Work Accident Compensation

Copyright (c) 2011 Julie Glynn

In the event you suffer as a result of a work accident, you may want to consider discussing the incident with a lawyer. This is because it is highly possible the accident happened because your employer failed to comply with their 'duty of care', a legal responsibility to protect the health and safety of staff. If this can be proven, then you may be able to claim compensation - both for your pain and suffering, and for any financial expenses you have lost.

A Guide to Work Accident Compensation.

If your work accident claim is successful, you will be awarded compensation. This will comprise a sum for General Damages and a sum for Special Damages. Each is explored in more detail below:-

1. General Damages.

General Damages relate to the pain and suffering you have experienced as a direct result of your work accident. A medical expert will be used to assess your injuries, which will enable your solicitor to evaluate how much you should receive in General Damages. Factors that will be taken into consideration include:-

* The severity of your injury;

* How much pain and suffering your injury has caused;

* How your injury has affected your life;

* How your injury is going to affect your life in the future.

2. Special Damages.

Special Damages are there to recover the finances you have lost because of your accident, as well as any additional expenses you have had to spend, such as:-

* A loss of earnings;

* The cost of medical treatment;

* Travel expenses;

* Medication expenses;

* Care costs.

As with General Damages, evidence will be need to quantify the amount of Special Damages. For example, your solicitor may require pay slips to estimate how much money you have lost due to being unable to work, as well as receipts for other expenses you have had to pay for, such as travel or medication.

How is Work Accident Compensation Calculated?

The sum of compensation you will receive for your work accident is entirely dependent upon your individual circumstances, and therefore each case will differ. The main point of consideration is the extent of your injury, and how this will affect you both in the short-term and the long-term. Your solicitor will use their professional knowledge of the law to suggest an appropriate figure, which will then be added to the actual financial losses you have sustained (ie. Special Damages). This figure will be offered to the other side, which will either be accepted or negotiated. Once a sum is agreed upon, your claim will be settled, and you will receive 100% of your compensation.


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Visit Work Accident Solicitors if you have been Injured At Work.

Read more about Work Accident Claims to discover everything you need to know about making a claim.