I was injured at a workplace. Can I make a claim?
Injuries at the workplace can be a distressing experience, often accompanied by confusion about your rights and potential entitlements. At Ascent Lawyers, we understand the complexities surrounding workplace injuries and are dedicated to providing clear guidance and robust representation for those affected. This blog aims to elucidate the legal avenues available to employees and authorized visitors who have suffered injuries at a workplace.
1. If you were a worker
Employers are obligated under law to maintain a safe working environment for their employees. This encompasses a wide array of responsibilities, from providing adequate training and safety gear to ensuring machinery is maintained and safety protocols are followed.
If you are an employee who has been injured at work, you are typically entitled to make a WorkCover claim. WorkCover is a form of insurance that most Australian employers are required to have. It provides protection to workers if they suffer from a work-related injury or disease.
Just as with employees, business owners and operators have a legal duty to ensure the safety of all authorized visitors to their workplace. Should a visitor be injured due to the owner’s negligence, they may be eligible to make a public liability claim.
Owners must ensure their premises are free from hazards, which means:
- Regularly inspecting the premises for potential dangers.
- Taking reasonable steps to address any identified risks.
- Warning visitors of any risks that cannot be immediately rectified.
3. Case Study: Visitor Injury at a Warehouse
Consider the case of John, an authorized visitor to inspect the premises of a large warehouse. While walking through an aisle, several items fell from a high shelf, striking John and causing significant injury. An investigation revealed that the items had been improperly stacked and that the warehouse had failed to adhere to safety protocols.
John could pursue a public liability claim against the warehouse owner, highlighting:
- The owner’s duty to maintain a safe environment.
- The breach of this duty through improper storage practices.
- The direct causation of his injuries due to this negligence.
4. Engage Ascent Lawyers for Your Claim
If you’ve been injured at a workplace, as a worker or as an authorized visitor, you may feel overwhelmed by the legal processes required to make a claim. This is where Ascent Lawyers can assist you. With our expertise and compassionate approach, we make the legal process as straightforward as possible. See the following reasons for why clients have chosen Ascent Lawyers:
- Expertise in Workplace Injury Claims: Our team has extensive experience in WorkCover and public liability claims.
- Comprehensive Legal Support: We offer end-to-end legal assistance, from initial consultation to settlement or court representation.
- Client-Focused Approach: At Ascent Lawyers, you are not just another case number. We understand your individual circumstances and work tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome.
5. Conclusion
Workplace injuries require knowledgeable and experienced legal support to navigate the claims process effectively. Ascent Lawyers is committed to providing this support, ensuring that your rights are protected and you receive the compensation you deserve. Contact us for a personalized approach to your workplace injury claim and take the first step towards recovery and justice.
