A groundworks company was recently fined after a worker suffered crushing injuries when a one-tonne dumper truck overturned on a construction site. The worker was reversing the vehicle when it entered an unprotected excavation. Because he was not wearing a seatbelt, he was thrown from the truck and sustained a broken foot and ankle.
The Health and Safety Executive investigation found serious safety failings. In particular:
- workers had reportedly been instructed not to wear seatbelts while operating one-tonne dumper trucks
- open excavations on the site had not been adequately protected to prevent vehicles from entering them
The company pleaded guilty to breaching health and safety law and was fined £20,000, with a further £4,824 ordered in costs. For the injured worker, however, the consequences were far more personal: pain, disruption, time off work and the possibility of long-term impact on mobility and day-to-day life.
Can You Claim Compensation After an Accident at Work?
If you have been injured at work, you may be able to bring a personal injury claim where the accident was caused by your employer’s failure to provide a safe system of work, proper training, suitable equipment, adequate supervision or appropriate site safety measures.
Many people worry about making a claim against their employer. It is important to remember that employers are required to have insurance in place for workplace accident claims. A claim is usually dealt with by the employer’s insurers, not personally by a manager or colleague.
What Could a Claim Include?
- compensation for pain, suffering and loss of amenity
- loss of earnings if you have been unable to work
- private treatment, rehabilitation or physiotherapy where appropriate
- travel expenses, care and other out-of-pocket losses
Speak to Our Personal Injury Team
At Garratts Solicitors, our personal injury team helps injured workers understand their rights and pursue compensation where an accident was caused by unsafe working practices. If you have suffered an injury at work, contact us for friendly, practical advice about whether you may have a claim.
