Accidents in the Workplace: Farming and Agriculture

The farming and agriculture industry in Northern Ireland and the UK has a disproportionately high number of accidents and fatalities when compared to other industries.

Farming and agricultural workers represent approximately 1% of the workforce in Northern Ireland. Nevertheless, this industry has the highest workplace fatality rate of all others. 

Farmers, like any worker, should be properly compensated for their injuries if they were involved in an incident that was not their fault. Seeking personal injury compensation after an animal handling incident, an injury caused by farm equipment, or an injury caused by driving a farm vehicle, is how an employee might look to recover both financially and physically from an incident.  

Serious Statistics Show NI Farm Workers are at Risk of Workplace Injuries

Farming and agriculture is a dangerous industry which has a long history of high fatality rates in Northern Ireland. During the period 2023-2024 there were 8 accidents in this sector which resulted in a workplace death. Of the total of 17 workplace deaths during that same period, farming and agricultural incidents represent 47% of all workplace fatalities.

Speaking at the 12th annual Farm Safety Week in July 2024, Robert Kidd, Chief Executive of the Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland said that the agriculture industry had “once again proved to have the poorest safety record of any industry in Northern Ireland.”

Mr Kidd added that thousands of farmers suffered every day due to serious injuries, long term health complaints, and poor mental health.

Common Types of Farming Accidents

There are common types of personal injury which farm workers experience. Falling from height is a common accident on a farm. Stacking hay bales and operating heavy machinery can result in trapped body parts. Repetitive strain injuries (RSI) are not uncommon.

Amputations, loss of limbs, animal handling incidents, and machinery operating are all common causes of agricultural accidents. Slips, trips, and falls are all common on the farm as are catastrophic injuries which can result in death.

Farming and Agricultural Work Accidents Go Beyond Physical Injuries

Here at Lacey Solicitors firm we understand the devastation that a farming injury can have on families. Physical injuries caused by faulty machinery or heavy farming equipment are incredibly difficult to deal with. However, farm trips, slips, falls, or other accidents also can have a lasting impact which goes beyond physical health.

Farmers who have long term health problems after an injury can lose income due to their limited mobility. This can have a knock-on effect on their mental health, leaving them unable to fully provide for their families which leads to financial instability. Seeking compensation for your personal injury at work on the farm could ensure you and your family are protected, should the worst happen.

Bring a Claim for Compensation to Cover the Cost of Farming Injuries

Have you been injured due to an accident on a farm? Do you work in the agriculture sector and need a trusted source to turn to for advice regarding how to bring a claim for compensation to cover the cost of your injuries after an accident?

Lacey Solicitors Belfast are here to help. Contact us today to discuss your options in bringing a compensation claim after your workplace accident.

 

 

 

 

 

 

PSNI Releases 2023-2024 Road Traffic Accident Statistics: A review of Injuries and Fatalities in Northern Ireland

The provisional road traffic collision figures for 2023-2024 have been released, revealing a concerning 7,833 recorded injuries resulting from 4,977 road traffic accidents. Road Traffic Accidents (RTAs) continue to account for the majority of personal injuries reported annually in Northern Ireland.

 

Road Traffic Statistics in Northern Ireland 2023-24

 

Provisional figures for road traffic collisions in Northern Ireland for 2023-2024 have been released, offering important insights into the latest trends surrounding road traffic accidents.  The Police Service for Northern Ireland (PSNI) has broken down the data by age, gender, and month, revealing key patterns in fatalities.

During this period, 39 drivers tragically lost their lives in fatal road traffic accidents, while 8 pedestrians were killed, with a higher risk for males aged 25-64. In a surprising statistic, only one pedal cyclist died from injuries in a road traffic accident. A total of 68 people lost their lives on Northern Ireland’s roads in 2024, a slight decrease from 71 in the previous year.

The report highlights a concerning increase in drink driving which is further supported by the BBC article which confirmed that an alarming 132 motorists were arrested for drunk driving between December 1st and 15th, 2024. 

For those injured in a road traffic accident, many seek to pursue a personal injury claim if they were not at fault. Whether involving passengers, pedestrians, or no-fault drivers, road traffic accidents are common, and many individuals turn to personal injury solicitors to guide them through the process of compensation claims and protect their financial interests.

 

Can You Make a Personal Injury Claim for Car Accidents in the UK and Northern Ireland?

 

At Lacey Solicitors, our advice to anyone involved in a collision is to speak with a solicitor who specialises in road traffic accidents. A specialist solicitor can offer valuable assistance, ensuring peace of mind when dealing with any damage caused, injuries suffered, or financial losses incurred. They will provide expert guidance throughout the claims process, helping you navigate complex legal procedures and maximize your compensation entitlement.

After a road traffic accident in Northern Ireland, you can make a compensation claim against the at-fault driver and their insurance company. In most cases, the at-fault party will cover any legal costs, allowing you to pursue your claim with minimal financial burden.

 

Can I claim Personal Injury even if the Accident was My Fault?

 

Even if you are largely at fault for a road traffic accident in the UK or Northern Ireland, you may still be able to make a personal injury claim under the principle of “contributory negligence.” This legal concept allows you to seek a percentage of damages from the other party if they share some of the responsibility for the accident.

For example, if you were making a right-hand turn and failed to check your mirrors, not noticing a vehicle overtaking you at the time, it could be argued that your actions contributed to the collision. However, it may also be argued that the other driver overtook you when it was unsafe to do so, which could share some of the liability.

Contributory negligence can reduce the amount of compensation you are entitled to, depending on the degree of fault attributed to each party. It’s important to consult with a specialist road traffic accident solicitor to evaluate your case, as they can help you navigate the complexities of contributory negligence and ensure that your rights are protected.

 

How much Compensation can you get for a Personal Injury after a Car Accident?

 

The amount of compensation you could receive for personal injury after a road traffic accident (RTA) can vary, and it’s impossible to accurately predict without a detailed assessment. Even advanced road traffic accident compensation calculators can only provide rough estimates, as each case is unique and depends on various factors such as the severity of the injury, the impact on your daily life and any medical treatment.

To get a clearer idea of your potential award, it’s essential to consult with a specialist personal injury solicitor. An experienced road traffic accident solicitor will offer valuable insights into the strengths of your compensation claim and guide you through the process, increasing your chances of success.

If you’ve been involved in a car accident, you deserve the best possible representation. Contact Lacey Solicitors Belfast using our online form to discuss your case and ensure you receive the compensation you’re entitled to.