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I Had An Accident At Work, What Are My Rights?
If you’ve been injured at work in London are want to know your rights, please read on.
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If you’ve found yourself thinking, “I had an accident at work – what are my rights?“, you’re not alone. Many workers across London find themselves unsure about their rights after an accident on the job. Therefore, we’ve produced this guide to set out when you might have grounds to claim compensation, the process involved, and how your rights are protected if you decide to take action.
Our experienced solicitors are equipped to help you navigate the claims process, wherever your accident happened. From Croydon high streets to offices in the City, warehouses in Barking, or construction sites near the Thames. We work to ensure you get clear, practical advice about making a claim for compensation and safeguarding your rights to a safe workplace.
To find out more about whether you’re eligible to make a claim and what steps to follow, read on. Or if you’d rather speak to someone now, you can contact our team online or call 020 7362 2085 for confidential, no-obligation support.
Am I Entitled To Compensation Following An Accident At Work?
In some cases, you’ll have the right to claim compensation following a workplace accident, when:
You were owed a duty of care by your employer (or the party you’re claiming against).
An accident at work occurred because that party breached its duty of care.
You suffered an injury, physical or psychological, as a result of the accident.
Under laws like the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974, employers have a legal duty to take reasonable steps to protect your health and safety while you are at work. Essentially, this means that, If they don’t, and you are injured as a result, you may well have a valid claim.
Even if you were partially at fault, you could still receive compensation, though your payment might be reduced to reflect your part in the accident (this is known as contributory negligence).
If you’re unsure whether your situation qualifies, our specialists can help you review your options and assess your eligibility for a claim. Therefore, why not call today for a free consultation?
Will I Lose My Job If I Make A Claim After An Accident At Work?
It’s completely understandable to worry about your job security if you’re considering making a claim after a workplace accident, especially in competitive London job markets. The important thing to know is that the law protects you from unfair treatment because you’ve asserted your rights after an accident.
Your employer is not legally allowed to dismiss you or treat you less favourably simply because you’ve made a compensation claim. Doing so could result in an additional claim of unfair dismissal or victimisation under the Employment Rights Act 1996.
In practice, most employers, have insurance to cover work accident claims and are familiar with the process. While it’s normal to feel uneasy about making a claim, your employer’s insurance, not their own pocket, is typically responsible for any payout. If you do encounter any negative treatment, you have further legal recourse, and our solicitors can advise on next steps.
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Meet Our Personal Injury Solicitors
Patrick Mallon
Patrick is the head of our personal injury claims department. He has been qualified as a solicitor for over 20 years and strives to get the very best result for his clients.
Emma Pomfret
Emma is a Chartered Legal Executive with over 10 years of experience. She is passionate about helping people claim compensation after suffering harm in car crashes
Can I Claim With A No Win No Fee Solicitor?
Many people hesitate to seek legal representation after a work accident, fearing high costs or financial risk. That’s why if we take on your claim, it will be managed on a No Win No Fee basis, a legal term for a Conditional Fee Agreement (CFA). This means that you don’t pay any upfront fees, and you will only pay our fees if your claim is successful.
How Long Do I Have To Start A Claim?
Generally, you have three years from the date of your accident, or from when you first realised you were injured or ill as a result of your work, to start a claim. This is known as the limitation period. There are exceptions, such as for those with reduced mental capacity or, in some industrial disease cases, when the effects appear years later.
To check how long you have to claim after an accident at work, please call our team today.
Common Injuries You Could Claim For
Workplaces in London are varied, from construction sites in Hackney, hospital wards in Haringey, to restaurants in Soho, and so are the possible injuries you might sustain. Some common examples include:
Slips, trips, and falls (often in kitchens, shops or warehouses).
Back, neck, and shoulder injuries (manual handling or repetitive strain).
Broken bones or fractures (from falling objects or machinery).
Burns or cuts (especially common in food service or manufacturing).
Industrial disease (such as work-related hearing loss or lung conditions).
Psychological injuries (like stress or trauma from workplace accidents).
Effectively, you could start an accident at work claim for any injuries caused be your employer’s negligence. Want to know more? If so, why not call today?
What Types Of Accidents Can I Claim For
You are likely to have the right to claim for a wide range of workplace accidents, where employer negligence or unsafe practices played a role. Below are some common scenarios where employees might have grounds to claim:
Falls from height (such as on scaffolding in construction).
Machinery or equipment accidents.
Slips on wet floors or icy walkways (inside shops, stations, or offices).
Manual handling injuries from lifting, carrying, or moving heavy objects.
Vehicle accidents (e.g. on the North Circular or A40 if driving for work).
Exposure to hazardous substances (common in healthcare, cleaning, or laboratories).
Repetitive strain injuries resulting from poor desk setups.
Violence or assault in the workplace.
Remember, whatever type of accident you’ve been involved in, we are happy to review your case for free. To learn more about your options, please call today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to report my workplace accident to my employer?
Yes, it is essential to report your accident to your employer as soon as possible, ideally in writing, and ensure the incident is recorded in the company’s accident book. This is not only important for health and safety reasons but will also provide vital evidence if you decide to pursue a claim. Failing to report the accident promptly could weaken your case.
What evidence do I need to support my claim?
To support your workplace accident claim, gather as much evidence as possible. This might include photographs of the scene, witness statements, details from the accident book, medical reports, and any correspondence with your employer. Strong evidence strengthens your case and improves your chances of success.
Will I need to go to court for my accident at work claim?
Most workplace accident claims are settled out of court through negotiation between solicitors and insurance companies. However, if liability is denied or a reasonable settlement cannot be reached, your case may proceed to court. Your solicitor will support and represent you throughout the process.
Can I claim if my workplace accident made a pre-existing condition worse?
Yes, in many cases, claims may be possible where a pre-existing condition is made worse. Importantly, it must be proven that your additional suffering was caused by your employer’s breach of duty. This is the type of case that may benefit strongly from the support of a solicitor that specialises in workplace injury claims.