With nearly 2,000 non-fatal workplace injuries reported in Great Britain between 2022 and 2023, knowing the proper steps to take following an accident at work is essential.
According to accident compensation experts at Claims.co.uk, understanding your rights and acting swiftly can be critical to both your safety and any potential compensation claims.
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Report the injury Immediately
The first step following a workplace accident is to report the incident to your employer. Ensure that a detailed written accident report is completed, including specific details like the time, location, and any witnesses. Retain a copy of this report for your records. Additionally, confirm whether your employer has reported the incident to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), as this documentation could be valuable evidence in your claim.
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Gather Evidence
Collecting evidence at the scene is crucial. Experts advise taking clear photographs and videos of the accident site, including any hazards or faulty equipment involved. As conditions can change rapidly, documenting the scene as soon as possible is important. Photos of any injuries sustained should also be taken to serve as visual proof of the incident’s severity. If a CCTV camera captured the event, request the footage from your employer, as they are legally required to provide it within 40 days.
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Obtain Witness Statements
If there were witnesses to the accident, gather signed statements from them detailing what they observed. Collect their contact information as well, as they may be required to provide additional evidence later.
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Keep Medical Records
Maintaining a thorough record of all medical treatment is vital. Keep copies of all reports, prescription receipts, and related correspondence. If obtaining medical records is challenging, a solicitor can request these on your behalf with your permission.
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Maintain a Personal Account
Keeping a detailed personal account of the accident, including a timeline of events, can significantly strengthen your claim. Record the incident, your medical treatment, and any communications with your employer. This documentation can be particularly useful if there is a dispute over responsibility for the accident.
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Follow Medical Advice about the injury
Adhering to medical advice and attending all follow-up appointments is essential for both your recovery and your claim. Non-compliance with medical recommendations can negatively impact your compensation claim.
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Return to Work with Caution
Do not rush back to work until you are fully ready. Returning prematurely can aggravate your injury. If your doctor recommends specific conditions for your return, such as avoiding heavy lifting or working reduced hours, ensure your employer respects these limitations.
Making a Claim after an injury
If your workplace injury resulted from someone else’s negligence, such as a failure by your employer to maintain a safe working environment, you may be entitled to compensation. Claims must generally be made within three years of the incident or within three years of becoming aware of your injury or condition.
A spokesperson for Claims.co.uk emphasised, “In the aftermath of a workplace accident, it can be difficult to know what to do. However, whether the injury is minor or severe, if it was caused by someone else’s negligence, you are entitled to compensation. Documenting everything is crucial for your claim and can help prevent future accidents in the workplace.”
Taking these steps can help ensure that your legal rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you deserve while facilitating your recovery.
Amelia Brand is the Editor for HRreview, and host of the HR in Review podcast series. With a Master’s degree in Legal and Political Theory, her particular interests within HR include employment law, DE&I, and wellbeing within the workplace. Prior to working with HRreview, Amelia was Sub-Editor of a magazine, and Editor of the Environmental Justice Project at University College London, writing and overseeing articles into UCL’s weekly newsletter. Her previous academic work has focused on philosophy, politics and law, with a special focus on how artificial intelligence will feature in the future.
