Yes, you can claim for psychological stress after a work accident in Scotland. If the incident caused mental distress, anxiety, depression or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), you may be entitled to compensation. These types of claims fall under psychological injury claims, which are legally recognised in Scotland.
Understanding Psychological Injury Claims in the Workplace
Work accidents don’t only result in physical injuries. They can also cause severe psychological damage. For example, witnessing a traumatic incident, being involved in a serious fall, or developing chronic anxiety due to unsafe working conditions can deeply affect your mental health.
These conditions are valid grounds for a personal injury claim for psychological damage if they are directly linked to your employer’s negligence. Employers in Scotland have a legal duty under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 to protect your mental and physical wellbeing.
What Types of Psychological Injuries Can You Claim For?
Here are common types of psychological injury claims following a workplace accident:
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Anxiety and panic attacks
- Depression
- Sleep disturbances
- Phobias or avoidance behaviours
These conditions must be medically diagnosed and linked to the workplace incident to proceed with a compensation claim for psychological injury.
Who Is Eligible to Claim?
You may be eligible for an accident at work claim in Scotland if:
- The psychological injury was caused by or worsened due to a work accident.
- Your employer failed to take reasonable steps to prevent the incident.
- The injury was diagnosed by a medical professional.
- You are claiming within the standard time limit of three years.
You do not have to be physically injured to make a claim. Psychological injuries alone are recognised under Scottish personal injury law.
Evidence You Need for a Successful Psychological Injury Claim
Building a strong work accident Scotland claim for psychological stress involves gathering:
- Medical evidence: GP or specialist diagnosis and treatment records.
- Accident report: Documented in your workplace accident log.
- Witness statements: Colleagues who saw the incident or its impact on you.
- Occupational health reports: If available.
How Much Compensation Can You Claim?
The amount you can claim depends on the severity of your psychological injury, the impact on your life and ability to work, and any related financial losses.
General Guidelines (from the Judicial College Guidelines):
- Mild psychological injury: £1,000 – £5,000
- Moderate psychological injury: £5,000 – £19,000
- Severe psychological injury (e.g. PTSD): Up to £100,000+
You may also receive compensation for:
- Loss of earnings
- Medical treatment costs
- Therapy and medication
- Travel expenses related to your recovery
How National Claims Can Help
At National Claims, we connect you with experienced solicitors who specialise in psychological injury claims. We understand the emotional toll a workplace incident can have and ensure you are supported throughout the process. Our panel can help you:
- Understand your eligibility
- Collect and organise the right evidence
- Negotiate fair compensation
- Handle the claim on a No Win, No Fee basis
People Also Ask:
1. Can I claim if I developed stress over time, not from a single incident?
Yes. If your stress is caused by long-term employer negligence (e.g. bullying, unsafe workload), you may still claim.
2. What is the time limit for making a claim in Scotland?
Generally, it’s three years from the date of the accident or diagnosis.
3. Do I need a mental health diagnosis to claim?
Yes, claims must be supported by medical evidence.
4. Will claiming affect my job?
Your employer cannot legally dismiss or treat you unfairly for claiming.
Final Thoughts
Experiencing psychological stress after a work accident in Scotland is more common than many people think. If you’re struggling with your mental health due to employer negligence or a traumatic incident, you don’t have to suffer in silence.
A psychological injury claim can help you access the care, time and compensation you need to recover. National Claims is here to guide you every step of the way and put you in touch with legal professionals who understand what you’re going through.
Contact National Claims today, and we will put you in touch with an expert solicitor who can guide you through the claims process.📞 Call us now free 0800 029 3849 or 📩 Submit an online enquiry to speak to our team. Your safety and well-being matter, and we’re here to help.
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