A Guide To Construction Accident Compensation Claims In The UK

Construction sites are among the most hazardous working environments in the UK. With heavy machinery, working at height, and a fast-paced, high-pressure atmosphere, the risks of serious injury are ever-present.

When health and safety rules are ignored or procedures break down, accidents can – and often do – happen. If you’ve suffered an injury on a building site that wasn’t your fault, you may be entitled to claim compensation.

This guide to construction accident compensation claims in the UK explains who can claim, what’s involved in the claims process, and how a specialist solicitor can help protect your rights and secure the financial support you deserve.

Reach out to us today on 0800 0747 644 or complete a Free Online Enquiry to tell us more about your situation.

“To describe the quality, professionalism and efficiency of the service it is out of this world.

A high quality service as well as being so respectful.”

What Is A Construction Accident Claim?

A construction accident claim is a legal process through which injured workers or site visitors can seek compensation for injuries sustained on a construction site, provided those injuries were caused by someone else’s negligence or a breach of health and safety regulations.

Compensation is designed to put you, as far as possible, back in the financial and physical position you were in before the accident. It can cover both the physical pain you’ve suffered and the financial losses you’ve incurred, such as time off work or medical expenses.

Construction sites can be chaotic environments, and unfortunately, some of the most common causes of injury include:

• Falls from scaffolding, ladders, or unprotected edges
• Being struck by falling tools, materials or debris
• Collisions with site vehicles or machinery
• Electrical shocks from exposed wires or faulty equipment
• Injuries from defective tools or machinery
• Unsafe working practices due to lack of training or supervision

Who Is Eligible To Make A Claim?

If you were injured on a construction site through no fault of your own, you may be entitled to claim — regardless of your role or employment status. Eligible claimants may include:

• Full-time or part-time employees
• Self-employed workers or subcontractors
• Apprentices or agency workers
• Site visitors, such as surveyors or delivery personnel

Some workers may wrongly believe they can’t claim because they’re self-employed or paid cash-in-hand. However, if you were under someone else’s direction and control at the time, you may still be protected under the law and able to bring a claim.

Employers and site managers have a legal duty to protect everyone on site, not just those on the payroll.

Common Injuries In Construction Accident Claims

The injuries sustained on building sites are often serious and can have long-term or even life-altering effects. Some of the most common injuries we help clients claim for include:

• Head and brain injuries – Often from falls or being struck by objects.
• Spinal injuries and back pain – From lifting heavy loads or falls from height.
• Broken bones and fractures – Common in slip and trip incidents.
• Burns – From exposed wiring, hot substances, or flammable materials.
• Crush injuries – From machinery, collapsing scaffolding or moving vehicles.
• Lacerations and deep cuts – From tools or sharp construction materials.

Even seemingly minor injuries can result in time off work, reduced earnings, and mounting expenses — all of which may be included in a compensation claim.

Your Employer’s Responsibilities Under UK Law

Employers and site operators have strict responsibilities under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 and supporting regulations such as the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015.

They must:

• Carry out regular risk assessments
• Ensure that all workers receive adequate training and supervision
• Provide and maintain appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE)
• Keep the worksite tidy, secure and free from hazards
• Maintain all machinery and tools in safe working order
• Clearly signpost dangerous areas

If your employer or site manager failed in any of these duties and you were injured as a result, you may have strong grounds for a compensation claim.

How To Start A Construction Accident Compensation Claim

Making a claim may feel daunting, especially if you’re still recovering or worried about losing your job. At Grieves Solicitors, we make the process straightforward and stress-free. Here’s how it typically works:

1. Get Medical Help

Your health comes first. Make sure your injuries are properly treated and documented.

2. Report The Incident

Notify your employer or site manager. The incident should be logged in the site’s accident book.

3. Gather Evidence

Take photos of the accident site and your injuries, keep copies of medical reports and expenses, and gather names of any witnesses.

4. Contact A Solicitor

Speak to a personal injury solicitor with experience in construction accident claims. We can assess the strength of your case and explain your options clearly.

5. Time Limits

You usually have three years from the date of the accident to make a claim. There are exceptions, so we recommend getting legal advice as soon as possible.

What Can Be Included In Your Claim?

Compensation is typically split into two parts:

• General damages – This covers your physical pain, suffering, and the impact the injury has had on your daily life.
• Special damages – This reimburses you for financial losses such as:
  • Loss of earnings (including future losses if you can’t return to work)
  • Medical and treatment costs
  • Travel to and from appointments
  • The cost of care or home adaptations, if needed

Each claim is unique. We’ll take the time to understand your situation fully so we can secure the maximum compensation possible.

Why Choose Grieves Solicitors?

At Grieves Solicitors, we have a long track record of helping injured workers get the justice and compensation they deserve. With decades of experience in personal injury law, we understand the challenges you face after a construction accident.

We offer:

• A No Win, No Fee service, so there’s no financial risk in bringing a claim
• Personal, compassionate support throughout the process
• Skilled negotiation with insurers and legal teams
• A commitment to securing the best possible outcome for you

We’re not a claims factory. We’re a dedicated team that treats every client with respect and care.

Taking The Next Step After A Construction Site Accident

Construction accident compensation claims in the UK are a vital route to recovery, not only financially but also emotionally. If your life has been affected by a preventable site accident, you don’t have to face it alone.

At Grieves Solicitors, we’re here to fight your corner, explain your rights clearly, and help you move forward with confidence. The sooner you speak to us, the sooner we can start helping.

Our caring and supportive team are here to listen and advise on 0800 0747 644. Or you can complete a Free Online Enquiry to set up a free consultation or tell us more about your story.

Here at Grieves Solicitors, Personal Injury Specialists, we offer a no win, no fee solution to funding your claim (a conditional fee agreement) which means that you do not have to worry about legal costs and expenses.  You can read about our no win, no fee agreement here.