An accident at work can happen in seconds, but the consequences can last a lifetime. Whether you work in construction, retail, hospitality, manufacturing, or an office environment, you have the right to work in a safe and protected setting. Unfortunately, despite regulations and training, work accidents still happen across Glastonbury and the wider Somerset area.
At Marley Solicitors, we offer dedicated legal advice for individuals in Glastonbury who have suffered injuries in the workplace. We understand the complexity and emotional toll of work-related injuries, and we are here to help you recover the compensation you deserve.
Your legal rights after a workplace accident
Employers in the UK have a legal obligation to protect their employees from harm. Under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974, businesses must ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, the health, safety and welfare of all employees. This includes:
- Conducting proper risk assessments
- Providing health and safety training
- Supplying personal protective equipment (PPE)
- Maintaining machinery and workplace infrastructure
- Implementing policies for emergency procedures and incident reporting
If an employer fails in any of these duties and you are injured as a result, you may be entitled to claim compensation. This applies whether you are employed full-time, part-time, or on a temporary or zero-hours contract. In some cases, self-employed contractors may also be eligible, depending on the circumstances.
Common workplace accidents in Glastonbury
Glastonbury is a culturally rich and economically diverse area. From historic landmarks to thriving tourism and retail sectors, the town supports a wide range of occupations. Each type of work presents different health and safety challenges, and we have experience handling claims across many industries.
Some of the most common workplace accidents in Glastonbury include:
- Manual handling injuries: These often affect workers in warehouses, retail, and construction. Back strains, sprains, and slipped discs can result from lifting heavy items without training or equipment.
- Slips, trips and falls: Whether caused by wet floors, uneven surfaces, or poor lighting, these are among the most frequent causes of injuries in hospitality and public-facing businesses.
- Falls from height: Common in the building trades, these can lead to catastrophic injuries. Employers must provide scaffolding, guardrails, and harnesses where required.
- Machinery and equipment accidents: Poorly maintained or unguarded machinery can lead to crushed limbs, amputations or serious lacerations.
- Exposure to hazardous substances: Chemical exposure in cleaning, agriculture or manufacturing can cause long-term health issues, including respiratory damage and skin conditions.
- Stress-related illness or psychological injury: In some roles, such as healthcare or emergency services, chronic stress or workplace bullying can result in psychological harm. In these cases, employers must have policies to protect mental wellbeing.
What should I do after a work accident in Glastonbury?
Taking the right steps after a workplace accident can strengthen your claim and ensure you get the right support. If you are injured at work in Glastonbury, you should:
- Report the accident to your employer immediately and make sure it is recorded in the accident book.
- Seek medical attention from your GP or visit a nearby medical facility such as Glastonbury Health Centre or West Mendip Community Hospital.
- Take photographs of the scene and your injuries, if possible.
- Gather witness details from any colleagues or bystanders.
- Keep a record of all related costs and the impact on your daily life.
Once these steps are taken, you should speak to a legal expert as soon as possible to assess your eligibility for a claim.
Making a work accident claim: The process
Marley Solicitors offers a clear and supportive claims process designed to reduce stress while achieving the best outcome. Here’s what you can expect:
Step 1: Free initial consultation
We offer a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your case. Our legal team will listen to your story, review your evidence, and offer honest advice about your options.
Step 2: Investigating your case
If we take on your case, we will gather further evidence, including accident reports, medical records, expert opinions, and witness statements. We may also consult occupational safety professionals to strengthen your case.
Step 3: Medical examination
You may be referred for an independent medical assessment. This report will detail the nature and severity of your injuries, your prognosis, and the long-term effects on your ability to work.
Step 4: Calculating your compensation
We will calculate a fair value for your claim, based on general damages (for pain and suffering) and special damages (for financial losses).
Step 5: Negotiation and settlement
We will negotiate directly with the employer’s insurance provider. Many claims are settled out of court, but if necessary, we will take your case to court to secure a fair outcome.
Local healthcare support in Glastonbury
Having access to the right medical care is an essential part of your recovery and your legal claim. We work closely with professionals at local facilities such as:
- Glastonbury Health Centre, Feversham Lane
- West Mendip Community Hospital, Glastonbury Road
- Wells Health Centre, Priory Health Park
We also liaise with the Somerset NHS Foundation Trust, which provides community health services across the region. This connection allows us to request records and expert statements that can help support your claim.
No win, no fee representation
We understand that financial concerns often discourage people from making a claim. At Marley Solicitors, we offer a no win, no fee arrangement. You will not have to pay any legal fees unless your claim is successful.
This funding model ensures access to justice without the risk of upfront legal costs. If your claim succeeds, our fee is taken as a percentage of your compensation, which we will explain in full before we begin working on your case.
What can I claim compensation for?
Workplace injury compensation aims to return you, as far as possible, to the position you were in before the accident. The settlement may include:
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of past and future earnings
- Medical treatment (including physiotherapy, surgery or counselling)
- Travel expenses related to medical appointments
- Equipment or home modifications
- Care and assistance at home
- Impact on your quality of life or hobbies
Time limits for bringing a claim
In the UK, you usually have three years from the date of the accident, or from the date you became aware of your injury, to start a claim. There are some exceptions:
- If the injured person is under 18, the three-year time limit begins on their 18th birthday.
- For individuals lacking mental capacity, there may be no time limit unless capacity is regained.
Because of these strict limits, we recommend speaking to our legal team as soon as possible.
The impact of your injury on your future
Workplace accidents can have long-term consequences. You may not be able to return to your previous job or any employment at all. This can affect your financial security, personal independence, and mental wellbeing.
We work to ensure that any settlement reflects not just your current needs but your future care, retraining, and living expenses. This is especially important in serious injury cases, such as:
- Brain injuries
- Spinal injuries
- Amputations
- Chronic pain or complex regional pain syndrome
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
FAQs
Can I claim for a workplace injury in Glastonbury if I am self-employed?
You may still be able to claim compensation if someone else’s negligence caused your injury. For example, if you were working as a subcontractor on a construction site and the main contractor failed to provide a safe working environment, you could be eligible.
How much compensation can I get for a work-related back injury in Glastonbury?
Compensation amounts vary depending on the severity of the injury, your recovery prospects, and how it affects your ability to work. Minor back injuries may result in awards of several thousand pounds, while serious injuries affecting mobility can attract settlements of tens or even hundreds of thousands of pounds.
Contact Marley Solicitors for expert advice in Glastonbury
If you have suffered an injury at work in Glastonbury, you do not have to face the legal process alone. Marley Solicitors is committed to helping you access the compensation you are entitled to, with sensitivity, experience and local understanding.
Our team of personal injury solicitors can provide a free consultation, guide you through the claims process, and support you with a no win, no fee agreement.
Contact Marley Solicitors today and take the first step toward justice and financial recovery.
