Workplace injuries are more common than many realise, and when they occur, they can significantly disrupt your life. Whether it is a minor incident or a serious accident, the consequences can be long-lasting. If you live or work in Cuckfield and have suffered a work-related injury, you may be entitled to compensation. Understanding your legal rights is the first step in ensuring that you are treated fairly and receive the support you deserve.
This guide explains what qualifies as a work injury, how to begin a claim, and why expert legal advice can make a major difference in securing the outcome you need.
What counts as a workplace injury?
A workplace injury is any physical or psychological harm sustained while performing your job or as a direct result of your employment. These can range from slips and trips to more serious conditions caused by long-term exposure or repeated strain.
Common examples of work-related injuries include:
- Back injuries from lifting or poor posture
- Falls from height
- Repetitive strain injuries (RSIs)
- Chemical burns or exposure
- Machinery accidents
- Stress-related or psychological harm due to workload or bullying
You do not need to work in a high-risk industry to be eligible for compensation. Office workers, retail staff, and remote employees may all be affected by workplace injuries.
Who is eligible to claim compensation?
You may be able to claim compensation if:
- You were injured in the course of your employment
- The injury occurred within the last three years
- The incident was caused by your employer’s negligence or a co-worker’s actions
Employers have a legal duty to provide a safe working environment. This includes carrying out risk assessments, providing adequate training, maintaining equipment, and ensuring all safety procedures are followed. If they fail in this duty, and you suffer an injury as a result, they may be held responsible.
Even if you were partly responsible for the incident, you might still be able to claim. The legal principle of contributory negligence allows for shared responsibility in some cases, which may reduce but not eliminate your compensation.
Steps to take after a workplace injury in Cuckfield
If you have suffered a work-related injury in Cuckfield, it is important to take the right steps as early as possible.
- Seek medical attention – Your health comes first. Ensure that your injury is assessed and treated promptly by a medical professional.
- Report the incident – Notify your employer or manager, and make sure it is recorded in the workplace accident book.
- Gather evidence – Take photos of the scene, note down any witness statements, and keep copies of medical reports or expenses.
- Contact a solicitor – Seeking expert legal advice will help you understand whether you have a valid claim and how to proceed.
How compensation is calculated
Compensation for workplace injuries typically covers two main areas:
General damages
This is awarded for the pain, suffering, and loss of amenity you have experienced. The amount varies depending on the severity of the injury, how it affects your daily life, and the long-term impact on your physical or mental health.
Special damages
This compensates you for any financial losses related to the injury, including:
- Loss of earnings (past and future)
- Medical expenses
- Travel costs for treatment
- Costs of care or home adaptations
In some cases, additional compensation may be available for future rehabilitation needs or reduced earning potential.
Why choose Marley Solicitors if you live in Cuckfield?
At Marley Solicitors, we understand the impact a work injury can have on your life and livelihood. With experience supporting clients across West Sussex, including Cuckfield, we offer expert legal advice tailored to your situation.
Here’s why our clients trust us:
- Local expertise – We understand the local working environment and have helped many Cuckfield residents with similar claims.
- No win, no fee – Our no win, no fee agreements mean you can pursue justice without financial risk.
- Clear, compassionate advice – We explain every step of the process in plain English, so you know where you stand from day one.
- Proven results – Our track record shows we consistently secure fair and meaningful settlements for injured workers.
How long do you have to make a claim?
In most cases, you have three years from the date of the injury to begin legal proceedings. This is known as the limitation period. If the injury developed over time (such as a repetitive strain injury), the three years typically start from the date you became aware of the condition and its link to your work.
Exceptions may apply in cases involving children, individuals lacking mental capacity, or where the injury occurred abroad.
Can you claim if you’re self-employed?
Even if you are self-employed, you may still be able to make a claim if someone else’s negligence caused your injury. For example, if you were working on a building site controlled by another contractor, and unsafe working conditions led to an accident, that party may be liable.
It is worth discussing your circumstances with a solicitor to understand whether your case is valid.
Common myths about work injury claims
- “I can’t afford a solicitor”
Thanks to no win, no fee agreements, you don’t have to pay anything upfront. You only pay if your claim is successful, and the fee is usually a fixed percentage of the compensation awarded. - “I’ll be fired if I make a claim”
It is illegal for an employer to dismiss you for making a valid injury claim. If they do, you may also be entitled to bring a case for unfair dismissal. - “I don’t want to cause trouble”
Claiming compensation is not about punishing your employer, but about getting the support and financial relief you need to recover. In most cases, the compensation is paid out by the employer’s insurance company, not directly by them.
Speak to a solicitor today
If you are based in Cuckfield and believe you have suffered a work-related injury, it is important to act now. The sooner you begin the process, the easier it will be to gather the necessary evidence and secure your rightful compensation.
Marley Solicitors is here to help you every step of the way. Contact our team today for a free, no-obligation consultation. We’ll listen to your story, explain your rights, and advise you on the best course of action.
