Employees reluctant to make personal injury claims according to new research
A new study by The Association of Personal Injury Lawyers (APIL) has revealed that more than a quarter of employees injured at work wouldn't consider making a claim against their employer.
Despite HSE statistics revealing that around 120,000 people suffer illness or injuries at work each year in the UK, a recent study by APIL suggests that more than 25% wouldn't make a personal injury claim against their employer.
The research, which was commissioned by APIL and undertaken by independent market research specialists Opinion Matters, surveyed 1,150 adults who had suffered an injury or illness at work. As well as determining their willingness or unwillingness to take out a personal injury claim against their employers, the study also looked at the reasons why this might be so.
APIL President Muiris Lyons explains:
"A large number of people are injured while at work through no fault of their own, yet many of these people are very hesitant in making negligence claims against their employers."
"The main reason for this - according to the surveyed participants - is that there is generally some sort of relationship or understanding between a worker and his boss, especially if they've worked together for some time. The idea of making a claim for negligence against someone you know in this way with is often an uncomfortable one – something which makes people feel embarrassed or awkward."
Some participants also admitted fearing being branded a trouble-maker or losing their job as a result of filing a claim against their employer. Others were worried that they'd be seen to be taking advantage of the fact that they'd been injured to 'cash in'.
Director of leading independent personal injury specialist 1st Stop Claims Company Gary Hillman echoed the thoughts of many in the industry in expressing his concerns about the report's findings:
"The research gives us a great insight into what people are thinking and feeling when they've been injured at work and it's just a pity that so many people feel unable to seek justice. It's often a difficult decision to decide to pursue a claim against your employer – granted - but in many cases it's absolutely the right thing to do. If you've been injured in an accident which your employer could've prevented, they should be called to account. This not only ensures you get the justice you deserve, it also stops the same thing happening to someone else in future."
If you've been injured at work - why not contact one of our independent personal injury specialists today? We may be able to help you secure compensation ranging from a small sum to many thousands of pounds, as well as giving you advice about how to deal sensitively with your employer. Call us free today on 0800 9171 446.
Article from articlesbase.com
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