Workplace safety negligence occurs when an employer fails to take the necessary steps to protect their employees from harm. This can include inadequate training, poor maintenance of equipment, or a failure to provide essential protective gear. When safety standards are neglected, the consequences for workers can be life-changing. In Lancaster, where a wide range of industries operate from healthcare and education to construction and manufacturing, incidents of workplace negligence can and do happen.
At Marley Solicitors, we understand how disruptive and distressing it can be to suffer an injury because your employer did not take their legal duty of care seriously. Our team regularly helps people in Lancaster and the surrounding areas to pursue compensation after workplace accidents, ensuring they get the support and financial security they need to recover.
What is a workplace safety negligence claim?
A workplace safety negligence claim is a type of personal injury case brought against an employer who has failed to uphold their responsibility to protect employees from foreseeable harm. Employers have a legal duty to provide:
- A safe working environment
- Proper training and supervision
- Well-maintained equipment and machinery
- Adequate personal protective equipment (PPE)
- Risk assessments and safety procedures
When these responsibilities are ignored, accidents such as falls, burns, repetitive strain injuries, or machinery-related injuries can occur. A negligence claim allows injured workers to seek compensation for pain, suffering, lost earnings, and medical expenses.
Can I claim compensation for workplace negligence in Lancaster?
Yes, if you were injured at work in Lancaster due to your employer’s failure to provide a safe environment, you may be entitled to compensation. This applies whether you work in a hospital such as the Royal Lancaster Infirmary, on a construction site in the city centre, or in an office environment where health and safety procedures were not properly followed.
The key is proving that:
- Your employer owed you a duty of care.
- They breached this duty by failing to follow proper safety measures.
- That breach caused your injury.
If these three points can be shown, you have strong grounds to make a claim.
Common examples of workplace safety negligence
Some frequent causes of workplace injury claims in Lancaster include:
- Slips, trips, and falls due to poorly maintained walkways or spillages left unattended.
- Injuries from unsafe machinery or lack of protective guards.
- Exposure to hazardous substances without correct protective equipment.
- Manual handling injuries caused by lack of training or incorrect lifting techniques.
- Stress and psychological harm caused by unsafe or overloaded working conditions.
Every workplace is different, but employers across all sectors must follow the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974. Failing to do so places employees at risk.
Steps to take if you have been injured at work
If you have suffered an injury due to workplace safety negligence in Lancaster, taking the right steps early can make your claim stronger:
- Report the accident to your employer and ensure it is recorded in the accident book.
- Seek medical attention as soon as possible, whether through your GP or at Royal Lancaster Infirmary.
- Collect evidence such as photos, witness details, and copies of any risk assessments.
- Keep a record of financial losses, including lost wages and medical expenses.
- Contact Marley Solicitors for advice and guidance on beginning your claim.
How much compensation could I receive?
The amount of compensation for a workplace negligence claim in Lancaster depends on the severity of your injury and the impact it has had on your life. Factors include:
- The level of pain and suffering endured.
- Time off work and lost earnings.
- Ongoing medical treatment or rehabilitation needs.
- Long-term impact on quality of life or future employment prospects.
While minor injuries may result in smaller settlements, more serious injuries such as fractures, burns, or long-term conditions can lead to higher compensation awards. Marley Solicitors will guide you through the process and fight to achieve the best possible outcome.
Why choose Marley Solicitors in Lancaster?
Marley Solicitors has a strong reputation for helping injured workers secure the compensation they deserve. We have supported clients across Lancaster and Lancashire in cases involving construction accidents, healthcare negligence, and industrial injuries. Our team combines expert legal knowledge with compassion, ensuring you feel supported from start to finish.
Many of our clients benefit from our no win, no fee agreements, meaning you face no financial risk when starting a claim.
Frequently asked questions
How long do I have to make a workplace negligence claim in Lancaster?
You typically have three years from the date of your injury to begin a claim. However, it is best to seek advice as soon as possible while evidence is fresh.
Will making a claim affect my job?
It is unlawful for your employer to dismiss or treat you unfairly for pursuing a legitimate workplace injury claim. Most claims are handled through insurance companies rather than directly against your employer.
Speak to Marley Solicitors today
If you have been injured due to workplace safety negligence in Lancaster, you do not need to face the aftermath alone. Marley Solicitors offers free initial consultations to discuss your situation and explain your options.
Contact our dedicated Lancaster team today to begin your claim and secure the compensation you are entitled to. Your health, livelihood, and future deserve to be protected.
