Claim for a Broken Hand at Work Due to Unsafe Conditions

Written by Tanya Waterworth, Digital Content Writer

About Our Legal Expert: This content is produced with oversight by Michael Jefferies, Managing Director who has over 30 years’ legal experience.

How Much Compensation Can I Expect?

Breaking your hand at work can cause a major upheaval in your life, but you can claim for a broken hand at work due to unsafe conditions. Legally, employers owe a duty of care towards their staff, which means if you are injured at work and it wasn’t your fault, employer negligence may well have caused the accident. This may include factors such as poor lighting, wet floors or equipment which has not been maintained.

So, if you have been injured on the job through no fault of your own, you may be entitled to file a personal injury claim for compensation.

What Are Unsafe Conditions at Work?

Unsafe conditions in the workplace refer to any environment, equipment, or practice which can put employees at risk of injury or illness. For example:

• Faulty or poorly maintained machinery,
• Cluttered or slippery floors,
• Lack of protective equipment,
• Inadequate lighting,
• Insufficient training on handling tools or hazardous materials.

How Can You Break Your Hand at Work?

Employers are required to provide a safe working environment under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974. Employers must:

• Train and supervise staff properly
• Provide suitable safety equipment
• Maintain safe systems of work
• Conduct regular risk assessments

If your employer fails to meet these duties and you break your hand, you may file a claim for compensation.

Hand injuries may occur due to:

• Faulty machinery or equipment
• Slippery or cluttered workspaces
• Lack of protective gloves or safety gear
• Insufficient training for handling tools or machinery

Take Immediate Steps To File a Claim

Taking the right steps after your injury can protect your health and strengthen your claim.

1. Seek Medical Attention
   Get a GP or accident and emergency department to treat your injury. Medical records serve as key evidence for your claim.
2. Report the Incident
   Inform your employer immediately and make sure it’s recorded in the workplace accident book, creating an official record.
3. Document the Scene
   Take photos of unsafe conditions, faulty equipment, or hazards. Collect witness statements from colleagues if possible.
4. Keep Records of Financial Losses
   Save receipts for lost wages, medical bills, travel expenses, and other costs related to your injury.

What Compensation Can I Claim?

You can claim compensation if unsafe conditions caused your broken hand. Your personal injury lawyer can provide you with an estimate of possible compensation regarding your claim.

Key Factors That Affect Your Claim

• Negligence: Show your employer failed in their duty of care.
• Causation: Prove the unsafe condition directly caused your injury.
• Timing: File your claim within three years of the injury.

Types of Compensation

1. General Damages
Receive compensation for physical pain and suffering, reduced mobility, and emotional distress.

2. Special Damages
This covers financial losses such as:

• Lost wages
• Medical expenses (including physiotherapy)
• Travel costs for treatment
• Home adjustments if necessary

Quick Guide to File Your Personal Injury Claim for a Broken Hand

Follow these steps to file a workplace hand injury claim:

Step 1: Consult a Specialist Solicitor

We partner with solicitors offer no win, no fee agreements, so you pay nothing unless your claim succeeds. They are highly experienced in work injury claims and will seek maximum compensation for you.

Step 2: Gather Evidence

Your solicitor will help you collect evidence, including:

• Medical reports
• Accident reports
• Witness statements
• Photos of unsafe conditions

Step 3: Submit Your Claim

Your solicitor will send a formal claim to your employer’s insurance company. In many cases, insurers settle out of court, but some claims require litigation.

Step 4: Negotiate Compensation

Once liability is clear, your solicitor will maximise your compensation which typically covers general and special damages.

Step 5: Court Proceedings (If Needed)

If negotiations fail, your case may go to court. However, most UK claims settle without a trial.

How Long Will It Take to Receive Compensation?

The time frame depends on injury severity and case complexity. Simple claims may settle in a few months. Complex cases that need detailed medical evidence can take a year or more.

Promptly reporting the injury and documenting all evidence helps speed up the process, as well as improving your chances of a successful claim.

FAQs on Claims for a Broken Hand at Work

1. What if My Employer Denies Liability?

Your solicitor can present strong evidence of negligence, including medical reports, accident records, and witness statements.

2. Can I claim if I’m an agency worker or self-employed?

Yes. Agency workers, contractors, and even the self-employed can claim compensation if the company they work for failed to provide a safe working environment. The duty of care applies to anyone carrying out work on-site, not just permanent employees

3. Will Claiming Affect My Job?

Your employer cannot retaliate for filing a claim. If they do, you may have additional legal remedies.

4. Do I Need a Lawyer?

It’s not compulsory, but a solicitor specialising in workplace injuries increases your chance of full compensation. They are also experienced at handling negotiations with insurers. Their role allows you to concentrate on your recovery.

Key Takeaways

• Employers must maintain safe workplaces for their staff.
• You can claim compensation if unsafe conditions caused a broken hand.
• Document the incident, report it, and seek medical attention immediately.
• Specialist solicitors maximise compensation and handle insurance negotiations.
• There is a strict three year time limit from the date of the injury to start your claim.

Start Your Claim for Compensation

If you believe your injury was caused by someone else’s negligence, it’s vital to speak to a qualified personal injury solicitor as soon as possible to explore your options.

At Jefferies Claims, we will guide you through the claims process. We partner with experienced lawyers who will assess all aspects of your case and who work on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis.

Contact us today at 0333 358 3034 or complete our online contact form to arrange an initial no-obligation telephone consultation.