Accident at work? Here’s what you need to know
When it comes to accidents at work, it can often be a daunting process when looking to pursue a claim especially if you are unsure of how to go about it. Here we have summarised some key facts to consider when reporting an accident at work or claiming compensation for a workplace injury.
Key Points
Employers have a duty of care
Under the 1974 Health and Safety at Work Act, employers have a duty of care to take all measures possible to ensure the health, safety and wellbeing of their employees. This often involves providing adequate health and safety training, advising employees on health and safety issues and carrying out risk assessments to name a few.
Common types of work injuries
Common types of work injuries that you can claim compensation for include slips and trips, dangerous practices, defective equipment, insufficient training, assault at work, negligence of co-workers and more. With any claim, the amount of compensation will vary depending on the accident reported.
Employers must record all accidents at work
Employers must keep track of all accidents at work in line with RIDDOR regulations. RIDDOR stands for the Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations which governs who reports accidents at work and how they’re reported. Logging all accident reports also allows for understanding how the health and safety strategy in the workplace can be improved.
You can’t be sacked for making a claim
A main factor for employees hesitating to make a claim is due to the thought that their job might be under threat. This is not the case. All employees hold the right to claim compensation for an accident at work under the 1996 Employment Rights Act and employers cannot dismiss an employee for making a claim against them.
If you have suffered from a workplace accident and looking to make a claim, it’s important to note that the sooner you make this claim the better as there’s a strict time limit of three years for making a claim.
If you have had an accident and would like our assistance, please contact our specialist court team on 0141 887 5271 (Paisley) or 0141 886 5678 (Renfrew)
Distracted Drivers and the Dangers
The law regarding mobile phone usage at the wheel has recently changed, involving a hefty fine and penalty points for those caught. Recent study results have shown that road users are frightened by the idea of colliding with a distracted driver more than having their car stolen or driving in bad weather. If you’re involved in a road accident caused by a distracted driver, it’s important that you know the correct procedure to take.
The new penalties imposed on drivers include a £200 fine and 6 points. This is an increase of £100. The aim is to discourage drivers using their phone at the wheel. Additionally, those who have been driving for less than 2 years will have their license invalidated requiring a re-sit of both their theory and practical exams. But what about you? How can you claim compensation for a road accident that wasn’t your fault?
Essential Information
There can be a lot of confusion and shock following a car accident, but there is some information you should collate in order to claim successfully:
- Share information with the other party including names, contact details, insurance details, registration numbers and make and model of vehicles.
- Take photographs of the incident as a visual aid towards your claim.
- Take witness information and refrain from discussing the incident, this will help you with your claim if things go wrong.
- Report incident to the police in the case of future disagreements with other party.
- Inform your insurance company immediately
By following this advice it will assist your solicitor in making a successful claim.
If you’ve had a road traffic accident and need some advice, guidance or assistance, please get in touch on 0141 887 5271 (Paisley) or 0141 886 5678 (Renfrew).