Working on a farm can be rewarding, but it is also one of the most dangerous jobs in the UK. Farm work often involves heavy machinery, livestock, chemicals, and long hours outdoors. Because of this, accidents on farms are sadly common. If you have been injured on a farm, you may be wondering: Do I get any compensation for farm injury claims?
The simple answer is yes, you may be able to claim compensation if the accident was not your fault. This article will guide you through how farm injury claims work, what you could receive, and what steps to take.
What Is A Farm Injury Claim?
A farm injury claim is when you ask for compensation after being hurt while working on, or visiting, a farm. The money you receive is meant to cover the pain you have suffered and any financial losses caused by the accident.
To succeed in your claim, you need to show that someone else had a duty to keep you safe, that they failed in this duty, and that you were injured as a result.
Can I Claim Compensation As A Farm Worker?
Yes, you can. Employers have a legal duty of care under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974. This duty applies to all farm workers, including full-time staff, seasonal workers, agency staff, and even those on zero-hours contracts.
Your employer must:
- Give you proper training.
- Provide protective equipment (such as gloves, boots, masks, or helmets).
- Make sure machinery and vehicles are safe.
- Follow safety laws, such as the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 and Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 (COSHH).
If your employer fails to do these things and you are injured, they could be held responsible. For example, if you hurt your hand because of faulty machinery or you are exposed to harmful chemicals without proper protection, you may be entitled to compensation.
Can Visitors To Farms Claim Compensation?
Many farms now welcome visitors through farm shops, tours, and family days out. If you were hurt as a visitor, you could also make a claim.
The law that applies here is the Occupiers’ Liability Act 1957. This says the owner or occupier of a farm must take reasonable care to make sure visitors are safe.
For example, if you trip over a broken fence, slip on a wet floor, or are injured by unsafe equipment, you may have a valid claim.
What Kind Of Injuries Can Lead To A Claim?
On farms, injuries can range from minor to life-changing. Common examples include:
- Broken bones and fractures from falls or machinery accidents.
- Cuts and lacerations from tools or sharp objects.
- Sprains and muscle injuries from heavy lifting.
- Burns or chemical injuries from fertilisers, pesticides, or machinery.
- Animal-related injuries such as bites, kicks, or crush injuries from livestock.
- Head, back, and spinal injuries which can cause long-term problems.
- Serious accidents like being struck by vehicles, falling from heights, or being trapped under collapsing structures.
Even if your injury seems small, it may still affect your work and daily life. It is always worth checking if you can make a claim.
Can I Claim If I Was Injured By A Farm Animal?
Yes, you can in some cases. If a farm animal injures you because it was not properly controlled, the farmer may be responsible. For example, if cattle were not secured or there were no warning signs about aggressive animals, you may be able to claim.
However, farm work is known to involve risks, especially when working with animals. If the farm owner took all reasonable precautions, you may not be successful in your claim. Speaking to a solicitor can help you understand where you stand.
Are There Time Limits For Making A Farm Injury Claim?
Yes. Under the Limitation Act 1980, you usually have three years from the date of the accident to start your claim.
There are some exceptions:
- Children: If a child is injured, an adult can claim on their behalf at any time until the child turns 18. After turning 18, the child has three years (until their 21st birthday) to claim.
- Lack of mental capacity: If the injured person cannot make a claim themselves due to mental capacity issues, a litigation friend (such as a family member) can do so at any time. If they later regain capacity, their three-year period begins then.
If you are unsure about deadlines, it is best to seek advice as soon as possible.
What Types Of Farm Accidents Can I Claim For?
Farm accidents can happen in many ways. Some of the most common include:
- Being struck by a moving vehicle, such as a tractor.
- Getting caught in defective machinery.
- Falling from barns, ladders, or roofs.
- Slipping or tripping on uneven ground.
- Being struck by falling objects, such as hay bales.
- Electrical accidents involving overhead power lines.
- Drowning or suffocation in enclosed or hazardous spaces.
- Injuries caused by livestock.
If you suffered an accident like these, and it was due to someone else’s fault, you could claim compensation.
How Much Compensation Could I Receive?
The amount you receive depends on the seriousness of your injury and how it affects your life. Compensation is usually divided into two parts:
General damages
This covers the pain, suffering, and loss of enjoyment caused by your injury. To calculate this, lawyers and courts look at guidelines from the Judicial College Guidelines (JCG). For example:
- Severe brain injury: £344,150 – £493,000
- Serious leg injury: £66,920 – £109,290
- Severe back injury: £90,510 – £107,910
- Serious damage to both hands: £68,070 – £103,200
- Severe ankle injury: £38,210 – £61,090
Every case is different, so these figures are only guides.
Special damages
This covers financial losses caused by the accident, such as:
- Lost wages if you cannot work.
- Medical bills and rehabilitation costs.
- Travel costs for hospital or doctor visits.
- Care costs if you need help with daily tasks.
You will need to keep records, such as payslips, receipts, or invoices, to prove these expenses.
Do I Need A Solicitor?
You do not have to use a solicitor, but having one can make the process much easier. A solicitor can:
- Tell you if you have a strong case.
- Gather evidence and medical reports.
- Handle negotiations with insurers.
- Represent you in court if necessary.
Many solicitors offer a No Win No Fee agreement. This means you do not pay if your claim is unsuccessful. If you win, the solicitor takes a percentage from your compensation as their fee.
What Should I Do After A Farm Accident?
If you have been injured, here are some steps to strengthen your case:
- Get medical treatment straight away and keep records of your injuries.
- Report the accident to your employer or the farm owner.
- Collect evidence, such as photographs, witness statements, or accident reports.
- Keep receipts and payslips to show your financial losses.
- Seek legal advice as soon as possible to avoid missing deadlines.
Why Making A Claim Is Important
Some people worry about making a claim, especially against their employer. However, employers must have insurance for these situations. Your claim is usually paid by the insurance company, not directly by your employer.
By claiming, you can:
- Cover your financial losses.
- Get support for medical care and recovery.
- Highlight safety issues that may prevent others from being injured in future.
Final Thoughts
So, do you get any compensation for farm injury claims? Yes, you may be entitled to compensation if someone else was at fault for your accident. Whether you were a worker or a visitor, the law provides protection and a route to claim for your injuries.
Compensation can help you recover from the financial and personal impact of the accident. Acting quickly and getting professional advice will give you the best chance of success.