Steps to Take if You Suffer A Personal Injury at Work

Posted on 2 December 202431 January 2025 by Lacey Solicitors

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.

How Much Is a Personal Injury Claim Worth? A Guide by Lacey Solicitors Belfast

Posted on 15 November 20249 September 2025 by Lacey Solicitors

If you’ve suffered a personal injury, whether from a car accident, slip and fall, or workplace incident, one of the most pressing questions you’ll have is: How much is my personal injury claim worth? At Lacey Solicitors, a leading injury and insurance law firm with offices in Belfast and Dublin, we understand that the value of your claim is vital to achieving fair compensation. However, determining the exact value of a personal injury claim is not an exact science. In this article, we’ll explain how personal injury claims are assessed, the role of judges in determining the value, and how experienced solicitors like us can help guide you through the process.

Understanding How Injury Claims Are Valued

Personal injury claims vary widely in value, depending on multiple factors related to the individual’s injuries, recovery, and long-term impact on their life. Each case is unique, and the value of a claim is determined by applying various elements of evidence, including medical reports, expert testimonies, and previous case precedents. Ultimately, the judge’s training, experience, and sense of fairness help arrive at a reasonable and proportionate award.

Key Factors in Valuing a Personal Injury Compensation Claim

Several critical factors influence the valuation of a personal injury claim. These factors include:

1. Severity of the Injury

The extent of the injury is one of the most significant determinants. A minor injury, like a sprained ankle or soft tissue damage, typically leads to a lower compensation amount, while serious injuries, such as fractures, brain injuries, or permanent disability, will attract higher compensation.

2. Impact on Quality of Life

Judges assess how your injury affects your daily life, including your ability to work, participate in social activities, and maintain relationships. A more severe injury that has a lasting effect on your quality of life will result in a higher compensation pay-out.

3. Pain and Suffering

Compensation for pain and suffering is subjective and can vary based on the severity and duration of the pain. The emotional and psychological impact of an injury, including anxiety or depression, is also considered in this category.

4. Medical Expenses and Future Costs

Your medical treatment, rehabilitation, and potential long-term care costs play a role in determining compensation. If you require ongoing care, a judge will factor in these future expenses when assessing the overall claim value.

5. Lost Earnings

Compensation for lost earnings is an essential component of any injury claim. If your injury prevents you from working, or reduces your ability to earn, the claim will include compensation for lost wages and potentially for future earning capacity.

6. Liability and Negligence

Who is responsible for your injury also plays a role. If the other party is clearly at fault and liable for the incident, you may receive more compensation. However, if there is shared or disputed liability, the claim may be worth less.

The Role of Judges in Assessing Injury Claims

In Northern Ireland, personal injury claims are assessed by judges, who apply their experience, training, and fairness to evaluate each case individually. There is no one-size-fits-all figure, as each case presents its own unique facts and circumstances. The role of the judge is to:

Assess the Injury: The judge will carefully evaluate the medical evidence to understand the extent of the injury.
Assess the Suffering: The judge will consider the pain, distress, and emotional impact of the injury on the individual.
Assess the Severity: The judge will look at how severe the injury is and whether it results in permanent damage or long-term disability.
Assess the Impact on Quality of Life: Judges will determine how the injury has altered the individual’s ability to live their normal life.
Determine an Appropriate and Proportionate Award: Based on these assessments, the judge will decide on a fair compensation award.

Medical Evidence and the Role of Solicitors

To assist the court in making an informed decision, solicitors will work to gather medical evidence from expert doctors and healthcare professionals. These medical reports are critical in establishing the seriousness of the injury and any ongoing care needs.

While every case is unique, judges will also refer to guidelines, previous case awards, and established precedents when making their assessment. Experienced solicitors can use these resources to estimate what a judge might award and negotiate with the opposing party accordingly.

For example, both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland have guidelines for personal injury compensation.

