Last Updated on April 29, 2026 by tanya

How To Claim for a Degloving Injury at Work

 

About Our Legal Expert: This content is produced under the oversight of Michael Jefferies, First Personal Injury Director, who brings over 30 years of legal experience.

Written by Tanya Waterworth, Digital Content Writer

 

Did Employer Negligence Cause Your Injury?

This guide will cover how to claim for a degloving injury at work – considered to be among the most serious types of injuries sustained in the workplace. A degloving injury happens when the skin and tissue are forcefully torn from the underlying muscle, bone, or connective tissue, much like peeling off a glove. Degloving injuries often require surgery or even skin grafts.

If you’ve suffered a degloving injury at work, you will be well aware of the severity of this kind of accident. However, if the injury was caused by employer negligence or unsafe conditions, you may be entitled to compensation.

 

What Can Cause a Degloving Injury?

A degloving injury is a severe injury where skin and tissue are pulled away, exposing muscles, tendons, nerves, and bones. These injuries often occur in workplaces with heavy machinery, conveyor belts, or moving vehicles. Here are a few examples of what could result in this type of injury at work:

 

• Getting clothing, gloves, or hands caught in unprotected machinery.
• Accidents involving forklifts, trucks, or industrial equipment.
• Lack of proper machine guards or safety features.
• Slips, trips, or falls involving sharp objects.
• Improper training or lack of protective equipment.

 

Due to the severity, degloving injuries almost always require emergency medical care, and recovery may involve multiple surgeries and a long rehabilitation period.

 

What is Employer Negligence?

Legally, employers have a duty of care to protect workers by providing a safe working environment. When they fail in this duty, they can be held liable.

 

Examples of employer negligence include:

 

• Failure to maintain equipment or replace faulty machinery.
• Not providing adequate safety training for employees.
• Ignoring health and safety regulations set by workplace safety authorities.
• Not supplying PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) such as gloves, guards, or safety gear.
• Unrealistic workloads that push employees into unsafe practices.

 

If your injury was caused by any of the above, you likely have grounds to claim compensation.

 

How To Successfully File a Claim for a Degloving Injury

Filing a claim requires evidence, documentation, and legal guidance. Here’s a breakdown on what you need to do:

 

1. Seek Immediate Medical Treatment

• Your health is the priority. Go to the hospital right away.
• Ask for detailed medical records—these will serve as crucial evidence.
• Keep receipts of all treatment costs, medications, and rehabilitation expenses.

 

2. Report the Injury to Your Employer

• Report the incident in writing as soon as possible.
• Ensure your employer records it in the official accident log book.
• Get a copy of the accident report.

 

3. Gather Evidence of Negligence

• If possible, take photos of the accident site, machinery, or safety hazards.
• Collect statements from co-workers who witnessed the incident.
• Keep records of previous complaints made about unsafe conditions.

 

4. Contact a Workplace Injury Lawyer

• Specialised lawyers understand degloving injury cases and can prove negligence.
• They will guide you through the relevant criteria, such as time limits, for filing claims.
• A lawyer increases your chances of receiving maximum compensation.

 

5. File a Claim

• Your lawyer will file a claim with your employer’s insurance provider.
• Most claims are settled out of court, but if necessary, your lawyer can represent you in court.

 

Compensation for a Degloving Injury

The amount you can claim depends on severity, recovery time, and long-term impact.

Compensation may cover:

 

• Medical expenses, such as surgery, hospital stays, rehabilitation.
• Lost wages during recovery.
• Future loss of earnings if you cannot return to work.
• Pain and suffering
• Permanent disability or disfigurement.
• Travel costs for medical appointments.

 

Tips to Strengthen Your Claim

To improve your chances of a successful claim, here are some top tips:

 

1. Do not sign anything from your employer’s insurance company without legal advice.

2. Keep a recovery diary noting pain levels, limitations, and emotional distress.

3. Stay off social media—insurance companies may use posts against you.

4. Follow all medical advice—failure to do so could weaken your claim.

5. Document all your financial losses including childcare costs, home modifications, or therapy bills.

 

FAQs on Degloving Injuries at Work

Can I claim compensation for a degloving injury at work?

Yes. If the injury happened due to employer negligence, such as unsafe equipment, lack of training, or failure to provide PPE.

 

How much compensation will I get for a degloving injury?

Compensation depends on medical costs, loss of income, long-term disability, and emotional suffering. Severe degloving injuries can result in substantial payouts.

 

How long do I have to make a workplace injury claim?

You typically have three years from the date of the injury, or from when you became aware of the injury).

 

Do I need a lawyer to file a claim?

While it’s not compulsory, a specialist workplace injury lawyer significantly increases your chances of success and ensures you receive the maximum settlement.

 

Why Acting Quickly Matters

Successful workplace injury claims rely on evidence and timely reporting. The longer you wait:

 

• The harder it becomes to prove negligence.
• Witness memories may fade.
• Physical evidence may be repaired, removed, or lost.

 

By acting quickly, you give your lawyer the strongest case possible.

 

‘No Win, No Fee’ Claims

If you or a loved one has suffered from a degloving injury at work and if your employer’s negligence contributed to the accident, you have the right to seek compensation. While the legal process may feel intimidating, following the correct steps and working with an experienced lawyer will give you the best chance of success. A ‘No Win, No Fee’ agreement means no legal costs upfront and you only pay fees if you win your case.

Remember:

 

• Get medical treatment immediately.
• Report and document everything.
• Gather evidence of negligence.
• Consult lawyers experienced in work injury claims.

 

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 and 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.