How to File an At Work Injury Claim and Get Compensated

Table of Contents

1. What Is an At Work Injury?

An at work injury refers to any physical or psychological harm sustained while performing duties at your job. This can range from minor cuts and strains to serious accidents like falls, burns, or long-term health conditions due to exposure.

Under UK law, employers are legally responsible for maintaining a safe working environment for all staff.

2. Common Causes of At Work Injuries

At work injuries often result from:

Slips, trips, and falls
Manual handling accidents
Falls from height
Machinery or equipment faults
Exposure to harmful substances
Lack of personal protective equipment (PPE)
Workplace violence or stress

If your employer’s negligence contributed to your injury, you may be entitled to compensation.

3. Can You Make a Claim for an At Work Injury?

Yes, you can claim if:

The injury occurred within the last three years
It happened while you were working
Your employer was at fault, or you were injured due to unsafe practices or lack of proper training

Even if you were partly to blame, you might still receive compensation.

4. What Can You Claim Compensation For?

If you suffer an at work injury, you may be able to claim for:

Pain and suffering
Medical treatment costs
Loss of earnings
Travel to medical appointments
Rehabilitation and ongoing care
Impact on quality of life or future job prospects

Compensation is based on injury severity and how the injury has affected your daily life.

5. What to Do Immediately After an Injury at Work

After an injury:

Seek medical attention immediately
Report the incident to your supervisor or HR
Record it in the company’s accident book
Collect evidence: take photos, save medical receipts, and get witness contact details

These steps are crucial for building a strong claim later on.

6. Your Employer’s Legal Duties

Employers must:

Provide a safe working environment
Conduct regular risk assessments
Offer proper training and PPE
Maintain equipment and machinery

Failing in these duties can result in liability for injuries sustained by employees.

7. Do I Need a Solicitor?

While not mandatory, hiring a personal injury solicitor can:

Maximise your compensation
Handle negotiations with your employer’s insurer
Gather the right evidence and medical reports
Help you avoid mistakes in paperwork or process

Most solicitors offer a No Win, No Fee service for at work injury claims.

8. How Long Does a Work Injury Claim Take?

Timelines vary based on injury severity and whether liability is accepted:

Simple cases: 6 to 9 months
Complex or disputed claims: 12 months or more

Delays can occur if medical evaluations or expert reports are needed.

9. Can You Be Fired for Making a Claim?

No. It’s illegal in the UK to dismiss an employee for pursuing a legitimate injury claim. If it happens:

You may also be able to claim for unfair dismissal
You’re protected under employment law

Most employers have insurance to cover such claims and understand the process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can agency workers claim for an injury at work?
Yes, if the site or agency failed to uphold safety standards.

Q2: Can I claim for stress or mental health issues caused by work?
Yes, especially if linked to bullying, overwork, or a lack of support.

Q3: What happens if I don’t report the injury right away?
It’s still possible to claim, but it’s harder to prove—always report ASAP.

Q4: How much compensation can I get for an at work injury?
Payouts range from £1,000 for minor injuries to £100,000+ for severe or permanent conditions.

Q5: Do I have to go to court?
Most claims are settled out of court. Court is only necessary if liability is disputed.

Q6: Can I switch solicitors during a claim?
Yes, but check your current agreement before doing so.

Conclusion

Suffering an at work injury can disrupt your life—but you don’t have to face it alone. With proper medical care, evidence, and the support of a skilled solicitor, you can claim the compensation you’re legally entitled to. Know your rights, act quickly, and don’t be afraid to seek justice for workplace injuries.

Martin taggart