conditions.

How much compensation can I receive for an accident at work?

The amount varies depending on the severity of your injuries and their impact on your life, but typical compensation includes general damages (pain and suffering) and special damages (loss of earnings, medical costs).

Are there time limits for making a work injury claim?

Yes. In England and Wales, you generally have three years from the date of the accident to bring a claim.

Table: Common Types of Workplace Accidents and Compensation Ranges

Definition: What is employer liability?

Employer liability refers to an employer’s legal responsibility to protect employees from harm and compensate them if negligence leads to injury at work.

This article was produced on the 20th August 2025 for information purposes only and should not be construed or relied upon as specific legal advice.