If you’ve been injured while working in Cheltenham, you may be wondering whether you’re eligible to claim compensation. An accident at work claim is a legal process where an employee seeks compensation for injuries sustained during the course of their employment. This could involve anything from a fall in an office to an injury caused by faulty equipment on a construction site.
In a vibrant town like Cheltenham, many residents are employed in local industries, offices, or service roles where workplace safety is vital. Accidents can happen anywhere, and when they do, Marley Solicitors is here to help you understand your rights and claim the compensation you deserve.
What counts as an accident at work?
An accident at work can cover a wide range of incidents, including:
- Slips, trips or falls in the workplace
• Injuries caused by faulty or dangerous equipment
• Repetitive strain injuries from poor workstation setup
• Accidents involving heavy lifting or manual handling
• Exposure to harmful substances without adequate protection
• Falls from height, particularly in construction or agricultural jobs
• Injuries from machinery or tools
• Electrocution or burns due to poor maintenance or lack of safety precautions
Can I claim compensation for an accident at work in Cheltenham?
Yes, if the accident was caused by your employer’s negligence, you may have grounds for a compensation claim. Employers in Cheltenham are legally obligated to ensure a safe working environment under UK health and safety laws. If they’ve failed in this duty, and it resulted in your injury, you could be entitled to financial compensation.
Do I need to prove fault to make a claim?
In most cases, yes; you’ll need to show that your employer breached their duty of care and that this directly led to your injury. However, you don’t need to handle this alone. Marley Solicitors can guide you through the process and help you gather the necessary evidence, such as accident reports, witness statements, and medical records.
Where to go for medical treatment in Cheltenham
After an accident at work, it’s important to seek medical attention straight away. In Cheltenham, you might visit local services such as:
- Cheltenham General Hospital
• Local GP surgeries and NHS walk-in clinics
• Urgent treatment centres in Gloucester
• Local physiotherapists or rehabilitation centres within Cheltenham
Getting medical records early on helps support your claim and ensures you receive the right treatment. It also demonstrates that you took the injury seriously, which can help validate your claim.
How long do I have to make a claim?
In most cases, you have three years from the date of the accident to make a claim. This is known as the limitation period. There are some exceptions, such as cases involving minors or those who lack mental capacity, but it’s best to act sooner rather than later.
What can I claim for after an accident at work?
Compensation is generally split into two parts:
- General damages – covering the pain, suffering and loss of amenity caused by the injury
• Special damages – covering financial losses like loss of earnings, medical expenses, travel costs, and rehabilitation support
Other costs may also be included, such as:
- Prescription charges and private treatment
• Equipment or home adjustments
• Loss of future income or pension contributions if you’re unable to return to work
Common workplace injuries seen in Cheltenham
In a town like Cheltenham, workplace injuries can vary by industry. Common types include:
- Service industry injuries such as slips in kitchens or back strain from manual tasks
• Office-related injuries like back pain from poor seating or stress-related illness from overwork
• Construction site injuries from falls, equipment misuse or vehicle accidents
Marley Solicitors has experience in handling claims across various sectors, and we tailor our approach to the specifics of your job and injury.
How Marley Solicitors supports Cheltenham residents
Marley Solicitors has helped many clients in Cheltenham and surrounding areas successfully claim compensation after workplace injuries. We understand the challenges that come with working in busy towns and regional employers, and we treat every case with the discretion and dedication it deserves.
Our legal team takes the time to understand your unique situation and works to secure the best possible outcome. From initial advice to gathering evidence and negotiating with insurers, we are with you every step of the way.
We also offer:
- No win, no fee arrangements
• Transparent advice with no legal jargon
• Personal case handlers who know the local area
How much can I receive for a workplace injury in Cheltenham?
Compensation amounts vary based on the nature and severity of the injury. For example:
- Minor hand or wrist injuries may result in a few thousand pounds
• More serious back or head injuries can lead to payouts ranging from tens of thousands to over £100,000
We also factor in your loss of earnings and future care needs. During your free consultation, we can provide an early estimate based on your circumstances.
What if I’m partly to blame?
Even if you were partly responsible for the accident, you may still be able to make a claim under what’s known as “contributory negligence”. In such cases, your compensation may be reduced, but you won’t be automatically disqualified.
For example, if you weren’t wearing protective gloves during a machinery-related injury but your employer failed to provide training, you may still be entitled to a percentage of the full amount.
What to do after an accident at work in Cheltenham
If you’ve had a workplace accident, take the following steps:
- Report the incident to your employer and ensure it’s logged in the accident book
- Seek medical attention promptly
- Gather evidence – this includes photos, witness names and copies of correspondence
- Keep a record of any expenses related to your injury
- Contact Marley Solicitors to discuss your next steps
Frequently asked questions
Can I claim compensation for a workplace injury in Cheltenham if I’m self-employed?
Yes, depending on the circumstances. If your injury was caused by someone else’s negligence (such as a contractor or site manager), you may still be eligible to claim.
Will making a claim affect my job?
Your employer cannot legally dismiss you for making a legitimate claim. If you feel threatened or pressured, our team can provide legal support to protect your rights.
Do I need to attend court?
Most claims settle out of court. Marley Solicitors aims to resolve your case efficiently through negotiation, but we are prepared to represent you in court if needed.
Contact Marley Solicitors for expert support in Cheltenham
If you’ve suffered an accident at work in Cheltenham, contact Marley Solicitors today for a free, no-obligation consultation. Our experienced team is here to help you recover the compensation you deserve with empathy and professionalism.
