Scaffolding Accident Claims
If you’ve been injured as a result of the use of scaffolding on a construction site, we can help you establish whether or not you’re entitled to claim for compensation. You may have been working on the scaffolding, or elsewhere on the site. Even if you were a passer-by or neighbour of the site, if you were injured as a result of the use of the scaffolding you may be able to claim for compensation.
Our specialist team provides expert legal advice in different languages to clients who have been involved in workplace accidents, including workers in construction and many other sectors. They operate on a No Win No Fee basis, meaning that you won’t pay any fees unless your case is successful.
Can my employer punish me in any way for making a compensation claim?
As a construction worker, you may be self-employed or operate as a subcontractor. However, if you are employed directly by the main contractor, you could find yourself looking to claim against your employer.
This is a big worry for many people injured in an accident at work. Thankfully, the law gives you a lot of protection. Under your employment contract, your employer has no legal right to discriminate against you on the basis that you have taken legal action against them.
If they did try to dismiss you, discipline you or make any unreasonable changes to your working conditions after the accident (such as reducing your hours, demoting you or reducing your salary), they could be putting themselves at risk of a claim for unfair dismissal or constructive dismissal.
Employers’ liability insurance is a legal requirement for the vast majority of businesses. This cover would provide the funds for any compensation awarded against you, so your claim wouldn’t put the finances of your employer at any immediate risk.
How can scaffolding accidents arise?
Scaffolding is commonly used where a substantial amount of work at height is required for a prolonged period. In many ways it can be safer and easier than using ladders, but it does bring some risks of its own such as:
- Slips, trips and falls on the scaffolding, especially in bad weather
- Materials, tools and discarded waste falling from the scaffolding
As with any workplace accident, the risk of such accidents can be reduced significantly with the right procedures and training. Because of the potential for very serious injuries, the Health & Safety Executive (HSE) issues specific guidance on the safe use of scaffolding. If the right measures aren’t in place, this can suggest failings in the management of the business. In our experience, this is a significant contributing factor to most kinds of accidents in the workplace, including those involving scaffolding.
What sort of injuries can I claim for after a scaffolding accident?
You can claim for just about any form of injury. Because scaffolding involves working at height, and the risk of objects falling from height, when claims do arise there is a very real risk that they could be severe.
We can advise on any injury, ranging from minor ones right through to catastrophic, life-changing ones. Sadly, scaffolding accidents can be fatal in some instances. If you have suffered the loss of a loved one or family member in the accident, we can advise you on how to claim for compensation.
How much compensation might I receive?
The amount of compensation you receive very much depends on your specific circumstances. That’s why we recommend that you get in touch with us promptly so that we can discuss the details of your accident with you.
You may be able to claim for the following if they are a direct result of your injuries:
- Compensation for distress and upheaval
- Loss of earnings and financial losses incurred
- Medical costs, prescription fees, care and rehabilitation costs
- Damage to your property
- Travel expenses incurred
Do I have a valid claim for compensation?
If you can answer yes to all three of the following questions, we recommend that you contact us to discuss your circumstances further:
- Was the incident within the last three years?
- Was someone else to blame for the incident?
- Were you injured as a result of the incident?
Answering ‘yes’ to all three doesn’t mean that a successful claim is certain. However, these questions are key to the claims process. Answering yes to all three does indicate that you have a greater chance of being entitled to claim. Getting prompt, specialist legal advice could be beneficial.
Because of the three-year time limit, it’s important that you contact us promptly so that we can start the process for you.
How do I begin a compensation claim for a scaffolding accident?
Call us on 0208 1111 911 or contact us through the website and we’ll discuss your circumstances with you. The first call typically takes about 15 minutes and in that time we can usually determine whether or not it’s realistic to pursue a claim for compensation.
