Refuse collectors and work accident compensation

Thousands of people across the UK are employed by councils and private firms in the area of refuse collection. Although it is perhaps not the most prestigious of careers, the collection of rubbish is an absolutely vital service and our streets and environment would be a lot dirtier and unhealthier without people performing its tasks.

Unfortunately, there are risks associated with refuse collection and each year injured workers have to claim work accident compensation from their employers. Whilst handling the actual rubbish is dangerous in itself, one of the biggest dangers for workers is the large bin lorry which carries them and their colleagues from house to house.

Bin lorries and casualties
According to statistics from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), there were 513 refuse collection employees who suffered over 3-day workplace transport injuries between 2001 and 2006. This means that their work accident injuries were serious enough for them to take time off sick for three days or more following a road accident.

Whilst it is not known how many of these workers decided to claim work accident compensation, the likelihood is that quite a significant proportion would qualify. Most of the injuries occurred when workers were hit by the refuse lorry something which in some cases may be linked to lorry's poor rearward visibility.

It may well be that work accident compensation payouts are made in such circumstances, especially if the employer had not set out procedures on methods of safe reversing. For example, some councils now require that refuse loaders get out of the vehicle and guide the driver when reversing, checking that there is nobody in the way who could get hurt.

Unfortunately, many bin lorry accidents result in serious personal injuries and substantial work accident compensation payouts due to the sheer weight and bulk of the vehicle involved. 187 of the 513 incidents from 2001 to 2006 were classified as major injuries by the Health and Safety Executive.

Claiming work accident compensation
The idea of claiming work accident compensation can seem a bit overwhelming, especially if you are still recovering from your personal injuries. However, YouClaim makes the process as easy as can be and we promise that there are no costs for you to worry about, no matter what the outcome of your compensation claim.

After you have explained the details of your work accident to us, we will put you in touch with one of our panel of no win, no fee solicitors who specialises in work accident compensation claims. They will then explain the claims process in plain English and, if you are happy to go ahead, make contact with your workplace's insurance company. There is minimal paperwork for you to look through and the procedure is very straightforward.

It couldn't be easier to claim work accident compensation. To start your claim today, call freephone 0800 10 757 95, chat online via e-chat or request a call-back by filling out this form.