Northern Ireland: The Sixth Edition of the Guidelines for the Assessment of General Damages in Personal Injury Cases (known as the Green Book) provides a structured framework for valuing injuries based on their severity. You can find the guidelines here.
Republic of Ireland: The Personal Injuries Guidelines in Ireland are similarly used to determine appropriate compensation, setting out ranges for various types of injuries. These guidelines also consider the impact on the claimant’s ability to work and enjoy life. You can find those guidelines here.

Settling the Claim Before Court

In many cases, an experienced solicitor may engage with the opposing side to discuss an appropriate settlement. By considering the relevant guidelines, previous similar awards, and medical evidence, a solicitor can predict what a judge would likely award. If both parties agree, a settlement can be reached without the need for a lengthy court process.

However, if an agreement cannot be reached, the case will be taken to court, where a judge will ultimately decide on the compensation.

Why Choose Lacey Solicitors?

At Lacey Solicitors, we specialise in personal injury claims and Insurance law in both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. Our team has a unique advantage: we have experience representing both insurers and injured individuals, giving us a comprehensive understanding of how insurance companies assess and settle claims.

This experience allows us to accurately assess the value of your claim and help guide you toward a fair settlement. Whether you’re negotiating a settlement or going to court, our team of experts will ensure that your interests are protected.

Contact Lacey Solicitors for Expert Advice

If you’ve been injured and want to know how much your personal injury claim is worth, contact Lacey Solicitors today. Our team of experienced insurance lawyers will provide a free consultation to evaluate your case and give you an accurate estimate of the compensation you may be entitled to.

Call us now at 02890896540 or fill out our online contact form to get started. Let us help you get the compensation you deserve.

How to Make a Personal Injury Claim in Northern Ireland?

Posted on 15 November 20245 December 2024 by Lacey Solicitors

From Belfast to Bangor, people in Northern Ireland are involved in incidents that aren’t their fault and are injured as a result. But how do you make a claim for compensation if it happens to you?

If you have been involved in an accident in which you became injured and it wasn’t your fault, seeking compensation could provide you with the financial support to help you recover and move forward after an injury. Reporting the incident could even prevent that accident from happening to someone else. At Lacey Solicitors Belfast, our lawyers specialise in Insurance and Injury and could help you achieve the maximum possible compensation after a slip and fall, medical treatment gone wrong, or an accident at work.

How do you Make a Personal Injury Claim in Northern Ireland?

If you live in Belfast, Antrim, or anywhere else in NI, the process for bringing a compensation claim after an accident is always the same. The first thing you will need is an accident lawyer capable of representing your interests.

Lacey Solicitors have a proven record of commitment to a high quality service. Whether we are dealing with a significant fatal accident, to a minor whiplash injury, our approach is always the same and which is why our clients recommend us. We invest in technology that can speed up your appointment times, court dates and meetings etc. This frees up our solicitors to speak with you personally and speak with our opposition directly.

After you have chosen a personal injury solicitor, you can begin the process of making your claim for compensation.

Making Your Claim for Compensation

To begin your claim for compensation, our personal injury solicitors will arrange a discussion with you to take as much detail as possible. Some of the details that we might need is;

The date of the accident.

The location of the accident.

Employment details if it was an accident at work.

Registration numbers if it was a road traffic accident.

Your detailed recollection of how the incident occurred.

The names of all parties involved.

Any witness details

The treatment sought by you.

Once we have this information, we can determine if we think you have a case. If so, we will put together a claim summary for your perusal. Once you sign this and return it to us, we can create a Letter of Claim.

What is a Letter of Claim?

A Letter of Claim is a document which summarises the details of the accident and delivers these details to the person/company (or their insurance company) who you believe to be at fault. It will outline what happened, how it affected you, and notify the third party of your intent to bring a compensation claim.

After this letter is sent, the third party has a short timeframe to acknowledge the claim. There is a protocol in Northern Ireland that suggests they are then allowed a few months to fully investigate the matter. They should later indicate whether they accept liability or deny liability.

Do you Have to go to Court for Personal Injury Claims in Belfast?

