PERSONAL INJURIES – Accidents at Work Solicitors in Limerick

Workplace injury claims we handle

We advise on injuries arising from a range of working environments, including construction sites, factories, warehouses, shops, offices and schools.

These include:

• Construction and site accidents, including falls from height, falling objects and unsafe access.
• Machinery and equipment injuries, including accidents involving defective equipment, inadequate guarding or unsafe operating procedures.
• Warehouse and factory accidents, including incidents involving forklifts, moving vehicles and falling stock.
• Manual handling injuries, including injuries associated with lifting, carrying, pushing or pulling.
• Slips, trips and falls, including accidents caused by unsuitable surfaces, obstructions or spillages.
• Inadequate training or protective equipment, where shortcomings may have contributed to an injury.
• Occupational illness and injury, including conditions that develop through workplace exposure over time.

We also advise on serious injuries that affect a person’s long-term ability to work or live independently.

Understanding whether you have a claim

An accident at work does not automatically establish a right to compensation. We need to understand how the injury happened, who may have been responsible and what evidence is available.

Relevant questions may include:

• Was the work properly planned and supervised?
• Were suitable training, equipment and assistance provided?
• Was machinery maintained and used safely?
• Had a hazard been identified or reported?
• Were other contractors or businesses involved?

You do not need to resolve these questions before contacting us. We can discuss the circumstances and identify what needs further investigation.

What should you do after an accident at work?

Your immediate priority is your health and any necessary medical treatment.

Report the accident to your employer and ask for it to be recorded accurately. When possible, keep:

• A note of when, where and how the accident happened.
• The names and contact details of witnesses.
• Photographs of the location, equipment or hazard, where safe and permitted.
• Copies of accident reports and relevant correspondence.
• Details of medical treatment, expenses and time away from work.
• Payslips or other records showing lost income.

Do not put yourself at risk to obtain evidence. If you do not have these records, you can still contact us to discuss your situation.

When an injury affects your future employment

Some injuries have consequences that extend well beyond an initial period of sick leave. You may be unable to return to the same duties, work the same hours or continue in your occupation.

Our investigation considers the effect on your working life, including potential loss of earnings, career opportunities and pension benefits. Depending on the injury, we may also need evidence about treatment, rehabilitation, care, equipment or changes to your home.

Understanding those future needs is particularly important before considering a settlement.

How HDM can help

An initial discussion

We listen to what happened, ask about your injuries and identify any urgent issues, without any obligation on you to instruct us.

Advice on your options and costs

We explain what further information is needed, the potential next steps and how legal costs and outlays would be handled, and whether we would fund your medical reports and defer any legal fees.

Investigation and preparation

If instructed, we gather relevant records and evidence, obtain appropriate expert input and advise on the applicable claims process.

Advice as the case progresses

We explain developments and any proposals for resolving the claim so that you can make informed decisions.

Thomas Dowling leads our personal injury practice, with a focus on clear communication and careful investigation of each client’s circumstances.

Questions about workplace injury claims

I still work for the employer. Can I speak with you?

Yes. You can seek advice while still employed. Tell us if you are concerned about your working relationship, sick leave or returning to work so we can consider those issues alongside the injury.

What if my employer says the accident was my fault?

Your employer’s account is one part of the evidence. We can examine the circumstances, including the work system, training, equipment and any witness accounts. Explain what happened as accurately as you can, including anything you think may count against you.

What if I was an agency worker or self-employed?

Tell us about your working arrangements and who controlled the work. Identifying the relevant parties requires careful examination of the circumstances; your job title or contractual label does not answer every question.

How much will it cost?

Before you instruct us, we will explain our proposed fees, potential outlays and the possible costs consequences of bringing a claim. We will consider whether we will fund the costs of your medical reports and whether we will defer our professional fee.  We will also explain what payments may be required so you can consider the position before proceeding.

How long do I have to take action?

Legal time limits apply. The applicable deadline depends on the circumstances, so seek advice promptly. Early advice can also help preserve records, witness evidence and CCTV that may otherwise become unavailable.

Speak with Thomas Dowling

Hogan Dowling McNamara Solicitors are conveniently located at Castletroy House, Dublin Road, Limerick with plenty of off street parking.  Please contact us by phone at 061 501100, email Thomas Dowling, Partner at [email protected] or get a call back by completing our contact form so we can provide you with further information or advice.