A recent report released by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) revealed that accidental slips and falls account for the majority of ‘injury hospitalisations’.
According to the report, they account for approximately 38 per cent of cases, putting them ahead of both transport accidents and assault.
WorkCover NSW says that slips and falls are also common in the workplace, which are costing thousands of dollars.
“During 2010/11 there were 14,720 claims for slips, trips and falls on the same level at a cost of more than $117 million to the NSW workers compensation scheme,” said general manager of WorkCover’s health and safety division John Watson.
“The average cost of these claims was $7,965 demonstrating how big an impact a slip, trip or fall on the same level can have.”
Although the cost is high, this should not put you off applying for compensation if you are involved in this type of accident due to another person’s negligence.
Here are a few tips for what to do should you slip or fall at the workplace and want to seek compensation.
Know your rights
Many people do not understand their rights, and by the time they realise them it can be too late to act.
If you injure yourself at work, then your employer may be held liable depending on the situation. Seek professional advice to explore your options.
There are compensation lawyers in Sydney that operate on a no win no fee basis, that may be able to help you make a claim.
Act immediately
It is important to report your accident immediately – waiting can compromise your case. Tell your employer and then see a doctor straight away.
Tell the doctor every part of your body that is injured, or that may be injured, and see him or her again soon after for a check up.
That way all of your injuries will be on record, should you need to prove them later on, in court for example.
Be honest
Last but not least, be honest and provide your employer, your doctor and your lawyer with all of the details.
A good lawyer can only help you with all of the information, and by explaining the situation to your employer these types of accidents may be avoided in the future.
Some people may be tempted to get up and carry on as if nothing has happened, but it is better to be safe than sorry – get checked quickly to ensure that you are healthy and unharmed.