While taking your case to court is an excellent way to establish the other party’s fault, it is not the only way to receive compensation.

Legal fees are higher if a case proceeds to Court. At Lacey Solicitors Belfast, we believe that bringing a case to court should be the last resort. We will, throughout all stages of your case try to discuss the matter with our opposition to try and settle the case without going to court.

Our belief is that settling a case before court, saves time, money and stress for all parties.

We only bring cases to court for two reasons;

Liability for the accident is in dispute.
We cannot reach an agreement with the otherside on a settlement figure

Finding a Personal Injury Lawyer Near You

At Lacey Solicitors, we pride ourselves in our ability to provide assistance to clients across all of Northern Ireland. With the latest technologies you no longer need to have a solicitor on your doorstep and we can arrange an appointment at a location suitable to you. In some circumstances our solicitors can even come directly to you. We recommend using injury lawyers for injury claims. Our experience in Insurance and Injury Law allows us to make a claim on your behalf against the at fault insurance company. Whether you are in Enniskillen or Lisburn, the Lacey Solicitors team are here to help.

Enquire Now to Begin Your Personal Injury Claim with Lacey Solicitors.

Stepping Out Safely: How to Be a Safe Pedestrian This Winter in Northern Ireland and Ireland

Posted on 15 November 20245 December 2024 by Lacey Solicitors

Winter walking brings its own set of challenges, with darker mornings, icy roads, and reduced visibility. Staying safe as a pedestrian is especially crucial during this time of year. According to the RSA, 2023 saw 38 pedestrian fatalities on Irish roads, the highest number in 15 years. To help you stay safe this winter, Lacey Solicitors have compiled a practical guide tailored for pedestrians across Northern Ireland and Ireland.

STOP, LOOK, LISTEN: Essential Road Safety

The Green Cross Code—STOP, LOOK, LISTEN—remains one of the simplest yet most effective ways to protect yourself when crossing the road. Here are some key do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

NEVER:

Cross roads at bends or blind spots.
Cross between parked cars.
Cross while using your phone or when distracted.

ALWAYS:

Use pedestrian crossings such as zebra crossings, traffic lights, or traffic islands.
Stick to footpaths whenever possible.
If no footpath is available, walk on the right-hand side of the road, facing oncoming traffic, and stay as far off the road as possible.
Remove headphones and listen carefully for oncoming vehicles before crossing. Even if you don’t see a vehicle, one could be approaching.

Winter Awareness: Staying Visible and Alert

Winter months bring poor weather and limited daylight, which can make pedestrians harder to spot. Follow these tips to ensure visibility:

Stick to well-lit, public roads with clear footpaths during early mornings or evenings.
Wear fluorescent, reflective clothing to make yourself easily identifiable. Reflective gear is essential for children and pets, ensuring they can be seen from a distance.

Additional Tips:

Be extra cautious during fog, rain, or icy conditions, as drivers may have reduced stopping times.
Teach children the importance of wearing bright clothing and practicing road safety.

Alcohol Awareness During Festive Celebrations

With the festive season fast approaching, it’s vital to remember how alcohol impacts decision-making as a pedestrian.

Avoid walking home after drinking—use public transport, arrange a taxi, or rely on a designated driver.
Stay aware of your surroundings and look out for others who may be distracted or impaired.

Step into Safety: Protecting Children

Pedestrian accidents peak among children aged 12, often when they start traveling independently. Over half of these accidents occur during after-school hours. As parents and guardians, teaching children about pedestrian safety can have a lasting impact.

Practical Steps for Parents:

Help children map out the safest routes to school or frequently visited places.
Emphasize the importance of using crossings and being cautious around busy roads.
Encourage responsible pedestrian habits, which pave the way for safer future drivers.

Stay Safe, Stay Healthy

Walking during the winter months is a fantastic way to maintain physical and mental well-being. However, safety should always come first. By staying alert, visible, and mindful of the rules, you can enjoy the benefits of walking while minimizing risks.

