What evidence do I need to bring a successful accident at work claim?
If you are unfortunate enough to be involved in an accident at work, you may be able to make a claim for compensation, if you can show that the accident was not your fault.
In certain circumstances, even if you contributed to your own accident at work, you may still be able to make a claim for compensation if you can show your employer was the main cause of your injury.
What evidence do you need to gather for a work accident claim?
When bringing an accident at work claim, your personal injury solicitors will need to gather the relevant evidence from your accident such as where and how the accident happened and the type of personal injuries you have suffered. This information should be available in the following ways:
1) Record the incident in the Accident book
The accident should be recorded in the accident book which your employer is required to keep at work. It is important to report the accident to your employer as soon after the accident as possible. If your workplace does not have an accident book, you should write down the details of your accident, injuries and the details of any co-workers who saw the accident, send them to your employer and keep a copy for your own records. This means your employer and their insurers cannot dispute the occurrence of the accident, something which unfortunately can happen.
It is very important that you check the details of your accident report to make sure your accident is recorded correctly before you sign it.
2) Keep a note of medical treatment for evidence
If you are taken to hospital or visit your GP after the accident, make sure that they accurately record how the accident happened. In doing this, you will have a clear record of your visit on your medical records.
3) Photographs of the incident/injuries
If it is possible at the time of the accident, you should take photos of the accident location. Evidence of the accident location and circumstances will be most compelling and it will ensure a dishonest employer will not try to change an accident location, in an attempt to hinder any claim you might make.
4) Record your Financial losses
Work accident claims do not just cover injuries sustained from the accident. You can also claim for financial losses incurred such as loss of earnings, travel expenses, prescription costs, and care and assistance provided by family members or friends. It is important to keep records of all expenditure and to keep all receipts relating to these financial losses. This will be used as evidence in your claim for financial losses.
What is the time limit for making an accident at work claim?
The time limit for making a claim following an accident at work is 3 years from the date of the injury. It is possible to delay making a claim for an accident at work until after you have left your employer. However, if you do this, it is very important that the accident was reported as soon as possible after it happened and that the accident book was completed.
Contact our team to help with your case
Our London based team of personal injury solicitors specialise in workplace personal injury cases, who will be proud to fight on your behalf and are dedicated to ensuring you receive the best possible result for your claim as quickly as possible. To speak with one of our team call 0808 271 9413 or request one of our team to call you back.