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Personal injury claims rise in recession

A North East law firm believes the economic downturn is a major factor in the rise of personal injury claims.

TBI Solicitors has seen a significant increase in the number of personal injury claims, and believes ‘the recession could well be having an impact on the number of workplace accidents.’

There are a number of factors which could be behind the rise, from costs associated with health and safety becoming a lower priority in a struggling business, to financial hardship making people more likely to claim when injured.

Helen Elstob, personal injury specialist with TBI Solicitors, said: “It is understandable that many businesses are currently taking actions to reduce costs, but it is vital that workers’ safety is not compromised.”

Ms Elstob advised that employers have a duty to protect their staff, contractors and visitors to their business. Compensation for injuries at work have often cost businesses several thousand pounds; average current levels of compensation for industrial injuries include up to £24,500 for vibration white finger, and up to £16,000 for a moderate foot injury.

Ms Elstob added: “Industrial accidents are a common occurrence, and even in an office environment, accidents can and do happen. If you have any queries about your rights if you have suffered an injury, you should seek legal advice.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .