making an injury claim with your current employer - advice needed.

Sportacus

My wife was badly injured in the head and neck a few months ago due to some faulty machinery in the place where she works. This injury left her bedridden for two months, and she is suffering ongoing pain that may become chronic, and is on repeat prescriptions for pain relievers. She has gone back to work, but is doing a reduced workload.

Can anyone advise what the best way is for her to go about seeking compensation? She's not really tempted by these claims companies you see advertised on TV. I think we do have some legal protection insurance from our home insurer which might be the best route to pursue.

Is it worth her trying to get compensation from the company without a lawyer? Also, how do injury claims typically quantify chronic pain in their calculations? Might it be better to wait in the hope she fully recovers? I understand there is a 3 year limit on injury claims.

C_Mababejive

I'm guessing she isnt in a union? Had she been it would have been so much simpler. I think there is no point seeking compo direct from the employer. Its too close and you would likely not get anywhere.

She needs to find a decent personal injury specialist who will take her case on and recoup his fees as part of the settlement and not as a deduction from any compo. She shouldnt have too much difficulty finding a decent one as they arent making as much as they used to do milking the legal aid system. There are a good few barristers who are having quiet periods!

harrys_dad

If you have legal cover on your home insurance then use it, that is what you are paying for. I assume and hope the injury was recorded on a proper accident form at work, and reported to the HSE if necessary.

Sportacus

yes, it was recorded at work, and my wife has been seeing her employers occupational health advisors. As I understand it the HSE has to get involved in any accident where an employee is off work for more than x number of days - but we've not heard anything from the HSE.

She's not a member of any union unfortunately.