I suffered a hernia after moving heavy furniture in an office, I believe I may be entitled to compensation but am worried about taking legal action against my employer. Is it common for claims for a manual handling injury at work to go all the way to court?
It is important to remember that no two claims for a manual handling injury at work are the same, the circumstances of accidents and the impact an injury has on the victim’s life can vary greatly. However it is highly unlikely you will end up facing your employer in court over your work injury claim.
In claims for a manual handling injury at work, it is quite common for employees to worry about making a compensation claim as they feel it may negatively affect their position in the company, future job prospects and their relationship with management. It is important to remember in this instance that your compensation claim is made against your employer’s insurance company and not your employer. Often employers are genuinely upset when an employee is injured in a workplace accident.
However it is important to remember that they have a duty of care to provide you with a safe environment to work in and adequate equipment in order to do your job. If your employer fails to provide one of the above either through a lack of funds or an inadequate knowledge of safety regulations, you may be entitled to compensation for your injury.
Successful claims for a manual handling injury at work are generally supported with substantial compensation, to ensure you are aware of the various forms of evidence you could include in your claim it is advised that you speak with a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible.
It could also be the case that you receive a direct offer of compensation from your employer’s insurance company. Although you are advised to be wary of such an offer, it should be welcomed as it shows the insurers are prepared to accept liability for your injury.
It is imperative that you refer any such offer to your personal injury lawyer as they will ensure that people who make claims for a manual handling injury at work receive the maximum amount of compensation they are entitled to.