Wind Farm and Turbine Accidents

When Can You File a Personal Injury Claim?

Wind Farm and turbine accidents may occur due to the high-risk working environment of the industry. Both offshore and onshore wind farms pose hazardous conditions for workers which may lead to accidents and injuries.

As the world transitions away from fossil fuels for clean energy, wind farms are playing an increasing important role in sustainable energy supplies. However, if you’ve been injured while working on a wind farm you may be entitled to claim compensation if the accident was not your fault.

To find out more about filing a personal injury claim, you may want to contact Jefferies Claims. We work with personal injury lawyers who operate on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis and who can assess whether your case is valid.

The Top 7 Risks for Wind Farm and Turbine Accidents

Wind farms present a unique set of hazards due to various factors. This may include their remote locations, tall structures, and heavy machinery. Here are some of the most common types of accidents that can happen:

1. Falls from Height

The average height for wind turbine towers is between 200 – 400 feet (60 to 120 metres). Technicians may often need to climb to perform maintenance or inspections. Unfortunately falls from height are one of the leading causes of serious injuries and fatalities in this industry

2. Electrical Systems

Wind turbines generate large amounts of electricity. If safety protocols fail or equipment is faulty, working with or near electrical systems can result in electric shocks, arc flashes, and potentially even electrocution.

3. Falling Objects

Tools or equipment falling from above can cause head injuries or trauma. Workers on the ground or lower levels of the turbine are at risk if proper securing procedures have not been followed.

4. Confined Space Accidents

Space is limited inside a wind turbine. As a result, these confined spaces can pose risks of asphyxiation, entrapment, or exposure to hazardous substances such as hydraulic fluids or chemicals.

5. Mechanical Failures and Equipment Malfunctions

Blade failure, gearbox malfunction, or crane accidents during installation or maintenance may possibly cause crushing injuries.

 

6. Weather-Related Hazards

Wind farms are often located in remote or elevated areas with unpredictable weather. In particular, offshore platforms face high winds, rough seas, and lightning, all of which increase the risk of slips, trips, and falls.

7. Fires and Explosions

While rare, electrical faults and overheating components can lead to fires inside turbines. If flammable materials are present, explosions may occur which may cause  severe injuries.

Offshore vs. Onshore Wind Farm Hazards

Both environments carry risks, but offshore wind farms may often present additional dangers.

Offshore Wind Farm Accidents:

• Helicopter or boat transfer incidents
• Drowning risks
• Severe isolation and delayed emergency response
• Corrosion or equipment wear due to saltwater exposure
• Weather delays impacting rescue operations

Onshore Wind Farm Accidents:

• Vehicle collisions on rural access roads
• Encounters with wildlife or harsh terrain
• Electrical grid accidents during land-based installations

Whether you’re working in a mountainous region in Scotland or off the coast of the North Sea, the risks of wind farm operations are ever-present.

Who Is Most at Risk?

Several job roles are especially vulnerable to potential injuries happening on wind farms:

• Wind turbine technicians
• Electrical engineers
• Construction crews
• Maintenance personnel
• Crane and heavy machinery operators
• Marine transportation staff (offshore)

Employers are legally obligated to ensure these workers are protected by safety procedures, regular training, and compliant equipment. Should they fail to meet these obligations and an accident occurs, you may be eligible to file a personal injury claim.

When Can You File a Personal Injury Claim?

If you were injured while working on a wind farm and the accident was not your fault, you may be entitled to file a claim for compensation. Check the following criteria:

Accident Caused by Employer Negligence

Examples include:

• Lack of proper training
• Inadequate safety equipment
• Failure to maintain machinery
• Violations of health and safety regulations

Accident Due to Faulty Equipment

If defective tools, harnesses, or turbines caused your injury, liability may rest with either your employer or the manufacturer of the equipment.

Injury Caused by a Third Party

If a subcontractor or another company operating on the site contributed to your injury through negligence, you may be able to claim against them.

Whether it’s a spinal injury, burns or amputation, long-term injuries may increase your entitlement to compensation.

What Can You Claim For?

If your personal injury claim is successful, you could receive compensation for:

• Medical expenses (current and future)
• Loss of earnings
• Pain and suffering
• Loss of future earning potential
• Rehabilitation and therapy costs
• Travel expenses related to your injury

As each case is different, your solicitor will be able to advise on potential compensation for your claim.

You typically have three years from the date of the accident, or the date you became aware of your injury, to file a claim.

How to File a Personal Injury Claim

Report the Accident Immediately

Inform your site supervisor or manager.

Ensure the incident is recorded in the company’s accident book.

Seek Medical Attention

Even if the injury seems minor, a professional evaluation is crucial evidence for your claim.

Document Everything

Take photos, gather witness statements, and keep all medical records and correspondence.

Get In Touch

It’s crucial to seek legal advice to have your potential claim assessed by expert lawyers. Workplace injury claims, especially those involving machinery, can be complex. We work with lawyers who operate on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis and we can guide you through making a claim.

To discuss your potential claim in confidence, contact our friendly team at Jefferies Claims on 0333 358 3034. Alternatively, complete our online contact form to arrange a free, no-obligation consultation.