For more expert advice on personal safety and legal support in Northern Ireland and Ireland, get in touch with Lacey Solicitors. We’re here to help.

Stay safe, and step into the winter season with confidence.

Lacey Solicitors Guide to Medical Negligence Claims in Northern Ireland

Posted on 1 November 20245 March 2025 by Lacey Solicitors

Medical Negligence: Understanding Your Rights and Seeking Justice

Both the NHS and the private healthcare sector are filled with exceptionally talented, caring professionals who dedicate their lives to providing us with invaluable care during our most vulnerable moments. These healthcare workers are often under intense pressure, balancing high caseloads and dealing with complex medical situations. Their commitment to patient care is unparalleled, and in many cases, they deliver outstanding results.

However, despite their best efforts, medical negligence can still occur. Often, factors outside an individual healthcare worker’s control, such as staffing shortages, limited funding, or overwhelming patient demand, can contribute to situations where medical care falls below the expected standard. When these unfortunate incidents happen, patients deserve to know their rights and have access to justice.

At Lacey Solicitors, we understand the challenges you may face after suffering due to medical negligence. Our experienced team is here to help guide you through the legal process and secure the compensation you deserve.

What Causes Medical Negligence?

Medical negligence can arise from various factors, some of which are beyond the control of healthcare professionals themselves. While healthcare workers are highly skilled and dedicated, external pressures and system failures can contribute to mistakes or substandard care. Here are some of the most common factors that can lead to medical negligence:

Communication Breakdown: Poor communication between healthcare teams, or between doctors and patients, can lead to misunderstandings, misdiagnosis, or incorrect treatment plans. Miscommunication can also delay critical care and compromise patient safety.
Inadequate Staffing: Understaffed hospitals and clinics, especially during peak times, can result in medical professionals being overwhelmed, leading to mistakes or missed details. With staff stretched thin, patient care may not be given the attention it requires.
Insufficient Funding: The financial constraints faced by the NHS and some private healthcare providers can result in a lack of resources, outdated equipment, and limited access to necessary treatments or specialists. These constraints can significantly impact the level of care provided.
Technical Failures: Medical technology plays a critical role in diagnosis and treatment, but equipment failures or technical malfunctions can lead to dangerous consequences. A failure in medical equipment, such as MRI machines, ventilators, or monitoring systems, can lead to misdiagnoses or insufficient care.
Inadequate Policies and Procedures: In some cases, hospitals or healthcare facilities may not have effective policies or protocols in place to ensure patient safety. This can lead to lapses in care, overlooked risks, or failure to follow best practice guidelines.
Healthcare Worker Incompetency: While the vast majority of healthcare professionals are highly skilled, errors can happen when a healthcare worker lacks the necessary competence, training, or experience to perform certain tasks. This can result in serious mistakes, such as surgical errors or incorrect diagnoses.
Inadequate Training: Medical professionals are required to keep their skills up to date, but in some cases, staff may not have received adequate training on the latest techniques, equipment, or protocols. This can lead to substandard care or preventable errors.

Steps to Take If You’ve Suffered Medical Negligence

If you believe you have been a victim of medical negligence, it’s important to take the following steps to protect your rights and pursue a claim for compensation:

1. Speak to Your Healthcare Provider

If you have suffered harm due to medical negligence, the first step is often to speak to the healthcare provider or institution involved. A formal complaint about the care you received can help document the issue and may prompt an investigation. In many cases, a complaint may lead to an admission of liability or a recognition that a mistake was made, which is essential for progressing a legal claim. An admission of liability can serve as a critical piece of evidence if you decide to pursue compensation.

2. Seek Legal Advice

It’s crucial to seek legal advice from a solicitor who specialises in medical negligence cases. A legal expert can guide you through the often-complex process of making a claim. It’s important to act promptly, as in Northern Ireland there is typically a three-year limitation period within which a claim must be made, starting from the date of the incident or when the injury was discovered. However, it’s always worth seeking advice, even if the incident occurred some time ago.

