- What Are Factory Accidents Claims? Factory accidents claims refer to legal actions taken by workers injured in industrial settings due to unsafe conditions, equipment failures, or employer negligence. These claims allow victims to seek compensation for injuries, financial losses, and long-term impacts on their health and career.
- Who Can Make a Factory Accident Claim? You can make a claim if:
- You were injured while working in a factory
- The injury occurred within the last three years
- Your employer or a third party was at fault
- You were an employee, contractor, or agency worker at the time
- Common Causes of Factory Accidents
- Slips, trips, and falls on factory floors
- Machinery malfunctions or entanglement
- Exposure to hazardous substances
- Forklift truck or vehicle collisions
- Falling objects from racking or shelving
- Poor lighting or ventilation
- Lack of proper training or safety procedures
- Types of Injuries in Factory Environments
- Fractures and broken bones
- Burns, cuts, and lacerations
- Crushing injuries
- Spinal and head injuries
- Hearing loss from loud machinery
- Respiratory issues due to chemical exposure
- Amputations or severe trauma
- Psychological trauma (e.g., PTSD after a serious accident)
- Employer Responsibilities in Factories Employers must comply with the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974, which includes:
- Providing a safe working environment
- Maintaining equipment and machinery
- Offering health and safety training
- Conducting regular risk assessments
- Supplying appropriate PPE (Personal Protective Equipment)
- What to Do After a Factory Accident
- Seek immediate medical attention and follow treatment plans
- Report the incident to your supervisor or manager
- Ensure the accident is logged in the workplace accident book
- Take photographs of the scene and your injuries
- Collect witness details and statements
- Contact a solicitor for legal advice and representation
- Can You Make a No Win No Fee Claim? Yes. Most solicitors offer no win no fee agreements, which means:
- No upfront costs to start your claim
- You only pay if the claim is successful
- A capped success fee (usually 25%) is taken from your compensation
- After-the-Event (ATE) insurance may cover legal costs if the claim fails
- What Compensation Can You Claim? A successful factory accident claim may include:
- General damages for pain, suffering, and emotional distress
- Special damages for financial losses, including:
- Lost income and future earning potential
- Medical and rehabilitation expenses
- Travel and transport costs
- Adaptations to home or vehicle
- Ongoing care or therapy
- Time Limit for Factory Accident Claims In the UK, the general time limit for personal injury claims is three years from:
- The date of the accident
- Or the date you became aware of the injury’s link to your work
- What If You Were a Temporary or Agency Worker?
You can still claim if:
- The injury happened on factory premises
- The factory had a duty of care toward you
- The accident was caused by unsafe practices, poor training, or lack of equipment
Legal liability may rest with the factory owner, agency, or both.
- How Much Compensation Could You Receive?
- Minor injuries: £1,000 – £5,000
- Moderate injuries: £5,000 – £25,000
- Serious or life-changing injuries: £25,000 – £250,000+
Your solicitor will calculate the value based on medical reports and financial losses.
- Do You Need to Go to Court?
Most factory accident claims are settled out of court. Court proceedings are only necessary if:
- Liability is denied
- The insurer offers a low settlement
- There are complex or long-term injuries
- Evidence Needed for a Strong Claim
- Medical records and diagnosis
- Accident report and workplace records
- Photos of the scene and injuries
- Witness statements
- Training logs and risk assessments
- Employment contract or agency agreement
- Industrial Disease Claims from Factory Work
You can also claim for long-term conditions caused by factory work, such as:
- Asbestos-related illnesses
- Industrial deafness
- Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS)
- Occupational asthma or dermatitis
These claims are subject to the same time limits but may begin from the date of diagnosis.
- How a Solicitor Supports Your Factory Accident Claim
- Assesses your eligibility and potential compensation
- Manages all legal documents and deadlines
- Arranges independent medical assessments
- Negotiates with employers and insurers
- Guides you through court processes if necessary
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I claim if I was partly to blame?
Yes. Your compensation may be reduced, but you can still claim under contributory negligence. - Will my job be affected if I make a claim?
No. It is illegal for employers to dismiss or retaliate against employees for claiming compensation. - Do I need a solicitor to claim?
It’s not required, but using a specialist solicitor increases your chances of success and getting full compensation. - What if the factory has closed down?
You may still claim if the factory had valid liability insurance at the time of the accident. - Can I claim for stress caused by the accident?
Yes, psychological trauma is included in valid claims if supported by medical evidence. - How soon should I contact a solicitor?
As soon as possible. Early action helps preserve evidence and speeds up the process.
Conclusion
Factory accident claims help injured workers recover the compensation they need to move forward. Whether you’ve suffered a minor injury or a life-altering trauma, you’re legally entitled to pursue damages for your losses. With the support of an experienced no win no fee solicitor, claiming compensation is straightforward, affordable, and focused on your recovery.