Last Updated on May 7, 2025 by tanya

Common Accidents for Bricklayers

 

How to Claim Compensation When It Was Not Your Fault

 

Being a bricklayer is physically demanding and common accidents for bricklayers can range from a fall from height to exposure to a hazardous substance. The construction industry remains one of the riskiest sectors to work in, which sees ‘brickies’ facing potential injuries daily.

A leading injury among bricklayers is musculoskeletal disorders from the repetitive nature of the job, while falls of scaffolding or ladders also have the potential for broken bones or spinal trauma.

While employers are required to provide safety for their workers, accidents may happen. If you’re a bricklayer and have been injured while at work, you may be considering claiming for compensation. You may be entitled to file a personal injury claim if you have been injured through no fault of your own.

Our team at First Personal Injury, we work with experienced lawyers, and we may be able to help.

 

When Can a Brickie File a Personal Injury Claim?

You can file a personal injury claim if you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence or a breach of duty. This could be your employer, a site supervisor, or even a third-party contractor.

 

Common Accident Scenarios Include:

 

• Falls from height (e.g., scaffolding collapses or unstable ladders)
• Manual handling injuries (e.g., lifting heavy materials without proper equipment)
• Being struck by falling objects
• Slips, trips, and falls due to wet or uneven surfaces
• Exposure to hazardous substances
• Defective machinery or tools

 

Time Limits for Making a Claim

The time limit to start a claim is generally three years from the date of the accident, or the date you became aware of the injury. There are exceptions for minors or those lacking mental capacity, but it’s best to seek legal advice early.

 

Why Should a Bricklayer File a Compensation Claim?

Some injured workers hesitate to make a claim, worried about employer retaliation or job loss. However, the law protects employees from unfair treatment due to a legitimate personal injury claim.

Here are some common reasons why a brickie may file a claim for compensation:

 

Medical Costs: While NHS care may be free, but some injuries require private treatment, rehabilitation, or specialised equipment.

 

Loss of Earnings: If you’re unable to work, compensation can cover lost wages and even future loss of earnings if your injury has long-term effects.

 

Pain and Suffering: Compensation reflects the severity of your injury, its impact on your quality of life, and emotional distress.

 

Rehabilitation Support: Many claims include the cost of physical therapy and recovery services.

 

Employer Responsibilities

Employers have a legal duty to protect their employees from harm. For bricklayers, this includes:

 

• Providing proper training
• Supplying personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves, helmets, and high-visibility clothing
• Ensuring scaffolding and equipment are regularly maintained and inspected
• Conducting risk assessments
• Creating a culture of safe working practices

Failure to meet these obligations is considered negligence. If that negligence leads to your injury, you’re may be eligible to claim compensation.

 

How to File a Personal Injury Claim

Filing a successful personal injury claim involves several important steps:

 

Seek Immediate Medical Attention

Your health should always come first, so make sure your injuries are treated promptly. A medical report will serve as key evidence in your claim.

 

Report the Injury to Your Employer

Legally, all workplace injuries must be recorded in the company’s accident book. If your employer doesn’t have one, make sure to report the incident in writing. Make sure to keep a copy for your records.

 

Gather Evidence

Strong evidence is the backbone of a successful claim. This may include:

 

• Photos of the accident scene and your injuries
• CCTV footage (if available)
• Witness statements from co-workers
• Records of correspondence with your employer
• Medical reports and receipts for expenses

 

Speak To A Personal Injury Lawyer

Look for a solicitor who specialises in construction or workplace injury claims. Most offer a no win, no fee agreement, meaning you don’t pay unless your claim is successful.

 

How Much Compensation Can You Expect?

Compensation is usually divided into two categories:

 

General Damages

This covers pain, suffering, and loss of amenity. The amount depends on the type and severity of your injury.

 

Special Damages

This includes financial losses such as:

• Loss of earnings
• Travel expenses
• Medical treatment costs
• Care or support services

Each case is unique, so the final payout will depend on your individual circumstances and the strength of your evidence.

 

FAQs For Brickies Injured At Work

Can I claim if I’m self-employed? If you were working on a construction site under contract and someone else’s negligence caused your injury, you can still file a claim.

 

Will I lose my job if I make a claim? It is illegal for an employer to sack or discipline you for making a legitimate claim. You’re protected by employment laws.

 

How long does a claim take? The length of time a claim takes will depend on the complexity of the case and whether liability is accepted early. Your personal injury lawyer will be able to advise you on this, as well as potential compensation.

 

Talk To Us

If you have been injured due to unsafe working conditions or employer negligence, it may be worth your while to speak to an experienced personal injury lawyer.

Reaching out to a trusted claims company can make a significant difference in your journey ahead. At First Personal Injury, we work with experienced lawyers who operate on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis.

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.