When you consult a solicitor, it’s helpful to create a personal timeline of events. Document the details of what happened, how it has impacted your life, and the ongoing effects on your well-being. This timeline can provide crucial information to your legal team.

3. Gather Medical Records and Evidence

One of the most important steps in pursuing a medical negligence claim is collecting all relevant medical records and evidence. Your solicitor will request copies of your records, which could include:

Letters from your GP or specialists about your condition
Records of your stay in the hospital
Reports detailing the incident or treatment failure
Documentation of any subsequent treatments, appointments, or consultations

These records will form the basis of your claim and help your solicitor assess the viability of the case.

4. Obtain a Preliminary Opinion on Liability

Your solicitor will work with a medical expert in the relevant field to get a preliminary opinion on the liability of the healthcare provider. This expert will review your case and assess the standard of care you received, determining whether the healthcare professional breached their duty of care and the likely consequences of that breach.

This expert opinion will be crucial for guiding the next steps in your legal journey. It provides a clear view of whether the claim has merit and the likelihood of success.

Lacey Solicitors: Experienced Clinical Negligence Solicitors

Selecting a solicitor with a strong background in medical negligence claims can significantly streamline the process and enhance your chances of securing the compensation you deserve. Medical negligence cases often involve complex legal and medical issues, which require a solicitor who has both the legal expertise and a deep understanding of healthcare practices.

Ruaidhri Austin at Lacey Solicitors is dedicated to handling all medical negligence claims within our office and has extensive experience in this challenging area of law. Ruaidhri’s caseload includes a number of high-profile and notable medical negligence cases, demonstrating his commitment to securing justice for his clients.

He secured compensation for patients sexually assaulted by two doctors at Naas General Hospital, Kildare, and appeared on the RTÉ Investigates – Abuse of Trust documentary on RTÉ One.
He secured compensation for the the family of a Geoffrey Foot who tragically died following treatment at Royal Victoria Hospital, Belfast.
He also acted on behalf of the family of a lady who died after an ‘unnecessary’ surgery that was later concealed by the hospital

Ruaidhri’s experience in these high-profile cases ensures that your medical negligence claim will be handled with the utmost professionalism and care, giving you the best possible chance of success.

In Conclusion: Pursuing Justice for Medical Negligence

Medical negligence claims are complex and often require significant time and resources. The process can be emotionally and financially draining for victims, but it’s important to remember that justice is possible.

If you’ve suffered harm due to medical negligence, it’s essential to speak with an experienced medical negligence solicitor. At Lacey Solicitors Belfast, we’ve helped countless clients navigate the legal process and successfully secure compensation in high-profile medical negligence cases. We are here to support you every step of the way, ensuring that you receive the compensation you deserve for your pain, suffering, and loss.

Contact Lacey Solicitors today using our online form to discuss your case with one of our expert solicitors and take the first step towards securing justice.

How to Make a Car Accident Claim in Northern Ireland?

Posted on 29 October 202420 January 2025 by Lacey Solicitors

A step-by-step guide to bringing a claim for compensation after a car accident for those living in NI.

Car accidents are neither rare nor easy to deal with. Every year in Northern Ireland the Police Service reports around 5,000 collisions, with casualties in 2023 alone reaching 7,985 people[i]. These high numbers reflect an ongoing problem with road safety – a problem which could impact you if you have a road traffic accident.

RTAs leave you in physical and emotional pain. Understanding the steps you can take to make a car accident claim for compensation can help you recover some of the losses you experienced due to your accident. Whether you were injured in a collision in Newry, had a fender bender in Lisburn, or became injured as a pedestrian in Armagh, let Lacey Solicitors firm guide you through the trauma of claiming compensation after your accident.

What is a Car Accident Claim?

If you become injured in a car accident and it was not your fault, then you could claim compensation against the at-fault party. Speeding, lack of care, dangerous driving, and driving while under the influence of alcohol are all common causes of car accidents. No matter the cause, though, car accidents are costly both in terms of health and recovery.

