Injured at Work? Know Your Rights and How to Claim Compensation
Suffering an injury at work can be overwhelming. On top of the physical pain, many workers are left unsure about their legal rights and whether they can claim compensation.
In the UK, employers have a legal duty to keep their employees safe. If that duty is breached and someone gets hurt, the injured worker may be entitled to claim compensation. This article explains when employers can be held liable for workplace injuries and how a specialist solicitor can help you take the next steps.
What is employer liability?
Employer liability means your employer can be held legally responsible if you suffer an injury at work because they failed to keep you safe. They have a legal duty to take reasonable care of your health and safety. If they don’t, and you’re hurt as a result, they may be liable.
This responsibility is backed by the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974. Employers must take steps to reduce risks and prevent workplace injuries. They must also have insurance to cover claims made by injured workers.
What duties does my employer have?
Employers must:
- Provide and maintain safe equipment
- Offer proper training and supervision
- Supply necessary personal protective equipment (PPE)
- Keep the workplace free from hazards
Failing to meet these duties could lead to an accident at work. If this happens, you may be entitled to make a claim.
When can I make a claim for an accident at work?
You can make a claim for an accident at work if:
- Your employer breached their duty of care
- That breach caused your injury
- You suffered physical or financial harm
In most cases, you must claim within three years of the injury. If you’re unsure whether you’re eligible, our workplace injury solicitors can assess your case.
Can I still claim if I was partly at fault?
Yes. If the accident was partly your fault but your employer was also to blame, you may still claim. Your compensation might be reduced based on your share of responsibility, but you won’t automatically lose your right to claim.
What if a co-worker caused the accident?
If a colleague caused your injury while doing their job, your employer may still be responsible. This is called vicarious liability. You can still make a claim for an accident at work, and your compensation would usually be covered by your employer’s insurance.
What should I do after a workplace injury?
Take the following steps:
- Report the accident and make sure it’s recorded
- Get medical attention and keep records
- Gather evidence if you can (photos, witness details)
- Keep receipts for expenses
- Speak to a Workplace injury solicitor as soon as possible
These steps can help protect your health and strengthen your claim.
Do I need a solicitor to make a claim?
You don’t have to use a solicitor, but it’s highly recommended. An experienced Workplace injury solicitor can:
- Handle the legal process
- Gather strong evidence
- Deal with insurance companies
- Maximise your compensation
ASL Solicitors offer a no win, no fee service, meaning you won’t pay any legal fees unless your claim is successful. This gives you peace of mind and access to expert legal support without upfront costs.
What can I claim compensation for?
You may be able to claim for:
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of earnings
- Medical expenses
- Travel costs
- Care and support needs
Our experienced injury solicitors will help calculate the full value of your claim, including future losses.
How can ASL Solicitors help?
At ASL Solicitors, we have helped many injured workers get the compensation they deserve. Our trusted workplace injury solicitors serve clients in Rochdale, across Greater Manchester and beyond. Our team will:
- Explain your rights clearly
- Handle the claim from start to finish
- Negotiate with insurers
- Work on a no win, no fee basis
We are committed to offering practical legal support when you need it most.
If you’ve suffered a workplace injury, contact ASL Solicitors today. We’re here to help you get back on track.