Suffering an accident at work can be both physically and emotionally distressing. If you live or work in Wells and have experienced an injury in the workplace, it is important to understand your rights and the legal avenues available to you. At Marley Solicitors, we are proud to provide expert legal support for individuals in Wells who need guidance and assistance when making work accident compensation claims.
This guide will walk you through the essentials of claiming compensation for a work-related injury in Wells, using compensation calculators as an initial reference, and when to seek professional legal help. You will also find localised information relevant to Wells that will support your recovery and claim process.
The importance of workplace safety and employer responsibility
Every employer in Wells, whether they operate a small local business or are part of a larger national firm, has a legal responsibility to provide a safe working environment for their employees. This duty is enshrined in the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and other associated regulations.
Employers are expected to:
- Conduct regular risk assessments
- Provide adequate training for employees
- Maintain equipment and premises in a safe condition
- Offer appropriate protective equipment
- Address and mitigate hazards promptly
When these responsibilities are not fulfilled and someone is injured as a result, the employer may be found liable for negligence.
Common types of workplace accidents in Wells
Wells, with its mix of office-based employment, retail, service industry roles, and light industrial work, sees a variety of workplace incidents. Some of the most common include:
- Slips, trips, and falls: Often caused by wet floors, uneven surfaces, or poor lighting.
- Manual handling injuries: Typically involving lifting heavy objects incorrectly or without proper support.
- Falls from height: Common in construction and maintenance roles.
- Crush injuries or machinery accidents: Found more frequently in industrial or factory settings.
- Exposure to harmful substances: Particularly in agricultural or laboratory environments.
- Stress-related or repetitive strain injuries: Common in office roles where poor ergonomics or long working hours are an issue.
These injuries can vary in severity, but even minor injuries can entitle you to claim if they were caused by your employer’s failure to protect you.
What should I do after an accident at work?
If you are injured at work in Wells, take the following steps to protect your health and strengthen your potential compensation claim:
- Seek medical attention immediately, even for injuries that appear minor.
- Report the incident to your supervisor or manager and ensure it is logged in the workplace accident book.
- Gather evidence, such as photos of the scene, equipment involved, or witness contact details.
- Keep records of all related expenses, medical visits, and time off work.
- Seek legal advice from a specialist solicitor experienced in workplace injury claims.
Understanding compensation: How much can I claim?
Compensation for workplace injuries is not a fixed figure and depends on a range of factors. Broadly, it is divided into:
General damages
These compensate for the pain, suffering, and loss of quality of life caused by the injury. Examples include:
- Physical discomfort
- Emotional trauma
- Impact on hobbies, daily life, and social activities
Special damages
These reimburse actual financial losses incurred as a result of the injury, including:
- Loss of current and future earnings
- Medical expenses (including physiotherapy, prescriptions, private treatment)
- Travel expenses to and from appointments
- Costs of home modifications or care support
Factors that affect the amount of compensation
When calculating your compensation, several key details will be considered:
- The severity and nature of your injury
- Recovery time and prognosis
- The extent to which the injury affects your ability to work
- Whether there are any lasting disabilities
- Out-of-pocket expenses and losses
How a work accident compensation calculator helps
A work accident compensation calculator provides an initial estimate of what you might be entitled to, based on general injury types and Judicial College guidelines. For example, if you suffered a back injury in a fall, you may be given a range based on whether the injury is classified as minor, moderate, or severe.
However, online calculators are only a rough guide. They typically do not account for special damages or the full complexity of a claim. For an accurate and tailored valuation, a consultation with a solicitor is essential.
Why choose Marley Solicitors for your Wells claim?
At Marley Solicitors, we specialise in workplace injury claims across Somerset, including Wells. Our firm is known for its professional, compassionate approach and strong track record of successful outcomes. Here’s why local clients trust us for their injury claims:
Local knowledge, national expertise
Our solicitors have in-depth knowledge of regional employers, local safety regulations, and court procedures relevant to the Wells area. This gives you an advantage when building a compelling case.
Free initial consultation
We offer a no-obligation consultation to review your situation, advise whether you have a valid claim, and explain your options.
No win, no fee service
If we take on your case, you pay nothing unless we win compensation for you. This ensures everyone in Wells can access justice regardless of financial position.
Clear and regular communication
We guide you through every stage of your claim, explaining legal terms in plain English and keeping you informed throughout.
Real-life examples of work injury claims
To give you a better understanding of how claims may proceed, here are some anonymised examples from past cases:
- A retail assistant in Wells slipped on an unmarked wet floor and fractured her wrist. She was awarded £14,000 in general damages, plus £3,500 in lost wages.
- A construction worker fell from scaffolding on a local building site, sustaining head and back injuries. Due to long-term mobility issues and inability to return to his previous role, his total compensation exceeded £65,000.
- A care home worker developed repetitive strain injuries due to lack of manual handling training. She was awarded £8,750 for pain and £2,200 in financial losses.
What is the time limit for making a claim?
In most cases, you have three years from the date of the accident to start legal proceedings. There are some exceptions:
- If the injured person is under 18, the three-year limit begins on their 18th birthday.
- If the person lacks mental capacity, there may be no time limit.
Delaying a claim can weaken your case. It is best to seek legal advice as soon as possible after the incident.
Medical treatment and support services in Wells
Wells is well-equipped with medical and support services to help you recover and gather the necessary documentation for your claim:
- Wells Health Centre: A well-established GP practice offering diagnostics, treatment, and referrals.
- Wells City Practice: Provides a wide range of primary care services, including minor injury support.
- Priory House Clinic: Offers specialist treatment and rehabilitation services through the Somerset NHS Foundation Trust.
- Shepton Mallet NHS Treatment Centre: Located nearby and providing outpatient and diagnostic support.
Having proper documentation from these providers can significantly strengthen your legal claim.
Psychological impact of work-related injuries
Injuries aren’t always just physical. Many people suffer from anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress after a serious workplace accident. These emotional consequences are equally valid and compensable in legal claims.
We work with medical experts who can assess and report on your mental wellbeing, ensuring your claim includes all aspects of the injury.
How long does a compensation claim take?
The duration of a work accident claim varies, depending on the complexity of the case and whether liability is accepted by the employer. Straightforward claims may settle in a few months, while more serious or disputed cases can take a year or more.
Factors affecting the timeline include:
- Medical evidence availability
- Whether the employer admits fault
- The severity of the injury and ongoing recovery
- Court availability (if proceedings become necessary)
At Marley Solicitors, we work proactively to progress your claim as efficiently as possible without compromising on quality.
Frequently asked questions
Can I claim for a repetitive strain injury from working in an office in Wells?
Yes, if your employer failed to provide proper training, equipment, or breaks, and you developed a condition like carpal tunnel syndrome or back pain, you may be eligible to claim compensation.
How much compensation can I get for a fall at work in Wells?
This depends on how badly you were hurt. A minor ankle sprain might attract £1,000–£3,000, while a severe fracture with long-term mobility problems could result in compensation of £20,000 or more, especially if loss of earnings is involved.
Get in touch with Marley Solicitors today
If you’ve had a workplace accident in Wells, don’t delay. Marley Solicitors is here to help you understand your rights, estimate your potential compensation, and fight for the outcome you deserve.
We offer:
- Free, no-obligation consultations
- A no win, no fee service
- Friendly and expert legal guidance
Call our office today to book your free consultation and begin your journey toward justice and compensation. Let us take the stress out of the process so you can focus on your recovery.
