Coping and Healing: A guide to Rebuilding your life After an Accident
Written by Jess Dawkins.
From forklifts in warehouses through to factory conveyor belts and diggers on construction sites, heavy machinery keeps many UK industries moving. However, this essential equipment also comes with serious risks. You could end up with lasting injuries and financial worries. That’s why it’s important to know your legal rights after a machinery injury. Here’s a quick guide on navigating the accident claims process and what to expect at each stage – it can not only help you protect your rights but also speed up your physical and financial recovery.
Your first steps after a heavy machinery injury
After a machinery accident, safety comes first, so get medical attention immediately. Once you’re safe, begin gathering evidence. Take clear photos of the machinery, your injuries, and the surrounding area. If there were witnesses, get their names and contact details. Report the incident to your supervisor in writing (an email or letter) and request a copy of the report for your records. If the injury is serious enough to meet RIDDOR (Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations) criteria, your employer must notify the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). These steps help establish liability and create a solid foundation for your claim.
How medical assessments work in accident claims
Your solicitor will arrange an independent medical assessment with a doctor who has no prior involvement in your care. This isn’t just another GP visit – it’s specifically designed to evaluate your injuries for legal purposes. The doctor will ask detailed questions about the accident, your symptoms, and how they affect daily life. They may also perform physical tests and review scans or medical notes. If they suggest ‘waiting out prognosis, it means delaying final assessment until the full recovery timeline is clear.
How to review and challenge a medico-legal report
You have the right to see the report before it’s sent along to the insurer. Take advantage of the opportunity by scrutinising it for factual mistakes such as incorrect dates, names, or missing symptoms. If you find any errors, tell your solicitor immediately. You might also disagree with the severity rating or prognosis, but it can be trickier to change this. Still, don’t be shy about raising your concerns early since you might be able to get a second medical opinion.
From medical report to settlement: Offers and negotiations
When the report is finalised, the insurer will make an offer. Your solicitor will negotiate to ensure it fully reflects the real impact that the injury had upon your life, including lost wages and future care needs. If liability over an accident at work is disputed, negotiations may stall, and court proceedings could follow. Recent Official Injury Claim portal data shows the average time from selecting a medical expert to receiving the report is about 29 days.
Protect your future after a workplace injury
It can be overwhelming to deal with the aftermath of a machinery accident, but you’ll feel more confident and in control if you know exactly what to expect at each stage. By acting quickly, preserving evidence, and making full use of your rights during the medical and negotiation stages, you can improve your chances of securing fair compensation.
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