Suffering an injury at work can be stressful and disruptive.
In serious cases, an accident from work can make it impossible for someone to do their job.
If you suffer an injury at work, it’s important to know the action you need to take.
This step-by-step guide outlines what you must do following an accident at work in the UK.
Who should you report your workplace injury to?
The first step after an accident is to report it to the appropriate person within your company.
Typically, this will be your direct supervisor or manager, the health and safety officer, or HR department.
Most workplaces will have an accident at work procedure in place.
Reporting your injury should ensure the incident is officially documented. Your employer should also use the information you provide to take corrective actions to reduce the risk of future injuries.
If you don’t report the injury, this might impact any claim for compensation later, so it’s always best to report your injury as soon as possible.
What steps to take immediately after a workplace injury
If an injury at work occurs, taking the following steps can help safeguard your legal rights while ensuring you receive treatment for your injury:
- Seek medical attention
Even if your injury seems minor, it’s essential that it’s evaluated by a medical specialist as soon as possible. Some injuries, such as concussions or internal damage, are not always immediately apparent.
- Report the accident
Your employer should be notified as quickly as possible following the accident at work procedure. Some companies will have a time limit for reporting work injuries, so it’s important to act quickly.
- Report the incident
The details of the incident should be logged into the company’s accident book. This should include the date, time, location, and circumstances of the accident. If your workplace doesn’t have an accident book, write down the details in full. These should then be submitted to your immediate manager or HR.
- Gather evidence
Take photographs of the accident scene, any hazardous conditions, and your injury. Any conditions that may have contributed to the incident should be included. The more details and evidence you can collate, the stronger any compensation claim is likely to be.
- Obtain witness statements
If your injury was seen by your colleagues then they should be asked to provide written statements that can support your claim.
- Keep a personal record
A diary detailing your injury, symptoms, medical treatments you receive, and how the injury impacts your daily life and ability to work can be valuable for any compensation claim.
Which benefits and/or compensation are you entitled to?
If you’ve had an accident at work, you may be entitled to certain benefits and compensation. These include:
- Statutory Sick Pay (SSP)
If you’re unable to work due to your injury, you may be eligible for SSP from your employer for up to 28 weeks.
- Workers’ compensation
You may be entitled to claim compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and lost wages.
- Employer liability claim
If negligence was involved in your injury, you may be able to file a personal injury claim against your employer.
- Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit (IIDB)
If your injury leaves you seriously ill or injured in the long term, then you may qualify for IIDB payments.
- Personal injury claim
If your injury was due to employer negligence, unsafe conditions, or defective equipment, then you may be able to claim additional compensation.
A legal expert can provide advice regarding which benefits you may be eligible for.
Who can help you navigate the claims process?
Understanding what you may be entitled to and navigating the claims process can be complex.
Professional legal help can increase your chances of securing the compensation to which you are entitled.
A solicitor will be able to help you:
- Evaluate whether you have a valid claim
- Gather supporting evidence, such as medical reports and workplace safety records.
- Negotiating with insurers and employers to secure a fair settlement
- Representing you in court if necessary
Contacting a legal professional as soon as possible after your injury can simplify the process and increase the chances of your compensation claim being successful.
What to do if your workers compensation claim is unsuccessful
In some instances, an initial compensation claim may be unsuccessful.
There are steps you can take when this happens which can often result in a different outcome:
- Review the reason for rejection
Your employer or insurance provider must provide a valid reason for denying the claim. Some of the common reasons given can include a lack of evidence, missed deadlines, or disputes over liability.
- Gather additional evidence
Gathering further evidence such as witness testimonies, medical reports, and expert opinions can all further strengthen your case.
- File an appeal
You may be able to challenge the decision through an appeals process. A solicitor will be able to guide you on the best course of action.
If your claim is unsuccessful, you should consult a legal expert.
They will help you assess your options and provide the necessary representation if required.
Many solicitors work on a no-win, no-fee basis, meaning you will only pay if you receive compensation.
If your claim is unsuccessful, you may still be eligible for government benefits, such as Universal Credit or disability benefits.
Get the compensation you deserve with Wafer Phillips
At Wafer Phillips, we have more than 25 years’ experience in successful injury claims.
Our friendly, down-to-earth approach and single-minded determination help to deliver the best possible outcome for you and your family.
Contact us today for professional and confidential advice.
