Last Updated on March 31, 2026 by tanya

Written by Tanya Waterworth, Digital Content Writer

Cherry Picker Accidents at Work

How to Claim Compensation in England and Wales

Cherry pickers are essential machines in many industries across England and Wales and so there’s always a risk of cherry picker accidents at work. However, If you have suffered injuries in a cherry picker accident at work which was not your fault, you may be entitled to claim compensation with a personal injury claim.

Cherry pickers allow workers to safely reach elevated areas for maintenance, construction, cleaning, and installation tasks. But, when these machines are poorly maintained, incorrectly operated, or used without proper safety procedures, serious accidents can occur. Cherry picker accidents can potentially result in severe injuries because they involve working at height and heavy mechanical equipment.

Our team works with solicitors who are experienced in work injury claims. They offer a free consultation as well as No Win, No Fee agreements – contact us today to find out if you may have a claim for compensation.

 

What Is a Cherry Picker?

A cherry picker, also known as a mobile elevating work platform (MEWP), is designed to raise workers safely to elevated locations. Workers typically stand in a platform or cage attached to an extendable arm that can move vertically and horizontally.

Cherry pickers are widely used in industries for working at height. While these machines improve efficiency and safety when used correctly, they can become hazardous if employers fail to follow safety regulations.

 

Common Causes of Cherry Picker Accidents

Most cherry picker accidents occur because employers fail to implement proper safety measures or provide adequate training. In a case which has been recently reported by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), a father of three was killed while working in a cherry picker which hit an overhead power line. This was despite the company being advised to relocate the power line some nine months previously.

In many cases, accidents are entirely preventable. Some of the most common causes may include:

 

1. Equipment Malfunction

Mechanical faults such as hydraulic failure, faulty controls, or structural defects can cause a platform to collapse or move unpredictably. Employers are legally required to regularly inspect and maintain cherry pickers to ensure they remain safe to use.

 

2. Overloading the Platform

Each cherry picker has a strict weight limit. Exceeding this limit can cause instability or mechanical strain, increasing the risk of tipping or structural failure.

 

3. Lack of Proper Training

Operating a cherry picker requires specific training. Workers must understand how to control the platform, assess ground conditions, and recognise potential hazards. When employers allow untrained staff to operate the equipment, the risk of accidents increases considerably.

 

4. Poor Ground Conditions

Cherry pickers require stable ground. Uneven surfaces, soft soil, or hidden obstacles can cause the machine to become unstable, particularly when fully extended.

 

5. Collision With Structures or Vehicles

Operators may accidentally move the platform into buildings, scaffolding, power lines, or nearby vehicles. Factors such as poor visibility, lack of communication, or restricted working space may contribute to these incidents.

 

6. Lack of Safety Equipment

Workers using cherry pickers should wear safety harnesses or fall protection equipment. If employers fail to provide or enforce the use of protective equipment, it heightens the risk of severe injuries in an accident.

 

Typical Cherry Picker Injuries

Because cherry pickers lift workers several metres above the ground, accidents can cause serious injuries, such as:

 

• Head and brain injuries
• Spinal injuries
• Broken bones and fractures
• Crush injuries
• Internal injuries
• Severe cuts and lacerations
• Shoulder and joint injuries

Some injuries may require long-term medical treatment or rehabilitation. In severe cases, workers may be unable to return to their previous role or any form of employment.

 

Employer Responsibilities for Cherry Picker Safety

Employers in England and Wales have a legal duty to protect workers from harm. Several health and safety regulations apply to the use of cherry pickers and other elevated work platforms.

If an employer fails to meet these responsibilities and an accident occurs, they may be legally responsible for the injuries suffered.

 

When Can You Claim Compensation?

You may be able to make a compensation claim if your cherry picker accident occurred because of negligence. In workplace claims, negligence usually means an employer failed to take reasonable steps to keep workers safe.

Example Scenario 1: Operator Without Proper Training

John works for a maintenance company in Cardiff. He is asked to operate a cherry picker to clean high windows. Although he has experience on ladders, he has never been trained on the specific cherry picker model. While lifting the platform, John accidentally tips it because he misjudges the controls, resulting in a broken arm and back injuries.

Why a claim may arise: The employer failed to provide adequate training for the equipment, which is a legal duty under health and safety regulations. The accident was preventable, and the employer’s negligence makes John eligible to claim compensation for his injuries, lost earnings, and medical costs.

 

Example Scenario 2: Faulty Equipment Leads to Collapse

Samantha works for a telecommunications company in Manchester. She is using a cherry picker to reach a telephone pole. Unbeknownst to her, the hydraulic system of the platform has a defect that the company failed to identify during maintenance checks. The platform suddenly collapses, causing Samantha to suffer multiple fractures and a head injury.

Why a claim may arise: The employer neglected to inspect and maintain the cherry picker properly. This equipment failure directly caused Samantha’s injuries, making her eligible to claim compensation for both physical and financial losses.

 

What Compensation Can You Claim?

Compensation for a cherry picker accident typically falls into two categories.

General Damages

General damages compensate you for the pain, suffering, and loss of quality of life caused by your injuries.

The amount awarded depends on factors such as the severity of your injuries and recovery time,

Special Damages

Special damages cover financial losses related to the accident. This may include lost wages, medical treatment and rehabilitation costs, travel expenses for medical appointments and even future loss of income.

Essentially, a successful claim aims to restore you financially to the position you would have been in if the accident had not occurred.

 

To make a claim, you must normally start the legal process within three years of the accident or from the date you became aware of your injuries.

 

No Win No Fee Cherry Picker Accident Claims

We work with personal injury lawyers who offer workplace accident claims under a No Win No Fee agreement, formally known as a Conditional Fee Agreement (CFA).

Under this arrangement:

• You usually do not pay upfront legal fees
• You do not pay your solicitor if the claim is unsuccessful
• A success fee is deducted from your compensation if the claim succeeds

This structure allows injured workers to pursue compensation without taking on significant financial risk.

 

Need Help Now?

Cherry picker accidents can often occur because employers fail to follow proper safety procedures or neglect their legal responsibilities.

If you have been injured in a cherry picker accident at work in England or Wales, you may have the right to claim compensation. Taking early legal advice can help you understand your options, gather evidence, and begin the claims process.

Reaching out to a trusted claims company can make a significant difference in your journey ahead. We will ensure you receive all the support you need. Call us at 0333 358 2345 or contact us online at First Personal Injury to learn more.