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Friday 2 September 2011

Claiming Compensation for Accident At Work


Getting involved in any kind of accident can be traumatic. But, accidents that occur at the workplace can be particularly upsetting because work tends to play a central role in most people's lives. A person's job is fundamental to his identity and this is the reason meeting with an accident at work can be traumatic as well as upsetting and this is especially true if the accident occurred due to the negligence of the employer.

People work for a decent income, but at the same time they have a right to expect their employers to provide them with a risk free work environment. If the employer has failed, the injured worker can seek compensation. While it is true that no amount of money can take away your pain, suffering and distress, making a work injury claim can at least help you take the first step towards putting your life back on track.

Starting A Work Injury Claim

If you have been hurt in an accident at work, you may be in a strong position to make a work injury claim. But, it is also important that you are able to establish that your employer was at fault or there was a breach of health and safety regulations. In any case, it is important to gather evidences to support your claim. Evidences can include:

  • Witness statements 
  • Employer's logs 
  • Similar cases of work accidents that occurred in the past 
  • Accident book 
  • Ambulance attendance record 
  • Medical report

Types of Workplace Accidents

You may be entitled to claim compensation for any type of accident that occurred in the workplace. Even if it was a slips and trips accident, you may be entitled to recover compensation if you have sustained injuries. Common types of work accidents that can lead to making work injury claims include construction site accidents, warehouse accidents, factory accidents, falls from heights, road accidents if your job involves driving, machinery accidents, faulty equipment accidents, etc.

Consequences of Making A Claim

There is one reason why people hesitate to make work injury claims and that is the fear of losing their jobs. Most people worry that if they make a work injury claim against the employer, they may get fired. Is this true? No, it is not because it is illegal for any employer to sack an employee for putting up a work injury claim.