Lifting
Accident Claims
If you have sustained an injury as a result of lifting
a heavy object or objects during the course of your employment, within
the last three years, then you may be entitled to make a claim for damages
for compensation against your Employer. The law relating to this type
of accident claim is found within the Manual Handling Regulations and
is enshrined in European law.
TYPES OF LIFTING ACCIDENT
· Accidents at work
Lifting accidents commonly occur when an Employee is asked to lift an
object which is too heavy. The guideline issued for weight limits is 25kg.
If you have been caused to lift an object heavier than that and you have
sustained injury as a direct result, then it is possible for you to pursue
a claim for damages for compensation, by virtue of your Employer’s
breach of statutory duty.
· Workplace Accidents
Workplace accidents also occur when an employee is required to lift heavy
objects as a routine part of their job, but has not been shown how to
do this safely. If no training has been given then this may be sufficient
grounds for a claim for compensation.
· Industrial Accidents
Accidents and injuries involving lifting occur throughout all industries.
Accidents occur when no mechanical assistance is given to employees tasked
with lifting and moving heavy objects. Further, if any employee is asked
to move items when in fact it is more appropriate for this task to be
done by two or more persons then this in itself may be grounds for a compensation
claim.
TYPES OF LIFTING ACCIDENT INJURIES
Shoulder Injuries
- Fractured shoulder
More usually known as a broken shoulder. These range from serious displaced
fractures requiring surgical intervention to less serious hairline breaks.
Generally these are treated with a plaster cast and back slab. Recovery
can take between six to twelve weeks and it is possible that the individual
may be left with some residual disability.
- Sprained shoulder
Commonly known as soft tissue or ligament injuries. As with all injuries
the symptoms vary from person to person and damages will be assessed individually
depending on any residual symptoms that may exist.
Back Injuries
- Upper back injury
The range and consequences of an upper back injury are vast and each claim
will be treated on an individual basis. Awards of compensation differ
significantly from claim to claim and will be assessed based upon the
nature of the back injury and any associated problems that may arise.
- Lower back injury
The range and consequences of a lower back injury are vast and each claim
will be treated on an individual basis. Awards of compensation differ
significantly from claim to claim and will be assessed based upon the
nature of the back injury and any associated problems that may arise.
Arm Injuries
- Fractured arm
More usually known as a broken arm. These range from serious displaced
fractures requiring surgical intervention to less serious hairline breaks.
Generally these are treated with a plaster cast and back slab. Recovery
can take between six to twelve weeks and it is possible that the individual
may be left with some residual disability.
- Sprained arm
Commonly known as soft tissue or ligament injuries. As with all injuries
the symptoms vary from person to person and damages will be assessed individually
depending on any residual symptoms that may exist.
If you have been involved in an accident which has caused
you an injury as a result of lifting heavy objects in the workplace, please
complete the Claim Assessment Form. One of our specialist claims solicitors
will contact you to discuss your claim. Please note that all our solicitors
act on a strictly ‘no-win, no-fee’ basis and that the legal
advice is effectively given for free.

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