Accidents at Work
There’s no doubting the fact that, in the 21st century, our work is a vital part of who we are. After all, the first question most people ask upon meeting someone new is ‘what do you do?’ , which is why the nature of a person’s job is fundamental to their sense of identity. It’s for this reason that an injury or illness brought about by negligence in the workplace can be so devastating.
When you work, you’re trying your best in return for both your wages and a sense of job satisfaction. What you also expect, however, is a safe working environment, and, in the event of a personal injury caused by the negligence of others you have every right to feel badly let down, either by your employers or by your workmates. Whilst compensation for a workplace accident can never truly make up for the distress involved it can help to reimburse you for any lost earnings and provide the feeling that justice has been done on your behalf.
Making A Claim
If you feel that you’ve been inured following an accident at work and may have a case for a claim, then you will need to provide evidence to back up this case. The evidence will have to demonstrate that your injuries were caused by negligence or the working practices in the workplace. This evidence could include any of the following:
- An accident book
- Witness statements
- Previous similar work accidents
- Employers logs
- Ambulance attendance at the scene
- Doctors notes
It will then be up to you and, more importantly, the expert injury solicitor that we have working on your behalf, to demonstrate that the injuries were the result of negligence on the part of your employer. Some people may feel uncomfortable at the thought of giving evidence against their employer, but you should always bear the following in mind:
- You are not on your own. A solicitor will be there to advise you throughout the process.
- Employers have insurance which covers any losses caused by your claim – the money won’t be coming directly from your boss.
- One or two such cases might actually help employers to improve their health and safety, and therefore avoid larger lawsuits in the future.
- The laws which are in place mean that employers who are unwilling to compensate for workplace injuries or to change their practices will face far stiffer penalties.
You may still be reluctant to start a case against your boss, despite the legislation which is in place, so it will be useful and reassuring to go over the details of your case with a no win no fee lawyer before starting any action.
Always remember that times have changed since workers were expected to put up with poor conditions and dangerous practices. Injury and illness brought about by the negligence of others is not something anybody should just put up with. No matter how important it may seem, there is no job that is more important than your good health and quality of life.