Top 10 FAQs For Contractors Injured On The Job

How To File A Personal Injury Claim

 

If you’re a contractor and have been injured while working on-site, here are the top 10 FAQs for contractors injured on the job. This list provides essential how-to information when it comes to claiming compensation.

Whether you’re a self-employed tradesman, agency worker or subcontractor, you have the right to a safe working environment. Injuries may not only result in pain and suffering but also lost income and financial stress.

So, if you have been injured due to another party’s negligence while working, you may be entitled to seek compensation and Jefferies Claims can help.

 

Top 10 FAQs For Contractors Who Have Been Injured

1. Can Contractors Make a Personal Injury Claim?

Yes. Contractors can make a personal injury claim if they are injured due to someone else’s negligence. Even though you’re not classified as an employee, you still have legal protections under health and safety laws.

If a site manager, employer, or third party failed to provide a safe working environment, you may have grounds to claim compensation.

2. What Kind of Injuries Are Covered Under Contractor Injury Claims?

Contractor personal injury claims may cover a wide range of injuries, including:

• Falls from height
• Slips, trips, and falls
• Electric shocks
• Cuts and lacerations from tools
• Broken bones
• Head injuries
• Back and spinal injuries
• Repetitive strain injuries

If your injury occurred due to unsafe practices, defective equipment, or lack of training, you might be eligible to claim compensation for a workplace injury.

 

3. Who Can Be Held Responsible for a Contractor’s Injury on Site?

Liability for a contractor’s injury depends on the specifics of the incident. The following parties could be held responsible:

• Site owners or occupiers
• Main contractors or subcontractors
• Employers (if you’re working under a fixed-term contract)
• Equipment suppliers or manufacturers

Even if you’re self-employed, if your injury was caused by someone else’s negligence, you may be able to hold them to account.

4. What Should You Do Immediately After Being Injured on the Job?

As a contractor, taking the right steps after a workplace accident is crucial. Here’s what to do:

1. Seek medical attention – Your health should always come first.
2. Report the injury – Notify the site supervisor or main contractor.
3. Detail the incident – Take photos, gather witness statements, and make notes.
4. Record in the accident book – All construction sites should have such a book.
5. Contact a personal injury solicitor – Get expert legal advice quickly as evidence is easier to gather than later on.

5. Is There A Time Limit To Make A Contractor Injury Claim?

Yes. you generally have three years from the date of the accident to start a personal injury claim. There are exceptions for those under 18 or those lacking mental capacity,

6. What Evidence Do I Need to Support My Injury Claim?

To successfully claim compensation as a contractor, you will need to obtain evidence such as:

• Medical reports and treatment records
• Witness statements
• Photographs of the accident scene or injuries
• Accident report entries
• CCTV footage (if available)
• Employment or contract documents

Your solicitor will help gather and present this evidence.

7. How Much Compensation Can I Receive for a Contractor Injury?

Compensation depends on the severity of the injury, recovery time, impact on your life, and financial losses. You may be entitled to:

• General damages: For pain and suffering
• Special damages: For loss of earnings, travel expenses, medical bills, and ongoing care

For example, a serious back injury could result in substantial compensation, especially if it prevents you from returning to work.

8. Can I Claim If I’m a Self-Employed Contractor?

Yes. Self-employed contractors can still claim for injuries if the accident was caused by another party’s negligence. Even if you’re not directly employed, health and safety regulations apply to all personnel on a job site.

9. Will Making a Claim Affect My Contract or Future Work?

Legally, you cannot be penalised for making a legitimate personal injury claim. However, in practice, many contractors fear being “blacklisted.” So, working with a solicitor can ensure that your claim is handled professionally and discreetly.

It’s important to remember employers and site managers have a duty of care.

10. Do I Need a Solicitor to Make a Personal Injury Claim?

While you can file a claim yourself, it can be complex. Finding a personal injury solicitor to assist you greatly increases your chances of success. An experienced solicitor will:

• Evaluate your case
• Handle paperwork and negotiations
• Represent you in court (if needed)
• Work on a No Win, No Fee basis

This means you don’t pay unless your claim is successful, reducing your financial risk.

 

Need Legal Advice?

We specialise in personal injury claims for contractors. If you’ve been injured on-site, it’s crucial to understand your rights and seek professional advice quickly.

We work with lawyers who operate on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis, so there’s no upfront cost or financial risk. At Jefferies Claims, we’ll guide you through every step of your claim.

📞 Call us: 0333 358 3034
📧 Email us: info@jefferiesclaims.co.uk
📝 Online: Complete our online form for a free, no-obligation consultation with one of our friendly team.