Animal law specialist James McNally answers the question, ‘Can a vet claim compensation for being injured by an animal?’
Working with animals, whether on farms or in local communities, exposes vets and veterinary nurses to various risks, including kicks, bites, and crush injuries. According to statistics from the British Veterinary Association (BVA) and the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), over half of farm vets and a significant number of local community vets suffer injuries at work each year. These injuries can range from minor bruises to severe fractures and may have long-lasting physical and emotional consequences. Shockingly, the agriculture sector ranks as the most dangerous industry to work in, with a significantly higher worker fatal injury rate compared to other sectors. Equine vets are also at high risk, with a 2014 study showing that they are more likely to sustain injuries at work than firefighters, police officers, or members of the prison service.
For vets and veterinary nurses working in the local community, maintaining strong relationships with clients is essential. However, the fear of upsetting long-standing clients or employers can often deter vets from pursuing personal injury claims. Vets and veterinary nurses may worry about damaging their reputation or causing tension with clients who have trusted them for years. Despite these concerns, it’s crucial for vets and veterinary nurses to prioritize their own well-being and consider the long-term impact that these injuries could have on their livelihood and health.
Injuries sustained on the job can have a devastating effects on a vet’s ability to work and their financial stability. Making a personal injury claim can provide much needed compensation to cover medical expenses, lost income, and rehabilitation costs. Additionally, legal action holds responsible parties accountable for negligence and promotes safer working environments for all veterinarians and veterinary nurses.
Under the law in England and Wales, anyone has the right to seek compensation for injuries sustained at work due to the negligence of others. Whether the injury occurred on a farm, in a local clinic, or during an emergency call-out, vets and veterinary nurses may be entitled to pursue a claim for damages. Consulting with experienced solicitors who specialise in personal injury claims for vets will give you the guidance and support needed to navigate the legal process effectively.
Slee Blackwell Solicitors are award-winning personal injury lawyers and are recognised in the prestigious Legal 500 as leaders in the field of recovering compensation for victims of animal related accidents. We have successfully acted for vets and veterinary nurses injured by cattle, horses, dogs and cats, recovering compensation not just for the injuries they suffered but also for the impact injury has had on their careers. As well as lost earnings we have successfully recovered compensation for those whose psychological injuries have meant they have been unable to continue ro work with particular animals or in certain circumstances again.
Our expertise and experience in dealing with these types of claim means we have a greater understanding, not just in relation to the law (which gives us an unrivalled success rate) but also on the impact such accidents and injuries can have on those in the veterinary profession.
Accidents and injuries are an unfortunate reality for veterinarians, but they do not have to face the aftermath alone. By working with Slee Blackwell Solicitors to understand their legal rights and options for seeking compensation, vets and veterinary nurses can take control of their future and ensure they receive the support they need to recover fully.
We are committed to helping those in the veterinary profession to obtain the justice they deserve.
Contact us today to learn more about, ‘Can a vet claim compensation for being injured by an animal?’ We provide free case assessments and no win, no fee funding,
