Accidents in the workplace can happen suddenly and without warning. Whether you work in construction, healthcare, retail, or an office environment, you are entitled to feel safe while doing your job. Unfortunately, injuries at work remain all too common. If you have been injured at work in Shrewsbury, it is important to understand your legal rights, what steps to take, and how Marley Solicitors can support you through the process of claiming the compensation you may be entitled to.
In this guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know about workplace injury claims, including what qualifies as a valid claim, what evidence you will need, how long you have to start a claim, and how working with experienced solicitors in Shrewsbury can make all the difference.
Common types of workplace injuries in Shrewsbury
Workplace injuries vary depending on the type of job, but many types of accidents occur across a wide range of industries. Some of the most common injuries reported in Shrewsbury include:
- Slips, trips and falls on the same level
- Falls from height (particularly in construction or warehouse settings)
- Manual handling injuries, such as back and shoulder strain
- Injuries caused by machinery or equipment
- Exposure to hazardous substances
- Repetitive strain injuries (RSI)
- Stress-related or psychological injuries due to unsafe working conditions
If any of these apply to your situation, or if your injury falls outside this list, you may still have grounds for a valid workplace injury claim.
What duties does your employer have?
Your employer has a legal duty to provide a safe working environment. This includes conducting regular risk assessments, ensuring employees are trained properly, maintaining machinery and equipment, and providing protective equipment where necessary. Under the Health and Safety at Work, etc. Act 1974, all employers are required to take reasonable steps to protect the health, safety, and welfare of their employees.
If your employer failed in their legal duty, and that failure led to your injury, you could be entitled to make a claim for compensation.
What should you do if you are injured at work?
Taking the right steps immediately after a workplace injury can greatly improve your chances of making a successful claim. Here is what you should do:
- Seek medical attention
Your health comes first. Whether the injury is minor or severe, visit a GP, local clinic or hospital to get checked. Medical records will be crucial evidence later. - Report the incident
Notify your employer or manager as soon as possible. Make sure the incident is logged in the company accident book. If your employer does not keep one, document the details in writing and retain a copy. - Gather evidence
Take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any equipment or hazards involved. Collect witness statements if possible. - Keep a record
Track all costs and losses resulting from the injury. This could include travel to medical appointments, loss of earnings, medical treatment and adjustments made to your home or vehicle. - Get legal advice
Speaking to a solicitor early can protect your rights and help you build a strong case. Marley Solicitors in Shrewsbury offer expert advice on workplace injury claims and can guide you through every step of the process.
How much compensation can you claim?
The amount that may be rewarded to you depends on several factors, including the type and severity of your injury, the impact on your daily life, loss of earnings, and any long-term effects on your health or ability to work. Compensation is generally divided into:
- General damages, which compensate you for the pain, suffering and loss of amenity
- Special damages, which cover financial losses and expenses
Our team in Shrewsbury will ensure all elements of your claim are carefully considered so that you receive a fair settlement.
Is there a time limit for making a claim?
Yes. In most cases, you have three years from the date of the accident (or from when you first became aware of the injury) to start legal proceedings. There are exceptions for cases involving children or individuals lacking mental capacity.
It is advisable not to delay. The sooner you contact a solicitor, the easier it is to gather reliable evidence and statements to support your claim.
Will making a claim affect your job?
Many injured workers worry about taking legal action against their employer. It is important to know that you are protected by law. Your employer is not allowed to treat you unfairly or dismiss you for making a legitimate claim. All employers are required to have insurance that covers workplace injury claims, so your compensation is paid by their insurer, not directly from the business itself.
Why choose Marley Solicitors in Shrewsbury?
At Marley Solicitors, we understand how stressful and overwhelming it can be to deal with an injury while trying to recover physically, emotionally and financially. Our team based in Shrewsbury is committed to helping local residents get the justice and compensation they deserve.
We offer:
- Clear, practical legal advice tailored to your situation
- A compassionate approach focused on your recovery
- Transparent communication at every stage of your claim
- No win, no fee services available for most personal injury cases
We are proud to support injured workers in Shrewsbury and surrounding areas, and we will fight to ensure you are treated fairly.
Take the first step today
If you or a loved one has been injured at work in Shrewsbury, do not face it alone. Marley Solicitors is here to help you understand your rights, gather the necessary evidence, and take the right legal steps to secure the compensation you are entitled to.
Contact our Shrewsbury office today for a free, no-obligation consultation. Let us help you move forward with confidence and peace of mind.
