An accident at work can turn your life upside down. Whether you work in construction, retail, a warehouse, or an office, every workplace in Preston has a legal duty to keep employees safe. If you’ve been injured while doing your job, you may be entitled to make a claim for compensation.
In this guide, Marley Solicitors explains your rights after a workplace accident, the steps to take if you’ve been hurt, and how our team in Preston can help you secure the compensation you deserve.
What is an accident at work?
An accident at work is any incident that causes injury or illness while you are carrying out your job. This could range from minor cuts and sprains to life-changing injuries. Common workplace accidents include:
- Slips, trips and falls on the same level
- Falling from height
- Manual handling injuries (e.g. lifting, pushing or pulling)
- Injuries caused by machinery or equipment
- Exposure to hazardous substances
- Repetitive strain injuries (RSI)
- Burns and electrical shocks
- Workplace violence
Even if the injury seems minor, it’s important to report it and seek advice. Some injuries can develop over time or worsen without proper treatment.
Your employer’s responsibilities
Employers in Preston are legally required to ensure the health and safety of their staff. This duty is set out in several UK laws, including the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974. Key responsibilities include:
- Providing appropriate training and supervision
- Carrying out regular risk assessments
- Maintaining a safe working environment
- Supplying adequate protective equipment (PPE)
- Keeping equipment and machinery in safe condition
- Implementing procedures to reduce hazards
If your employer fails in these duties and you suffer an injury as a result, they may be held liable for your accident.
Can I make a claim?
If you’ve had an accident at work in Preston and it was caused by someone else’s negligence (your employer, a co-worker, or even a contractor), you may have the right to claim compensation. To do this successfully, you’ll usually need to prove:
- You were owed a duty of care
- That duty was breached
- The breach directly caused your injury
It’s not necessary for the accident to be entirely someone else’s fault. Even if you were partly to blame, you may still be entitled to compensation on a reduced basis. This is known as “contributory negligence”.
How much compensation can I claim?
Compensation amounts vary depending on the severity of your injury, the impact on your life and income, and the circumstances of your case. A successful claim will typically cover:
- General damages (pain, suffering and loss of amenity)
- Special damages (lost earnings, medical expenses, travel costs)
- Future loss of income if you can’t return to work
- Care and rehabilitation costs
At Marley Solicitors, we always strive to secure the maximum compensation available, helping you recover physically and financially.
What should I do after an accident at work?
If you’ve been injured at work, there are important steps to take straight away:
- Seek medical attention – Your health comes first. Always see a doctor, even if the injury seems minor.
- Report the accident – Inform your manager or supervisor and make sure the incident is recorded in the accident book.
- Gather evidence – Take photographs of the scene, your injuries and any equipment involved. Get contact details for any witnesses.
- Keep records – Save all medical records, receipts for expenses, and a diary of how the injury affects your daily life.
- Get legal advice – Speak to a specialist solicitor to understand your rights and begin your claim.
The sooner you act, the stronger your case is likely to be.
Why choose Marley Solicitors in Preston?
Marley Solicitors has a proud history of supporting workers in Preston and across Lancashire. We understand how disruptive a workplace accident can be, and we are here to make the legal process as smooth as possible. When you work with us, you benefit from:
- Local solicitors with in-depth knowledge of Preston’s employment sectors
- A compassionate and professional team
- No win, no fee agreements
- Clear, jargon-free advice at every stage
- A proven track record of success in personal injury cases
Whether you work in construction, healthcare, manufacturing, or another local industry, we have the expertise to handle your case.
Time limits for making a claim
In most cases, you have three years from the date of the accident (or from when you became aware of your injury) to make a claim. This is known as the “limitation period”. If you’re claiming on behalf of someone else (such as a child or a relative who lacks mental capacity), different rules may apply.
We recommend seeking legal advice as soon as possible so that vital evidence isn’t lost and deadlines aren’t missed.
Common workplace accidents in Preston
Preston has a diverse economy, with sectors such as construction, warehousing, manufacturing, logistics, and care services employing thousands of local workers. Common accidents we see in Preston include:
- Forklift accidents in warehouses and distribution centres
- Falls from scaffolding on building sites
- Needlestick injuries in healthcare settings
- Slip and trip hazards in shops and offices
- Machinery accidents in industrial environments
Whatever the nature of your job, we can help if you’ve suffered a workplace injury.
Making a no win, no fee claim
At Marley Solicitors, we offer no win, no fee agreements for workplace accident claims. This means:
- You pay nothing upfront
- You only pay legal fees if your claim is successful
- Your solicitor will explain any deductions clearly before you proceed
This approach gives you access to expert legal support without financial risk.
How we support you through the process
We know that making a legal claim can feel overwhelming. Our solicitors will handle every step of the process, including:
- Investigating the accident and gathering evidence
- Liaising with your employer and their insurers
- Arranging medical assessments
- Calculating your compensation
- Representing you in settlement negotiations or court (if required)
Throughout your claim, you’ll have a dedicated point of contact and regular updates, so you always know what’s happening.
Speak to our Preston team today
If you’ve been injured in a workplace accident in Preston, don’t face it alone. Marley Solicitors is here to help you understand your rights, recover what you’re entitled to, and move forward with confidence.
Contact our Preston office today for a free, no-obligation consultation. We’ll listen to your story, explain your options, and help you take the next step.
