Most individuals will spend their entire careers without encountering a workplace accident, especially those in less hazardous settings such as offices. However, this doesn’t negate the possibility of accidents resulting in injuries. In reality, the potential for injury lurks everywhere, and accidents can occur unexpectedly.
Industries like construction, manufacturing, and warehousing pose higher risks due to the nature of the work involved. If you experience a workplace accident that leaves you unable to work due to injury, you may question whether you are entitled to full pay during sick leave. This common query often leads to confusion as the answer varies based on individual circumstances.
Health and Safety at Work
Working in the UK comes with the advantage of being protected by the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974. This legislation mandates that companies and employers must offer comprehensive training to their employees, enabling them to perform their duties with minimal risk to their safety. Adequate personal protective equipment (PPE), including helmets, gloves, and safety goggles, should be provided when required. Additionally, the working environment must be kept to a safe standard, with routine risk assessments conducted to ensure compliance with safety protocols.
Under the Employers Liability Act 1969, it is a legal requirement that all employers possess Employers Liability Insurance. This insurance protects employees who fall ill or become injured as a result of their employer’s negligence and covers the costs of compensation, damages or legal fees of current or former employees who claim for their illness or injury.
Statutory Sick Pay (SSP)
Statutory sick pay serves as a safety net for employees who fall ill or suffer an injury at work and cannot continue working whilst in recovery. The rate of SSP an individual may receive varies as many will receive the standard rate, whilst some employers may offer a more generous pay package if outlined in their employment contracts or company policies.
There are specific criteria that employees must meet in order to be eligible for SSP. You must generally be classified as an ‘employed earner’, earning at least £120 a week. Evidence of incapability to work must also be provided, usually in the form of a doctor’s note written by a medical professional. Payments tend to begin from the fourth day of absence and in some cases can continue for up to 28 weeks until the employee is deemed fit to return to work.
Whilst statutory sick pay is beneficial in covering living costs whilst out of work, it is important to note that there are certain limitations on this scheme and many of those injured at work will not be entitled to full pay. In this circumstance, the cost of medical bills, damages, and loss of earnings may not be covered and employees will need to seek legal advice from a personal injury solicitor on whether they are able to claim compensation for these expenses.
So… Am I Entitled to Full Pay if Injured at Work?
In the UK, the answer to the question ‘Am I Entitled to Full Pay if Injured at Work?’ isn’t straightforward. Personal injury lawyers possess extensive knowledge and experience in handling workplace accident claims, understanding the complexities that can arise based on your employment type and injury.
Typically, injury experts offer free initial consultations for individuals seeking legal advice regarding potential workplace injury claims. Solicitors’ guidance often alleviates concerns about claim outcomes, providing assurance that your case is in capable hands while you focus on recovery.
Legal procedures can be intricate; your personal injury solicitor manages communications with your employer and their insurance company, reducing your involvement. They evaluate the accident circumstances and your injuries, determining the maximum compensation you could receive to ensure fair recompense.
Moreover, some injury lawyers operate on a ‘No win, No fee’ basis. If you pursue a personal injury claim against your employer without success, you won’t be charged for the legal work, and there are no hidden fees. In the event of a successful case, legal costs are deducted from the compensation award at a capped amount, ensuring you receive the majority of the compensation due to you.
Start Your Accident at Work Claim Today
Stonehewer Moss Solicitors is a specialist personal injury firm based in the North West of England, serving clients nationwide. With over 20 years of experience in personal injury law, our solicitors excel in managing various types of accident at work claims and are adept at securing the highest level of compensation for our clients.
We are proud to be accredited by The Association of Personal Injury Lawyers (APIL). This accreditation signifies the specialised expertise of our solicitors who handle your personal injury claim, ensuring that your case is managed with competence and compassion.
If you’ve sustained an injury at work and seek guidance on your next steps or simply wish to understand your legal standing, contact Stonehewer Moss today for a free, no-obligation consultation with a member of our team.
To learn more about No Win No Fee claims, watch this short video.
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Call us on freephone 0800 434 6544 or 01606 87 22 00
Email us at info@stonehewermoss.co.uk
