You may potentially have a claim for compensation because your employer has a clear duty of care to their employees; if these standards have not been met and it has resulted in you having an accident, you may be within your rights to pursue a claim. All employers by law should have employer’s liability insurance which covers them for any accidents that may occur. You should not feel in any way worried about pursing a claim against your employers, there is nothing that they can legally do to cease your employment as a result of an accident – this is just a common misconception.
Try to record the accident circumstances wherever possible: what happened, why, who do you feel is to blame? For example, if you were working up a ladder and there was no one around to assist you as a requirement i.e. footing the ladder whilst you are up it, and because you didn’t receive the adequate assistance you subsequently fell and sustained injury, you may have a claim. In these circumstances you should record the time and date of the accident. If you feel that the accident happened because no one was there to provide you with assistance when they should have done, then you may have a claim.
Record your expenses and losses – What have you had to pay for as a result of your accident? Have you had to pay for any treatment? If so try and keep receipts where possible. These can potentially be claimed back as part of your claim for compensation.
When selecting a firm to deal with your claim for compensation, always try to claim with a firm of independent solicitors. That way you will know that the maximum compensation will be fought for on your behalf. Many law firms are tied to insurance and claims management companies and therefore do not devote all of their time and resources to you, as they pay referral fees to deal with your claim. These fees are covered by them by not providing the best service for you; they won’t fight for the maximum compensation that you are entitled to.
If you are unsure about any part of claiming against your employer, or if you just wish to discuss the procedures of claiming in general, feel free to give The Injury Lawyers a call and we will assist you wherever we can.