How to Make a Claim for Compensation After a Car Accident?

There are simple steps to making a claim for compensation after your accident. Follow the advice outlined below for the best chance at receiving the maximum possible compensation for your injuries.

At the Time of the Accident

Immediately after the accident has happened, follow these steps:

Make yourself safe
Get medical attention
Speak to the police
Gather witness statements and driver contact details
Take photos

This will give you the best evidence to support your claim.

Following the Accident

After your accident has occurred, make sure that you get in touch with a qualified car accident solicitors near you. Lacey Solicitors are Belfast based and able to guide you safely through the legal quagmire of motor accident compensation claims.

Once you have a solicitor in place, proceed with the following:

Act quickly – you have three years to make your claim
Establish who was at fault and gather evidence with your solicitor
Submit to a medical examination and carefully document your injuries and recovery time
Your solicitor will bring your claim on your behalf

When your solicitor makes your car accident compensation claim, they will try for three different areas of expense. Your compensation will be based upon the lost income you may have had, the medical expenses you may have incurred, and the pain and suffering the accident caused you.

The Settlement Process

Finally, your solicitor will negotiate a settlement from the insurance company on your behalf. All you must do is trust them to perform. If your claim needs to go to court then your car accident solicitor in NI will help you with the process. Most claims are settled outside of the courtroom.

Trusted Car Accident Solicitors in Northern Ireland

Lacey Solicitors are a trusted law firm operating across Northern Ireland. Contact us today to discuss the details of your car accident so that we may begin working on your compensation claim together.

What You Should Know About NI Work Accident Claims

Posted on 29 October 20245 December 2024 by Lacey Solicitors

NI work accidents occur when your employer fails to make your workplace a safe working environment. Work accidents can have serious repercussions, leaving you unable to work, losing income and in pain.

Making a claim for compensation will help you recover your losses after a trip, fall, fall from height, manual handling accident, or any other form of accident at work. Lacey Solicitors are an experienced team able to provide you with representation to guide you through your work accident claim.

Here is what you need to know about NI work accident compensation claims before you begin.

Eligibility: Are You Eligible for a Work Accident Claim?

Before you can bring a claim for compensation after an accident at work, you must meet the conditions which make you eligible. Firstly, you must make the claim within three years of the date of the workplace accident. Next, you must prove that your accident happened due to a third party’s negligence.

What Compensation Can You Get for a Work Accident in Belfast?

Medical expenses, any lost income, and the price allocated to your pain and suffering are all considered when you make a claim for compensation after an accident at work. The level of compensation awarded to you in respect to your pain and suffering varies but is designed to measure the hardships you have endured thanks to your NI/Belfast accident.

What is the Process for Making a Claim for Work Accidents in NI?

From Antrim to Fermanagh the process for making a claim for compensation after a workplace accident in NI is the same. The process for making a claim is as follows:

Make yourself safe
Seek medical attention
Report your accident, including using an accident book to record it within the workplace.
Contact a work accident claims solicitor near you
The solicitor will investigate further
You will go through a medical assessment to review your ongoing needs.
You will enter into negotiations with the third party – this part is why you need that solicitor.
You may go to court, you may settle out of court
You will receive compensation for your claim if you succeed

No Win, No Fee Work Accident Claims?

Unfortunately, no win, no fee agreements are prohibited within Northern Ireland. While no win, no fee compensation claims might be the norm in England and Wales, they do not apply in Northern Ireland.

If you are successful in your claim, then your court or solicitor costs will be covered by the other party involved. This means it is always worthwhile making a claim for compensation after an accident at work. Consult a solicitor to discuss whether or not it is worthwhile making a claim.

