Workplace accidents

Your employer has what’s called a duty of care — and it’s a strict one. This means your employer must ensure that:

• The working environment is safe
• You receive protective clothing and equipment when necessary
• The materials, machines, and tools you work with are safe
• You receive clear instructions on how to use those materials and machines
• Machines are regularly inspected and maintained
• Employees are encouraged and monitored to follow safety instructions
• You are warned about dangerous situations (for example, a wet floor)

Of course, you also have your own responsibility. Suppose your employer provides you with safety goggles, but you decide not to wear them — and you get sparks in your eyes while welding. In that case, your employer cannot be held liable.

After a workplace accident, it’s therefore important to first determine whether you followed the safety instructions. However, it’s the employer’s responsibility to prove that you:

• Acted intentionally or recklessly, or
• Ignored the instructions, even though they did everything reasonably possible to provide a safe working environment.

As an employee, the last thing you want is conflict with your employer. You may still be working there — or planning to return once you’ve recovered. And of course, your colleagues still work there too, so you don’t want any tension. Still, you want to receive the compensation you’re entitled to. Or perhaps you’ve noticed your employer hesitating to report the accident to the Labour Inspectorate. Now you want someone to stand up for you — and for the safety of your colleagues.

The good news is that most employers are insured for these kinds of accidents. This means your case will be handled directly with the insurer, without affecting your employer personally.

Many people think of a workplace accident as a fall from scaffolding or an incident involving a saw machine. But workplace accidents can happen in many other situations, for example:

• A mistake made by a colleague
• A traffic accident that occurred during working hours (not while commuting)
• Burnout caused solely by work-related conditions
• An accident during a company outing

When you’re injured in a workplace accident, a lot comes your way. In addition to the physical and emotional impact, the financial consequences can be significant — especially if the accident leaves you temporarily or permanently unable to work. You may lose part of your income while your expenses increase. Fortunately, in many cases, you’re entitled to compensation.

This compensation is meant to cover the costs you incur as a result of the accident — such as medical expenses, lost income, and costs related to recovery and rehabilitation. Even in cases of long-term incapacity for work, you can claim damages for things like loss of future income or pension contributions.

It’s important to know that you don’t have to go through this process alone. Our personal injury specialists are here to help you claim the compensation you’re entitled to. They collect all the necessary documentation and negotiate with your employer’s insurer on your behalf — so you can focus on what truly matters: your recovery. With the right support, we make sure the financial burden of the accident doesn’t fall on your shoulders.