Machinery Accident Claims

Accidents involving machines are regrettably all too common on farms, construction sites and factories in Ireland. At Good & Murray Smith LLP, we have dealt with hundreds of these claims, ranging from minor cuts and bruises up to catastrophic injuries. We understand the injuries, the issues and the tactics that impact on a claim for compensation. 

What Causes Machinery Accidents?

Machinery accidents are often the result of negligence, either on the part of employers, manufacturers, or both. Common causes include:

• Inadequate training: Employers rushing workers into operating machinery without sufficient instruction.
• Poor maintenance: Machines not inspected or repaired regularly, leading to breakdowns or malfunctions.
• Defective machinery: Manufacturing flaws that make equipment inherently dangerous.
• Lack of personal protective equipment (PPE): Employers failing to provide or enforce the use of proper safety gear.
• Unsafe work practices: Cutting corners on safety to prioritise productivity, leaving workers vulnerable.

Common Injuries in Machinery Accidents

Some of the most common injuries we see include:

• Crush injuries: Often caused by entanglement in moving parts.
• Amputations: A tragic outcome of severe machinery incidents.
• Lacerations and cuts: Resulting from contact with sharp edges or exposed blades.
• Burns and electrocution: Caused by faulty wiring, exposed circuits, or overheated machinery.
• Eye injuries: Flying debris or dislodged parts can lead to vision impairment or blindness.
• Lung damage: Inhalation of toxic fumes from malfunctioning machines.

Legal Framework for Machinery Safety

In Ireland, workplace safety is governed by the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005 and related regulations. Employers are legally obligated to:

• Provide and maintain safe machinery and equipment.
• Ensure regular maintenance and inspections are conducted.
• Implement adequate training programmes for all employees.
• Supply proper PPE and enforce its use.
• Conduct risk assessments and establish safety protocols.

When these obligations are ignored, the results can be serious. 

Who Can Make a Claim?

Claims are not limited to any specific categories of people. You may have grounds to file a claim if:

• You were a contractor or temporary worker injured by faulty machinery.
• You were visiting a workplace and injured due to negligence.
• You are a family member of someone fatally injured in a machinery accident.

Compensation for Faulty Machinery Accidents

Compensation for faulty machinery accidents typically falls into two categories:

• General damages: Covering pain, suffering, and loss of quality of life.
• Special damages: Reimbursing out-of-pocket expenses, including medical expenses (past and future), rehabilitation and therapy costs, loss of income and earning potential, costs for home modifications or specialised care equipment, etc. 

Why Choose Good & Murray Smith LLP?

Here’s what makes us different:

• Proven expertise: We have over a century of experience in securing life-changing compensation for countless clients.
• Disputes specialists: Unlike other firms, disputes are all we do. 
• Comprehensive support: From gathering evidence to negotiating with insurers or representing you in court, we handle every aspect of your claim.
• Focus on results: Our priority is to maximise your compensation.

What to Do After a Machinery Accident

If you’ve been injured by faulty machinery, acting quickly can strengthen your claim. After seeking medical attention, you should consider: 

• Reporting the incident: Notify your employer and ensure the accident is logged in the workplace incident book.
• Documenting the scene: Take photos of the machinery, your injuries, and any visible hazards.
• Identifying witnesses: Collect contact details for anyone who witnessed the accident.
• Contacting a solicitor: Speak to us as soon as possible to begin building a strong case.

Time Limits for Filing a Claim

Under Irish law, you generally have two years from the date of the accident or the date you became aware of your injuries to file a claim. For minors, this time limit begins on their 18th birthday. Acting promptly ensures critical evidence isn’t lost over time.