Although statistically most accidents occur at home, many people in Northern Ireland spend a significant amount of time at work. If you’re injured on the job, it’s crucial to follow the proper steps if you plan to seek compensation.

Workplace accidents, whether a trip, fall, slip, or serious injury involving equipment, can be devastating and a real source of anxiety. Often, people neglect to address these incidents, even though they can cause lasting damage.

Workplace accidents can lead to serious injuries, such as broken bones, crushed limbs, or amputations. If this occurs, you have the right to seek legal representation and consider a compensation claim. Taking this step not only supports your recovery but can also help prevent similar incidents in the future.

What To Do if You Are Injured At Work

After an injury at work, your priority should be recovery. Take the time you need to heal and consult with your doctor and any specialists they recommend.

During this time, keep a detailed record of the incident, photograph your injury and progress, and save all related receipts. This documentation will be valuable if you decide to pursue a compensation claim with your employer’s insurance.

What if My Employer Doesn’t Have Insurance?

By law, all employers in Northern Ireland must have Employers Liability (EL) insurance and be insured for at least £5 million. Most insurers automatically provide cover of at least £10 million.

Employers’ liability (EL) insurance enables businesses to meet the costs of damages and legal fees for employees who are injured or made ill at work through the fault of the employer. Employees injured due to an employer’s negligence can seek compensation even if the business goes into liquidation or receivership.

The Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland (HSENI) is responsible for enforcing the law on EL insurance and have issued guidance for employers. An employer can be fined up to £2,500 for each day that they do not have appropriate insurance.

Lacey Solicitors in Belfast can carry out checks against an employer to establish whether or not they have insurance if you have been injured at work.

Steps to Take After an Accident at Work in Northern Ireland

If you’re injured at work, taking the right steps is crucial to protect your interests and strengthen your compensation claim. Here’s what you should do after a workplace accident:

STEP ONE – Seek Medical Attention
If your injury requires hospital care, ensure you take a colleague with you. This helps prevent your employer from denying the accident occurred.

STEP TWO – Report the Injury to Your Employer
It’s important to immediately report the injury to your employer. UK businesses are required to maintain an accident record book. If your employer fails to document the incident, follow up with an email detailing the accident, the time it occurred, and any medical treatment you received.

STEP THREE – Document Your Recovery
Record your recovery journey by taking photographs or videos of your injury and its progress. Keeping a daily log of your healing process helps illustrate the pain and suffering you endured, which can be essential in a legal claim.

STEP FOUR – Collect Witness Statements
Gather contact details and statements from anyone who witnessed the accident, as well as anyone who accompanied you to the hospital. This evidence can strengthen your case when pursuing compensation and can greatly assist your legal team.

By following these steps after a workplace injury, you ensure your rights are protected and can make it easier to pursue a compensation claim for your injuries.

Injured at Work? Seek Legal Advice

Lacey Solicitors, with offices in Belfast and Dublin, is a leading insurance and injury law firm. We represent both insurers in defending claims and innocent victims of injury. Our unique position, acting for both claimants and defendants across Ireland, gives us valuable insight into each case, enabling us to deliver tailored and effective legal solutions for the best chance of success.

If you have been injured at work, contact Lacey Solicitors using our online portal for trusted personal injury legal assistance.

December 2, 2024

Steps to Take if You Suffer A Personal Injury at Work

What To Do if You Are Injured At Work

What if My Employer Doesn’t Have Insurance?

Steps to Take After an Accident at Work in Northern Ireland

Injured at Work? Seek Legal Advice

Speak to an Expert at Lacey Solicitors today.

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