Injury at Work – Can I Claim Compensation and What Are My Rights?

Suffering an injury at work can turn your life upside down physically, financially, and emotionally. Whether it’s a fall, lifting injury, faulty equipment, or long-term workplace exposure, many employees don’t realise they may have a legal right to claim compensation.

At Aston Knight Solicitors, we specialise in helping clients win cases other firms reject, securing compensation while protecting your job and financial stability.

This guide explains when you can claim, what your employer should have done, and how to maximise your compensation.

What Counts as an Injury at Work?

An injury at work includes any physical or psychological harm suffered because of your job, including:

• Slips, trips, and falls
• Manual handling injuries (e.g. back injuries)
• Accidents involving machinery or equipment
• Falls from height
• Workplace assaults
• Exposure to harmful substances
• Repetitive strain injuries or industrial diseases

Even if the injury develops over time, you may still have a valid claim.

As highlighted by Aston Knight’s own guidance, workplace injuries happen across all industries – from offices to construction sites – despite strict safety laws.

When Can You Make a Claim?

To succeed in an injury at work claim, you usually need to prove:

1. Your employer owed you a duty of care
2. That duty was breached (e.g. unsafe system, lack of training)
3. The breach caused your injury

Employers are legally required to:

• Provide a safe working environment
• Carry out proper risk assessments
• Ensure staff are trained and competent
• Provide safe equipment and PPE

If they fail in any of these duties, they may be liable.

Common Causes of Workplace Injury Claims

Many successful claims arise from:

• Lack of training or supervision
• Unsafe lifting practices
• Poorly maintained equipment
• Failure to provide protective equipment
• Ignoring known hazards
• Unsafe systems of work

Even if your employer denies responsibility, that doesn’t mean you don’t have a case. Many claims succeed despite initial denial.

What Should You Do After an Injury at Work?

Taking the right steps early can significantly strengthen your claim:

1. Seek medical attention immediately

Your health comes first and medical records are crucial evidence.

2. Report the accident
Ensure it is recorded in the accident book or confirm it in writing.

3. Gather evidence

Take photos, keep records, and note witnesses.

4. Avoid signing inaccurate reports
Employers sometimes record events incorrectly so always check before signing.

5. Speak to a specialist solicitor early
Early legal advice can protect your position and maximise compensation.

Can You Claim If the Accident Was Partly Your Fault?

Yes, you may still be able to claim.

Many people wrongly assume they cannot claim if they were partly responsible. If your employer’s system of work was unsafe, they may still be liable.

Will Claiming Affect Your Job?

This is one of the biggest concerns and one of the biggest myths.

• You cannot legally be dismissed for making a genuine claim
• Claims are made against the employer’s insurance, not them personally
• Many clients continue working for the same employer after claiming

Employment law protects workers from being treated unfairly for pursuing a claim.

What Can You Claim Compensation For?

Compensation is not just for the injury itself. It can include:

• Pain and suffering
• Lost earnings (past and future)
• Medical treatment and rehabilitation
• Travel expenses
• Care and assistance
• Future financial losses

In serious cases, compensation can be substantial particularly where long-term impact is involved.

The Aston Knight Difference

At Aston Knight Solicitors, we take a different approach:

• We take on complex and denied cases others reject
• We prepare cases as if they are going to trial
• We focus on maximising compensation, not quick settlements
• We provide clear, honest advice with no pressure tactics

Our track record shows that challenging cases can still succeed with the right strategy.

Injury at Work FAQs

Can I claim compensation for an injury at work?

Yes, if your injury was caused by your employer’s negligence or a breach of health and safety law.

How long do I have to make a claim?

You typically have 3 years from the date of the accident or from when you became aware of your injury.

Can I claim if I no longer work for the employer?

Yes. Claims are made against the employer’s insurer at the time of the accident not your current employer.

What if my employer says the accident was my fault?

This is common. Employers often deny liability, but many claims still succeed with proper evidence and legal representation.

Will I lose my job if I claim?

No. It is unlawful for an employer to dismiss you simply for making a claim.

Do I need a solicitor to make a claim?

Technically no, but in practice, injury claims involve complex legal and evidential issues. Without a specialist solicitor, claims are often undervalued or rejected.

How much compensation will I receive?

Every case is different. Compensation depends on:

• The severity of your injury
• Financial losses
• Long-term impact

Serious injuries can result in significant settlements, particularly where future losses are involved.

What if the accident wasn’t reported?

You can still claim, but it’s important to document the incident as soon as possible in writing.

Can I claim on a No Win No Fee basis?

Yes, most injury at work claims are handled on a No Win No Fee basis, meaning no upfront legal costs.

Speak to a Specialist Injury at Work Solicitor

If you’ve suffered an injury at work, getting the right advice early can make all the difference.

Aston Knight Solicitors offer:

• Free initial advice
• No Win No Fee representation

Specialist expertise in complex and denied claims

Contact us today to find out where you stand.