Compensation for a delivery driver in accident at work

Accidents in the workplace are more common than many people think, ranging from minor injuries to serious, life-altering incidents. Whether you work in construction, healthcare, manufacturing, or even an office, it's important to understand your legal rights and the correct steps to take if you're involved in a workplace accident.

Delivery driver accident

In this case our 77 year old client was working as an agency delivery driver to supplement his income when he was hit by timber falling out of the van and he suffered a fractured sternum.

On the day of the incident he was delivering timber to a private address.  The van had been loaded by other members of staff at the timber yard and as our client opened the door of the van a large piece of timber several feet long hit him in the chest.  At the time he felt winded and short of breath but carried on working.  A few days later he attended hospital and was diagnosed with a broken sternum.

“Accidents at work are all too common as often the correct procedures are not followed,” said Michael Talbot, Solicitor and Head of Personal Injury.

“In this case the load was stacked incorrectly, the defendant failed to take adequate care for the safety of our client, failed to devise, institute or operate or ensure the institution or operation of a safe system for loading and unloading supplies.  Neither did they make suitable and sufficient assessment of manual handing operation, nor take steps to reduce the risk of injury contrary to Regulation 4(1)b Manual Handling Operations 1992,” he added.

At the time our client did the correct thing and reported it to the transport manager, but he was not asked to sign an accident book or given any first aid advice.

In this case our personal injury solicitors recovered over £5,000 for the client, it took over 12 weeks for his injuries to heal and for him to recover, he does still have problems enjoying golf, which was a pastime he enjoyed prior to the incident.

Steps to take after an accident at work

1. Report the Incident - Notify your employer or supervisor immediately after an accident.
2. Seek Medical Attention - Even if injuries seem minor, seek medical attention. This helps ensure your health is protected and creates a medical record, which is essential for any potential claim.
3. Document the Scene - If possible, take photographs, collect witness statements, and write down what happened. The more evidence you gather, the stronger your case will be.

“Many accidents at work are caused by poor workplace practices, lack of training, inadequate protective clothing and a workplace that falls below the Health and Safety requirements but business owners do have insurance cover should claims arise. All employers owe a duty of care to their employees and it’s actually a legal obligation under the Health of Safety at Work Act 1974,” added Michael.

What is included in a personal injury claim?

Every incident is different and every client unique but in all cases we will aim to get you appropriate compensation for your physical injuries, pain and suffering, but will also cover:

• loss of earnings, including pensions
• advice on benefits
• interim payments
• care costs
• rehabilitation and physiotherapy
• any travelling expenses
• changes in your ability to work in the future.

Workplace accidents are serious matters with potentially lasting consequences. Understanding your rights and taking the appropriate legal steps ensures you’re protected both medically and financially.

How can we help?

If you have had an accident at work and need legal advice contact our personal injury solicitors on 0161 785 3500 or email enquiries@pearsonlegal.co.uk

Subscribe to our newsletter

Please note that the information and opinions contained in this article are not intended to be comprehensive, nor to provide legal advice. No responsibility for its accuracy or correctness is assumed by Pearson Solicitors and Financial Advisers Ltd or any of its members or employees. Professional legal advice should be obtained before taking, or refraining from taking, any action as a result of this article.