Experienced Work Accident Claim Solicitors Near You

Do you live in Belfast? Are you a resident in Northern Ireland? Whether you live in Armagh or Derry you can find the help you need through Lacey Solicitors. We can give you expert guidance and insider knowledge on how to proceed after an accident at work. If you have been injured by a work vehicle, have mishandled hazardous substances due to lack of training, or are injured using poorly maintained equipment, you may be eligible to make a claim. Contact Lacey Solicitors to discuss your options.

Work Accident Claims in NI: The Basics

Posted on 29 October 20245 December 2024 by Lacey Solicitors

Have you had an accident while you were at work? Did it seriously impact your health or your ability to earn? Has an industrial accident changed your life? Making a work accident claim could help you secure the financial resources you need during your recovery.

Having an accident in the workplace can leave you with health concerns that you do not know how to deal with. If you feel you do not know where to turn in the event of a workplace accident, then seeking legal advice could be your best course of action.

Forewarned is forearmed. If you understand the process of making a work accident claim in Northern Ireland, then you are better equipped if it happens to you.

What is A Work Accident Claim?

When you are injured in the workplace through negligence or a breach in the duty of care your employer has towards you, then you may make a claim for compensation for your injuries. Your employer has a statutory duty towards you while you are in the workplace. This duty, broadly speaking, is to protect you from any harm the tasks they hire you to complete might cause.

Can You Make a Workplace Accident Claim?

To make a claim for compensation after an accident at work in NI, you must make the claim within three years of the date of your accident taking place. If you meet this criteria, then you must also prove that your employer broke their statutory duty towards you. This breach of their duty to care for you while on their premises or conducting work-related activities must have resulted in an accident.

What is a Statutory Duty of Care?

The Statutory Duty of Care is part of your employer’s responsibilities towards you while you are working for them. Your employer has a duty to ensure your health and safety while you conduct work related activities. Your employer must take all possible reasonable actions to protect your safety. An example is making machinery safe, implementing risk assessments, and ensuring that you have the correct safety gear for the job.

Failing to protect you from harm while you are performing tasks on your employer’s behalf is a breach of this duty. If you make a claim for compensation after a work accident in Belfast or the surrounding areas then you must prove that your employer breached this duty.

Types of Workplace Accident

There are many different kinds of workplace accident. If you experience any of the following, then you should seek legal advice:

Slips, trips, and falls which could have been avoided
Falling from heights and injuring yourself, for example by falling from scaffolding.
Lack of protective equipment can cause injuries, disease, or worse.
Failure to implement appropriate safety measures, particularly in regard to machinery and safe operation.
Lack of training – those expected to operate heavy equipment without appropriate training cannot be blamed should something go wrong.
Old or ineffective equipment such as blunt tools
Contact with toxic or hazardous chemicals
Lifting and carrying incorrectly
Fleet or vehicular incidents

What To do if You are Injured at Work?

If you encounter an accident at work and you live in Northern Ireland, then there are steps you should take after your accident to legally protect your interests.

First, seek medical help and ensure your safety. Next, report the accident to the appropriate managers. Make sure you fill in an accident report form. Afterwards, begin the process of evidence gathering to back up your claim.

Finally, reach out to Lacey Solicitors. Our law firm can offer expert legal advice which could help you achieve the maximum compensation amount.

Contact Lacey Solicitors, Belfast.

Insurers are likely to welcome Discount Rate changes

Posted on 26 September 20245 December 2024 by Lacey Solicitors

Insurers are likely to welcome the news that the Northern Ireland Personal Injury Discount Rate is to be set at +0.5%. The rate that it replaces had been set at -1.5%. In contrast the rate is still lower than the rate in the Irish State which stands at +1.5%.

The Government Actuary Department announced the rate following its report on the 24thSeptember 2024. The rate in Scotland has been raised from -0.75% to +0.5%.

The Discount Rate is used to determine lump sum damages awards in serious and catastrophic injury claims, where awards are made for future losses. The lump sum payments are intended to provide people with full and fair financial compensation for all expected losses and costs caused by their injuries.

