Personal injury claims increasing
The recession has led to a significant rise in the number of personal injury claims made, according to a North-East law firm.
The law firm stated that as more employers cut back on costs during the economic downturn, the number of work related accidents is increasing.
Previous research revealed that over 60 per cent of employees believe that health and safety is less of a priority during the current crisis.
As a result, the number of personal injuries and fatalities due to work accidents has soared.
A personal injury specialist from the law firm stated that it has already seen a rise in the number of work accident claims made over recent months.
She said: "It is understandable that many businesses are currently taking actions to reduce costs, but it is vital that workers' safety is not compromised."
She warned that businesses failing to protect its employees, contractors and visitors by breaching health and safety regulations, failing to provide adequate training and failing to provide adequate safety wear as a bid to save costs is more likely to be more costly in the long run.
The specialist added: "Industrial accidents are a common occurrence, and even in an office environment, accidents can and do happen. If you have any queries about your rights if you have suffered an injury, you should seek legal advice."
Updated on 04/08/2009