Previously, we have answered questions regarding personal injury accidents at work and, separately, slips, trips and falls.
These questions and answers look at slips and trips at work.
Q1) Can I claim compensation if I fall or injure myself at work?
A- Yes. However, you will have to show that your employer (or fellow employees) was responsible for your fall. If the fall was completely your own fault, then you would not be able to claim. If it was partly your employer’s fault and partly your fault, then you may be able to claim compensation, but the amount you received would be reduced to reflect your portion of blame.
Q2) What are your employer’s responsibilities?
A- The general principle is that your employer has to ensure that you have a safe system of work and a safe environment to work in. Your employer is expected to take reasonable actions to ensure your safety and that includes preventing slips and trips.
Q3) What are the common types of trips, slips and falls cases at work?
A- Wet or slippery floors are very common. Your employer may be at fault here if the floor is wet or, alternatively, the floor is not appropriate for the work conditions. For example, if there is a tendency for the floor to become wet, then your employer may be under a duty to ensure that the floor is made of anti-slip material. Another common workplace accident occurs when the floor or external pathways are uneven or defective. Another example of when slips and trips occur is when your employer lacks a good housekeeping system. In other words, systems in place that fellow employees know about in dealing with spillages or inspecting the floors for defects.
Q4) What happens if the accident was caused by the fault of a fellow employee? Will I have to sue them, and would they get into trouble? Do I have to sue them directly?
A- Your employer is responsible for any mistake that a fellow employee makes. Therefore, any claim would still be against your employer (who should be insured). Common examples here is if a fellow employee spilt something on the floor and did not take any action to clear it up. Alternatively, a fellow employee has left tripping hazards on a walkway.
Q5) What should I do if I have an accident at work?
A- We offer a free initial, no obligation consultation where you can meet or speak with a solicitor over the phone. We would advise you as to whether you have a case and whether we are prepared to take it on a “no win, no fee” basis. This service is free of charge, and there is no obligation to pursue the case or indeed to instruct us to pursue the case.
If you have suffered an injury as a result of an accident, please contact a member of our Personal Injury team for a no-obligation chat on 01253 778231.