Injured on a Building Site? How to Claim Compensation

Table of Contents

1. What Are Construction Accidents?

Accidents in construction involve injuries that occur on building sites due to unsafe working conditions, equipment failure, or lack of safety procedures. Construction is one of the UK’s most dangerous industries, accounting for a significant number of workplace injuries and fatalities each year.

2. Common Types of Construction Site Accidents

Construction accidents often include:

Falls from height (scaffolding, ladders, roofs)
Falling objects (tools, debris, materials)
Machinery accidents (cranes, forklifts, power tools)
Electrical shocks or burns
Trips and slips on uneven or cluttered surfaces
Exposure to hazardous substances (asbestos, chemicals, dust)
Structural collapses or cave-ins

3. Injuries Caused by Construction Accidents

Common injuries include:

Broken bones and fractures
Spinal injuries and paralysis
Head and brain trauma
Amputations or crush injuries
Burns, cuts, and lacerations
Eye injuries or hearing loss
Psychological trauma (e.g., PTSD or anxiety)

Even minor injuries can impact your ability to work and earn a living.

4. What Are Your Employer’s Responsibilities?

Under UK health and safety laws, employers must:

Conduct regular risk assessments
Provide proper training and supervision
Supply safety equipment and PPE (hard hats, harnesses, gloves)
Maintain equipment and machinery
Ensure safe access to work areas
Follow Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015

Failing to meet these duties may amount to negligence, making the employer liable for any resulting injuries.

5. Can You Claim Compensation for a Construction Accident?

Yes. You may be eligible to claim if:

The accident occurred within the last three years
You were injured due to employer negligence, a contractor, or a third party
You suffered financial losses due to the injury

Both employees and contractors may be eligible to claim, even if they are self-employed.

6. What Can You Claim Compensation For?

General Damages:

Pain and suffering
Physical and emotional trauma
Long-term disability or disfigurement

Special Damages:

Lost earnings (past and future)
Medical and rehabilitation expenses
Travel costs
Home or vehicle adaptations
Care and assistance at home

7. How Much Compensation Could You Receive?

Compensation varies based on injury severity:

Minor injury (sprain or cut): £1,000 – £6,000
Moderate injuries (fractures, recovery required): £6,000 – £25,000
Severe injury (amputation, spinal damage): £50,000 – £500,000+

Special damages can significantly increase your final payout.

8. No Win No Fee Construction Accident Claims

Most construction accident solicitors offer no win no fee services:

You pay nothing upfront
Fees are only due if you win
Legal costs are capped at 25% of your compensation

This allows injured workers to claim without financial risk.

9. Time Limits for Making a Construction Injury Claim

In most cases, you have three years from:

The date of the accident, or
The date you discovered your injury was caused by the accident

Exceptions apply for children or individuals without mental capacity.

10. How to Start a Construction Accident Claim

Seek medical attention immediately
Report the accident to your employer or site manager
Ensure it’s logged in the accident book
Gather photos, witness details, and medical records
Contact a personal injury solicitor specialising in construction claims

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I claim if I’m self-employed?
Yes. If another company or main contractor was negligent, you can still claim.

Q2: What if my accident was partly my fault?
You may still receive compensation, but the amount may be reduced.

Q3: Will I lose my job for making a claim?
It’s illegal to dismiss or treat an employee unfairly for filing a legitimate compensation claim.

Q4: Do I need to go to court?
Most claims are settled out of court. A court appearance is rare and only happens if liability is disputed.

Q5: Can I claim for mental health issues after an accident?
Yes. Psychological injuries such as PTSD or anxiety are valid grounds for compensation.

Q6: How long does a construction claim take?

Simple claims: 6–12 months
Complex or serious injuries: 1–3 years

Conclusion

If you’ve suffered an injury due to unsafe site conditions, faulty equipment, or poor supervision, accidents in construction may entitle you to compensation. With the right legal help and evidence, you can claim what you’re owed, protect your future, and support your recovery. Act now—contact a no win no fee solicitor and start your claim today.

Martin taggart