Why More People Are Seeking Legal Help for Workplace Injuries
There is a rising trend in the UK of employees seeking legal assistance for workplace injuries. There are numerous factors that are influencing this, including rising incidences of workplace injuries, greater awareness of workers’ rights, economic pressures, and evolving legal obligations for employers. This post will explore these factors and why so many people are seeking legal help.
Rising Incidence of Workplace Injuries
Recent data shows a notable increase in workplace injuries across the UK. According to the Health & Safety Executive (HSE), 604,000 workers self-reported non-fatal injuries in 2023/24, which was a rise from previous years. This increase is influenced by factors such as the return to post-pandemic work routines and improved reporting mechanisms. As workplace accidents become more visible, more employees are taking legal action against negligent employers.
Increased Awareness of Employee Rights
Workers today are more informed about their legal rights concerning workplace safety and compensation than ever before. High-profile cases involving household name companies like Amazon and major UK retailers have drawn attention to employer negligence and unsafe working conditions. Media coverage and workplace campaigns have empowered employees to challenge unsafe practices and pursue legal action for injuries caused by employer failings.
Economic Pressures & Compensation Pursuits
The UK’s rising cost of living has made financial compensation for workplace injuries more urgent for employees. Many workers face lost wages due to time off work following an accident, making legal claims a crucial source of financial support in these circumstances. This trend is reflected in the increase in employment liability claims, which reached 44,547 in 2023/24, up from 43,728 in the previous year. Given these financial pressures, many injured workers are turning to no-win no-fee solicitors to pursue claims without the burden of upfront legal fees.
Evolving Landscape & Employer Responsibilities
New UK workplace safety laws are increasing employer responsibilities, leading to more claims against businesses that fail to meet safety standards. For instance, from October 2024, employers are legally required to take proactive steps to prevent sexual harassment, highlighting a shift toward greater workplace protection and accountability. Such regulatory changes demonstrate the growing legal focus on employee welfare, reinforcing the necessity for businesses to review their risk management practices to avoid claims.
These are the main factors that are driving the increase in UK workers seeking legal assistance for workplace injuries. There is a perfect storm with an increase in injuries at work, an increased awareness of employee rights, economic pressures, and evolving workplace safety laws that are leading to more workplace injury claims and workers seeking legal advice to help them navigate these cases.
