More than 290,000 was paid to teachers and lecturers who were injured on school property following accidents in the workplace last year.
The figures come from Teachers union, the Educational Institute of Scotland (EIS) and does not take into account private litigation. The figures from the EIS showed that in the all of their cases handled by the ESI, an agreement was reached outside of court through a settlement agreement.
In total, just under £300,000 was awarded to teachers. The study also showed that in terms of workplace accidents slips, trips and falls were the most common.
One teacher was awarded £150,000 after slipping on black ice in a school car park, resulting in a displaced pelvis and other injuries. Another was granted compensation after a window fell inward when teaching in the classroom.
Larry Flanagan, EIS general secretary, said: “At a time when employers are expressing concern at the costs of sickness absence, it is ironic that failure to provide teachers and lecturers a safe place of work has led to significant legal challenge.
“Teachers and lecturers are entitled to safe workplaces and the evidence over this year is a worrying testimony to a lack of diligence by employers.
“It is essential that all injuries in the workplace are reported, logged and that the police are informed where a potential crime, such as assault, has occurred. Without proper procedures being followed for the recording and reporting of incidents, there is little chance of any action being taken to address the cause of the injury.”
A Scottish Government spokeswoman said: “Every pupil and teacher should feel safe from harm at school and in their community.”
Accidents in the Workplace: When Can I Make a Personal Injury Claim?
The figure released from the EIS show how easy it can be to sustain an injury in the workplace regardless of where you work. Many people believe that if they are injured they should simply put up with the injury and try and get along, however, we believe that if you are injured through no fault of your own, then you should be entitled to compensation.
Your employer has a duty of care to you and all other employers, and if you are injured in the workplace as a result of negligence or due to a failure in an employers’ duty of care, then it is possible to make a personal injury claim.
What Could my Claim be Worth?
It is difficult to assess exactly what your personal injury claim could be worth as no personal injury claim is alike. However, when making a claim, it is possible to claim for more than the injuries sustained. You can also claim compensation for loss of income, damage to property and any medical rehabilitation cost.
Many people are put off making a personal injury claim as they worry that making a claim could be expensive or result in them having to pay a substantial amount to a lawyer regardless of the outcome of the case. At Complete Clarity, we operate on a no win, no fee policy meaning that if you are not successful in obtaining compensation then you will not be charged for any of the legal advice or representation you received.
Making a Personal Injury Claim: Contact Us
If you have been injured in the workplace in an accident that was not your fault, or if your employer has failed in their duty of care, contact us today using our online contact form.