Farm Accident Report Highlights Risks and Rising Claims

The Injuries Resolution Board has published its first research report dedicated to farm accident claims in Ireland, covering cases between 2019 and 2024. The findings provide crucial insight into the nature, severity and causes of injuries sustained in agricultural settings.

At Good & Murray Smith LLP, we welcome this important research. With decades of experience in workplace accident litigation, including farm accident claims, our solicitors have represented injured farmers, agricultural workers and visitors. This report confirms what many in the sector already know – farming carries unique risks that often lead to more serious injuries than in other workplaces.

You can read the full report here: Farm Accidents Report 2019–2024 (Injuries Resolution Board).

Key Findings from the Report

The Farm Accidents Report 2019-2024 analysed 709 claims lodged with the Injuries Resolution Board. Some of the most significant findings include:

Serious injuries in 1 in 4 claims: Nearly 25% of farm accident claims involved serious harm, far higher than other workplace claims.
Higher compensation awards: In 2024, the median award for farm accidents was €34,802, compared to €16,255 for other workplaces.
Animal-related injuries lead: Almost 20% of claims involved animals, with cattle being the most common cause, followed by horses, dogs and sheep.
Worker vs visitor claims: 67% of claims were made by farm workers and 30% by visitors.
Fatalities: Sadly, 11 deaths were reported during the six-year period.
Increase in 2024: Worker-related farm injury claims rose by 29% last year, after a period of decline.
Common injuries: Back injuries (13%) were most frequent, followed by psychological (8%), ankle (6%) and wrist (6%) injuries.
Demographics: 80% of claimants were male, with nearly one in four aged 55 or older.
Geography: Tipperary, Meath and Cork recorded the highest claim volumes and awards.
Compensation totals: Over €7.7 million was awarded to farm accident victims during the six years studied.

Expert Commentary

Rosalind Carroll, CEO of the Injuries Resolution Board, explained:

“Farm accidents are significantly more likely to result in serious harm compared to other sectors, with nearly one in four farm accidents involving serious injuries. The findings highlight the need for continued focus on safety awareness and interventions within farming environments.”

Minister of State Niamh Smyth added:

“Farmers play a vital role in Irish communities and in our economy. This research highlights the risks farmers face and provides valuable insights into how and why injuries happen. By identifying trends and vulnerable groups, this work supports our shared commitment to making farms safer for everyone.”

Why Farm Accidents Are So Severe

Unlike many other workplaces, farms combine heavy machinery, unpredictable livestock, chemical use and outdoor hazards. Farms are often family environments, meaning visitors and children can also be affected.

The report confirms that farm accident claims are more serious, often resulting in long-term injury, disability, or even fatalities. The higher compensation figures awarded reflect the life-changing impact these accidents can have.

How Good & Murray Smith LLP Can Help

If you or a loved one has suffered a farm accident, it is important to act quickly and seek legal advice. At Good & Murray Smith LLP, our solicitors are specialists in personal injury and workplace accident claims.

We can help you pursue compensation for:

Animal-related injuries, including cattle and horse accidents
Machinery-related accidents, such as tractor or harvester injuries
Slips, trips and falls on farmland
Crush or rollover incidents
Chemical exposure or poisoning
Fatal accidents, where families may have a claim for wrongful death

Our firm combines deep legal expertise with technical knowledge of agricultural risks. We liaise with medical specialists, engineers and investigators to build robust claims, ensuring your case is handled professionally from start to finish.

Learn more about our farm accident claims services.

Taking the Next Step

Farm accidents can leave victims facing medical bills, loss of earnings and long-term uncertainty. Our role is to make the claims process as clear and straightforward as possible, while fighting for the full compensation you deserve.