A workplace accident can be a frightening and confusing experience. You may be dealing with pain, medical treatment and time off work, while also worrying about how the incident will affect your future. Knowing what steps to take immediately after an accident at work can help protect your health, income, and legal rights. In Hove and across Sussex, Marley Solicitors supports employees who have been injured at work and helps them make informed decisions about their next steps.
Understanding workplace accidents
A workplace accident can occur in any environment, from construction sites and warehouses to offices, shops and public services. Common causes include:
- Slips, trips and falls due to wet floors or uneven surfaces
- Injuries from faulty equipment or inadequate maintenance
- Manual handling accidents caused by lifting or moving heavy objects
- Exposure to hazardous substances without proper protection
- Accidents involving vehicles, machinery or tools
- Falls from height due to lack of safety measures
Employers have a legal duty to keep workplaces safe and to minimise risks as far as reasonably practicable. When they fail to do so and an employee is injured, the employee may be entitled to make a claim for compensation.
Immediate steps after an accident at work
Acting quickly after a workplace accident can protect both your health and your legal position. Key steps include:
- Seek medical attention
Your health should come first. Call emergency services if needed or visit a doctor as soon as possible. Even if injuries seem minor, get them checked. Medical records will provide evidence if you later make a claim. - Report the accident
Inform your manager or supervisor straight away. All workplaces should have an accident book or reporting system. Make sure your report is accurate, and keep a copy for your records. This creates an official record of what happened. - Gather evidence
If you can, take photographs of the scene, your injuries and anything else that contributed to the accident. Note the names and contact details of any witnesses. If equipment was involved, record its makes, models, and conditions. This information may be vital later. - Avoid admitting fault
In the immediate aftermath of an accident, you may not know exactly what went wrong. Stick to the facts when speaking to colleagues, managers or insurers. Do not sign anything without understanding it fully. - Seek legal advice early
An experienced injury solicitor can explain your rights, help you collect evidence and deal with your employer or their insurers on your behalf.
Employer responsibilities
Employers in the UK are required to:
- Provide a safe workplace with appropriate equipment and training
- Conduct regular risk assessments and address hazards promptly
- Provide protective gear where necessary
- Keep records of accidents and report certain incidents to the Health and Safety Executive
- Hold valid employers’ liability insurance to cover compensation claims
Failure to meet these obligations may amount to negligence. A solicitor can review your case and determine whether your employer breached their duty of care.
Common injuries from workplace accidents
The type and severity of injuries vary depending on the job and the nature of the accident. Examples include:
- Sprains, strains and fractures from slips or manual handling incidents
- Cuts and lacerations from sharp tools or machinery
- Burns from chemicals, hot surfaces or electrical faults
- Head injuries from falling objects or falls from height
- Repetitive strain injuries caused by poor workstation set-up or inadequate breaks
- Psychological harm such as anxiety or post-traumatic stress after a serious accident
Even injuries that seem minor at first can worsen over time or cause lasting problems. Prompt medical attention and accurate documentation are important for both your recovery and any potential claim.
Making a claim for compensation
If your accident was caused by your employer’s negligence, you may be able to make a claim for compensation. A successful claim can cover:
- Pain, suffering and loss of enjoyment in life
- Loss of earnings and any reduction in future earning capacity
- Medical treatment, rehabilitation and therapy costs
- Travel expenses for appointments or treatment
- Care needs or home adaptations if required for serious injuries
Marley Solicitors can assess your case and advise you on the full range of damages available. We handle the legal process so you can focus on recovery.
Time limits for bringing a claim
In England and Wales, you usually have three years from the date of the accident or from when you first realised your injury was work-related before you can start a claim. For people under 18 at the time of the accident, the three-year limit runs from their 18th birthday. Acting promptly is always recommended because evidence is easier to gather while details are fresh.
Why instruct an injury solicitor?
Trying to handle a workplace injury claim yourself can be daunting, especially when dealing with insurers and legal procedures. Working with an injury solicitor offers clear benefits:
- Expert guidance on whether you have a valid claim and what it may be worth
- Efficient evidence gathering to strengthen your case
- Skilled negotiation with insurers to maximise compensation
- Protection from common mistakes such as missing deadlines or undervaluing your claim
- Reduced stress, allowing you to focus on your health and family
Many claims can be funded on a no win no fee basis, meaning you pay nothing upfront and only pay legal fees if your claim succeeds.
Local knowledge in Hove
Marley Solicitors regularly assists clients in Hove and throughout Sussex. We are familiar with local industries, common workplace risks and healthcare providers. This local insight can accelerate the claims process and help us gather evidence effectively. It also means you have easy access to face-to-face meetings, if you prefer, rather than dealing solely with national call centres.
Supporting your recovery
Compensation is important, but your health comes first. At Marley Solicitors we take a holistic approach. We can help you:
- Arrange medical assessments and rehabilitation
- Seek interim payments to cover urgent expenses while your claim is ongoing
- Advise on employment rights if you cannot return to work immediately
- Guide you on benefits or financial support available after an accident
Our goal is to help you rebuild your life, not just win a legal case.
Frequently asked questions
Will making a claim affect my job?
It is unlawful for an employer to dismiss or victimise you for bringing a legitimate injury claim. If you are concerned about retaliation, speak to a solicitor immediately.
What if I was partly at fault for the accident?
You may still be able to claim compensation. The amount you receive may be reduced to reflect your share of responsibility, but you should not assume you cannot claim without legal advice.
Do I need to know if my employer has insurance?
No. All employers are required by law to carry employers’ liability insurance. Your solicitor will handle communication with the insurer.
Why choose Marley Solicitors?
Marley Solicitors combines legal expertise with a supportive approach. We understand how disruptive a workplace accident can be, and we are committed to guiding you through the process with clear, practical advice. We:
- Handle all the legal work so you can concentrate on recovery
- Provide honest, straightforward guidance from the start
- Negotiate firmly to achieve the best possible settlement
- Offer an accessible local service for clients in Hove and across Sussex
Taking the next step
If you have suffered an accident at work in Hove, you do not have to face the situation alone. Marley Solicitors can help you understand your rights, build a strong case and pursue the compensation you deserve. Contact our team to discuss your circumstances. We will listen to your story, answer your questions in plain language and outline a clear plan of action. Acting early gives you the best chance of a positive outcome and helps you move forward with confidence.