Construction sites are busy, noisy places full of risks. From heavy machinery to high scaffolding, accidents can happen in the blink of an eye. If you’ve been injured on a construction site in the UK, you might be wondering how long you have to make a claim and what compensation you could receive. Don’t worry—this blog will break it all down for you in simple terms. We’ll cover the time limits, compensation amounts, and how National Claims can help you get the support you deserve. Let’s dive in!
Understanding the Time Limit for a Construction Site Injury Claim
First things first, there’s a deadline for making a claim. In the UK, this is called the limitation period. For most personal injury claims, including those from construction site accidents, you have three years to start your claim. This rule comes from the Limitation Act 1980, which sets out how long you have to take legal action after an injury.
So, when does the clock start ticking? Usually, it’s from the date of the accident. For example, if you fell from a ladder on 2 April 2025, you’d have until 2 April 2028 to file your claim. However, it’s not always that simple. Sometimes, injuries don’t show up right away—like a back problem that gets worse over time. In these cases, the three-year countdown begins from the date you became aware of the injury (known as the “date of knowledge”). This could be when a doctor diagnoses you or when you link the pain to the accident.
Exceptions to the Three-Year Rule
Now, there are a few exceptions to this three-year limit. Let’s look at them:
- Children: If the injured person is under 18, the three-year clock doesn’t start until their 18th birthday. So, they have until they turn 21 to make a claim. A parent or guardian can also claim on their behalf before then.
- Mental Capacity: If someone lacks the mental capacity to handle their own claim (due to a severe brain injury, for instance), there might be no time limit at all. This is covered under the Mental Capacity Act 2005.
- Fatal Accidents: If a loved one dies because of a construction site injury, the family has three years from the date of death—or from when they learned it was linked to the accident—to claim.
Because these rules can get tricky, it’s smart to act fast. Waiting too long could mean missing your chance. National Claims can put you in touch with experienced solicitors who’ll figure out your exact deadline and guide you every step of the way.
Why You Shouldn’t Delay Your Claim
Even though you’ve got three years, don’t sit on it. The sooner you start, the better. Why? For one, evidence—like photos of the accident scene or witness statements—is fresher and easier to gather right after the incident. Plus, your memory of what happened will be sharper. Delaying could weaken your case.
On top of that, starting early gives your solicitor time to build a strong claim. They’ll need to collect medical records, accident reports, and maybe even expert opinions. Rushing at the last minute isn’t ideal. According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), construction remains one of the UK’s most dangerous industries, with thousands of injuries reported yearly. Acting quickly ensures you get the justice you deserve.
How Much Compensation Can You Claim?
Next, let’s talk money. If you’ve been hurt on a construction site, you might be entitled to compensation. But how much? It depends on a few things, like how bad your injury is and how it’s affected your life. Compensation is split into two parts: general damages and special damages.
A. General Damages
This covers the pain and suffering caused by your injury. The worse the injury, the higher the payout. Here’s a rough guide based on the Judicial College Guidelines, which solicitors and courts use:
- Minor injuries (e.g., cuts, bruises, or a sprained ankle): £1,000–£2,500
- Moderate injuries (e.g., a broken arm or leg): £14,000–£27,000
- Severe injuries (e.g., spinal damage or loss of a limb): £90,000–£400,000+
For example, a news report from BBC News in 2023 highlighted a construction worker who received £1.5 million after a crane accident left him paralysed. Every case is different, though, so your amount could vary.
B. Special Damages
This part covers your financial losses. Think lost wages, medical bills, or travel costs to hospital appointments. If you’ve had to adapt your home (like installing a ramp after losing mobility), that’s included too. To claim special damages, you’ll need proof—like payslips or receipts.
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to how much you’ll get. But National Claims can connect you with expert solicitors who’ll assess your case and fight for the maximum payout possible.
How National Claims Can Help
Navigating a claim can feel overwhelming—especially when you’re recovering from an injury. That’s where National Claims comes in. They’ll put you in touch with experienced solicitors who specialise in construction site injuries. These pros know the ins and outs of UK law, including the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, which employers must follow to keep sites safe.
Your solicitor will handle everything: gathering evidence, talking to the other side, and negotiating your compensation. Many offer a No Win, No Fee deal, meaning you won’t pay a penny unless you win. It’s a stress-free way to get the help you need. Contact National Claims today to start your claim with confidence.
Steps to Making a Claim
Ready to take action? Here’s a quick rundown of the process:
- Get Medical Help: See a doctor ASAP. Your health comes first, and medical records are key evidence.
- Report the Accident: Tell your employer and make sure it’s logged in the accident book.
- Gather Evidence: Take photos, get witness contacts, and keep any receipts.
- Contact National Claims: They’ll pair you with a solicitor to kick things off.
- Claim Assessment: Your solicitor will check if you’ve got a solid case and estimate your compensation.
Simple, right? The sooner you start, the smoother it’ll go.
Frequently Asked Questions About Construction Site Injury Claims
1. How long do I have to make a claim?
You usually have three years from the accident date—or when you realised you were injured. Kids get until age 21, and there’s no limit if you lack mental capacity.
2. What if my employer blames me?
Don’t panic. Your solicitor will investigate who’s really at fault. If your employer didn’t follow safety rules, you could still win.
3. How much compensation will I get?
It depends on your injury and losses. Minor injuries might fetch £1,000–£2,500, while severe ones could reach hundreds of thousands.
4. Can I claim if I’m self-employed?
Yes! If someone else’s negligence caused your injury (like a site manager), you can still claim.
5. Will I lose my job if I claim?
No. It’s illegal for your employer to sack you for making a legitimate claim. Your rights are protected.
Final Thoughts
Injuries on construction sites can turn your life upside down. But you don’t have to face it alone. You’ve got three years to make a claim—sometimes more in special cases—so don’t delay. Compensation can help with everything from medical costs to lost income, and the amount depends on your situation.
National Claims is here to make it easy. They’ll connect you with top-notch solicitors who’ll fight for what you’re owed. Check out GOV.UK for more on personal injury rules, or browse HSE stats to see why construction safety matters. Ready to start? Reach out to National Claims today and take the first step towards justice.
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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