Where part of a claim for future losses is settled as a cash amount, the lump sum is calculated allowing for the period over which losses and costs are expected to be met and the assumed investment return that the individual is expected to earn on the award over time. Factors taken into consideration include, the investment period, allowance for tax and investment expenses, damages inflation assumption and a notional investment portfolio.

The raise in the Discount Rate was expected, following a recent sharp rise, after a lengthy period of historically low interest rates.

How Much is My Personal Injury Claim Worth?

Posted on 18 September 20243 March 2025 by Lacey Solicitors

Thinking of making a claim for compensation for a personal injury in Northern Ireland? How much is your personal injury claim worth and how much compensation should you receive?

If you’ve been injured in an accident that wasn’t your fault in Northern Ireland, you may be entitled to compensation. The amount of compensation you can claim depends on the specifics of your case, including the type of injury and the impact it has had on your life. Whether you’ve suffered an injury in a road traffic accident, at work, or elsewhere, it’s important to understand how much compensation you might be entitled to.

What is My Personal Injury Claim Worth?

The value of a personal injury claim is influenced by multiple factors. While there’s no set amount, experienced solicitors can give you an estimate based on your situation.

Factors which impact the worth of a personal injury claim include:

A person’s age and pre-accident health
The type and severity of injury sustained
Any long-term prognosis
The medical care provided to date and any future medical expenses
The impact on a person’s life and career
Whether your own actions contributed to any of the injuries sustained

More severe injuries, such as catastrophic injury claims like quadriplegia, can attract substantial compensation, with awards from the courts reaching up to £870,000.

Personal Injury Compensation Breakdown in Northern Ireland

Here’s a closer look at compensation estimates for various types of injuries in Northern Ireland:

Severe Brain Injury Claims
Compensation for severe brain injuries typically ranges from £500,000 to £850,000.
Road Traffic Accident Claims
- Minor injuries like whiplash can yield £5,000 if recovery occurs within six months.
- For more prolonged recovery (up to 24 months), compensation can be as much as £22,500.
  Road traffic accidents can also result in lost earnings and vehicle repairs, all of which are compensable under special damages.
Industrial Disease Claims
- Ireland’s rich industrial heritage particularly in relation to its shipbuilding has meant that asbestos claims are particularly prevalent in this jurisdiction in comparison to other European countries
- Pleural plaques (common in asbestos exposure cases) can lead to compensation of up to £22,000.
- More severe cases, such as Asbestosis, can attract pay-outs of up to £125,000.

What Are Special Damages?

In addition to compensation for pain and suffering, you may also claim for financial losses directly resulting from your injury. These are called special damages and can cover:

Damaged property or items
Loss of earnings (past and future)
Car repairs or hire
Medical care
Travel expenses
Rehabilitation and therapy costs
Specialist equipment (e.g., prosthetics, hearing aids)

Special damages are essential for covering out-of-pocket expenses incurred because of the accident. If, for example, you are injured in a car accident, you could claim for vehicle repairs, hire car costs, lost income, and medical treatment expenses.

Compensation for a Minor Back Injury in Northern Ireland

For a minor back injury where full recovery occurs within 6 to 24 months, the typical compensation amount is up to £22,500. If the injury requires longer recovery or causes lasting effects, the compensation amount may increase.

Whiplash Compensation in Northern Ireland

Whiplash injuries to the neck are fairly common injuries in road traffic accidents, especially rear-end collisions. Compensation for whiplash varies:

For a full recovery within 6-12 months, compensation can range up to £7,500.

Average Personal Injury Compensation in Northern Ireland

Because personal injuries vary greatly, it’s difficult to pinpoint an average pay-out. The compensation you receive will depend on the specifics of your case, including the severity of the injury and its impact on your life.

Get Expert Legal Help for Your Personal Injury Claim

If you’ve been injured and need help navigating your personal injury claim, Lacey Solicitors is here to assist you. Our legal team specialises in personal injury and liability claims, and we’ll work to secure the compensation you deserve. Contact us today using our online form for a consultation on your case and let us guide you through the legal process.