If you have developed long term pain, diseases, amputations, or injuries through work related activity, then there is no reason why you should face the financial costs of that injury alone.
Painful ailments such as Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI) can leave you out of work, force you to take time off, or put you through terrible pain after every shift.
If this story sounds too familiar to you then keep reading. You are the target audience for this article. Here is what you ought to know about claiming compensation for a repetitive strain injury within the UK.
What is Repetitive Strain Injury?
A repetitive Strain Injury is just what it sounds like. It is an injury you sustain because you make the same motions over and over again. To put that into context: a typist in a data entry position might spend all day typing, therefore developing an RSI in her fingers and hands. A supermarket employee might develop lower back pain due to reaching and stretching, carrying and lifting.
Why Claim Compensation for an RSI?
You may be eligiuble to claim compensation after developing a RSI if you develop that injury through no fault of your own. In the above examples, the typist should receive support from their employer to prevent the development of the RSI. This might mean voice-to-text technology or an adapted mechanical keyboard. On the other hand, a supermarket employee might require a back or knee bracers to support them while they lift.
If you report your worries to your employer and they do not make reasonable moves to ensure your health and safety while at work, then you may be able to launch a claim.
When Should I Make a Claim for Compensation for a Personal Injury in the UK and Northern Ireland?
If you think you have a RSI that was caused by repeating actions at work, a compensation claim could be the ideal way to resolve your financial woes. However, you must make that claim within three years of the date of the diagnosis of your condition. The statute of limitations stands at 3 years in the UK and NI. You can read more about bringing your compensation claim for RSI here.
What Could I Get For a Successful Claim?
If you have a painful injury with a long term recovery time, you may receive up to £20,000. The milder your injuries and the faster your recovery time, the less your claim for repetitive strain will be worth. Compensation claims for painful repetitive strain injuries which have permanent damage, or which continues to reoccur after treatment and rest, are worth the most money.
Each case is judged on its own merits and it is impossible to say without knowing the full details of your case. You should seek legal advice before you proceed. A quick phone call to a personal injury lawyer will confirm or deny your claim’s validity. It could be the most important call you ever make.
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