Scottish Claims

Accident at Work Claims Glasgow & Scotland

Injured at work in Scotland? Your employer has a legal duty to keep you safe. Find out about workplace injury compensation, employer liability, and how to make a claim.

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Can I make a workplace accident claim in Scotland?

You may be able to claim workplace injury compensation in Scotland if your employer (or another party) was negligent or breached their statutory duties, and this caused your injury.

You could have a claim if:

  • Your employer failed to provide a safe working environment
  • You weren't given proper training or safety equipment
  • Faulty equipment or machinery caused your injury
  • A colleague's negligence injured you (employer is vicariously liable)
  • You developed an industrial disease due to workplace conditions

Important: Making a claim won't affect your employment rights. It's illegal for employers to dismiss or victimise you for making a legitimate injury claim.

What are my employer's legal duties?

Under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 and associated regulations, Scottish employers must:

Provide a safe workplace

Safe premises, equipment, and systems of work. Regular maintenance and hazard assessments.

Conduct risk assessments

Identify hazards, assess risks, and implement control measures. Review regularly.

Provide training and supervision

Adequate training for tasks, especially when using machinery or hazardous substances.

Supply PPE (Personal Protective Equipment)

Free provision and maintenance of necessary safety equipment.

Report certain accidents (RIDDOR)

Serious injuries must be reported to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).

Common types of workplace accidents in Scotland

Slips, trips and falls

Wet floors, uneven surfaces, poor lighting, trailing cables. Common in offices, retail, hospitality.

Manual handling injuries

Back injuries, strains and sprains from lifting, carrying, pushing heavy objects. Common in warehouses, care work, construction.

Falls from height

Ladder accidents, scaffolding falls, roof work incidents. Particularly common in construction in Glasgow and across Scotland.

Machinery and equipment accidents

Crush injuries, amputations, lacerations from industrial machinery. Manufacturing and engineering sectors.

Vehicle accidents at work

Forklift incidents, delivery driver accidents, being struck by vehicles in yards or warehouses.

Industrial diseases

Asbestosis, occupational deafness, vibration white finger, dermatitis, respiratory conditions from workplace exposure.

What should I do after an accident at work?

1. Get medical attention

See a doctor or visit A&E. Keep records of all treatment and prescriptions.

2. Report the accident

Report to your employer and ensure it's recorded in the accident book. Get a copy if possible.

3. Gather evidence

Take photographs of the accident scene, your injuries, any defective equipment. Get witness names and contact details.

4. Keep records

Note dates, times, what happened, who was present. Keep receipts for any expenses (travel, medication, etc.).

5. Seek legal advice

Contact us for a free case review - we'll connect you with an FCA-authorised firm who can assess your claim.

How the claims process works

Step 1: Free case assessment

Complete our form and we'll introduce you to an FCA-authorised firm who will review your case for free.

Step 2: Investigation

Your solicitor gathers evidence - accident book entries, witness statements, CCTV, HSE reports if applicable.

Step 3: Medical evidence

You'll be examined by an independent medical expert who provides a report on your injuries and prognosis.

Step 4: Pre-Action Protocol

Scotland's CPAP process requires formal notification to the employer's insurer before court.

Step 5: Negotiation and settlement

Most workplace claims settle without going to court. If not, your case proceeds to the Sheriff Court.

Time limits for workplace injury claims

In Scotland, you generally have 3 years from the date of your accident to start court proceedings for a workplace injury claim.

Special circumstances:

  • Industrial diseases: 3 years from when you first became aware the condition was work-related (date of knowledge).
  • Under 16 at time of accident: 3 years from your 16th birthday.
  • Mental incapacity: Time limits may be suspended.

Don't delay: Evidence disappears, witnesses leave, CCTV is deleted. Start your claim as soon as possible.

What compensation can I claim?

General damages

Compensation for pain, suffering, and loss of amenity. Amounts depend on injury severity - from a few thousand pounds for minor injuries to hundreds of thousands for life-changing injuries.

Lost earnings

Past earnings you've missed due to time off work. Future earnings if your injury affects your ability to work.

Medical expenses

Private treatment, physiotherapy, medication, counselling, mobility aids.

Care and assistance

If family members have helped care for you during recovery, this can be claimed even if unpaid.

Travel expenses

Costs of getting to medical appointments, treatment sessions, or related meetings.

Related guides

Learn more about personal injury claims in Scotland:

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I claim for an accident at work if it was partly my fault?

Yes. Your compensation may be reduced to reflect your share of responsibility (contributory negligence), but you can still claim if your employer was also at fault.

Will I lose my job if I make a workplace injury claim?

No. It's illegal for employers to dismiss or victimise you for making a legitimate injury claim. Claims are handled through employer's liability insurance, not paid by the employer directly.

How long do workplace accident claims take in Scotland?

Simple claims where liability is accepted can settle in 6-12 months. Disputed claims or those involving serious injuries may take 18-24 months or longer.

Can I claim for an industrial disease in Scotland?

Yes. Conditions like asbestosis, occupational deafness, or vibration white finger can be claimed. The 3-year time limit runs from when you first knew the condition was work-related.

What if my employer doesn't have insurance?

Employers are legally required to have employer's liability insurance. If they don't, you may still be able to claim through the Employers' Liability Tracing Office or other schemes.

Can agency workers claim for workplace accidents?

Yes. Both the agency and the company where you were working may owe you a duty of care. Claims can be brought against whichever party was responsible for the unsafe conditions.

⚠️ We are not a law firm or a Claims Management Company. We only introduce you, with consent, to FCA-authorised firms who may advise on your claim.