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Crush injury claims

A crush injury can have life-changing consequences, and we know this must feel really difficult. But you don’t have to face this alone. You may be able to make a compensation claim, and access specialist rehabilitation support – with the help of our expert team.

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Author

Victoria Marsden

Director of Legal Excellence

Reviewer

Stephen Hussey

Associate, Head of Personal Injury

Last Updated

19th July 2026

Can I make a crush injury claim?

It’s normal to question whether your injury was just an accident or something that could have been prevented. You may be able to make a claim if your crush injury was caused by someone else’s negligence – and our experts can help you understand if this was the case.

This might include unsafe working conditions, poorly maintained machinery, or a road traffic collision caused by another driver. Sometimes, serious crush injuries can happen when employees haven’t been given the proper training required for their role – employers may have missed mandatory safety measures, or equipment might be poorly maintained. These circumstances can all contribute to serious injuries.

For your case to be successful, we’ll need to prove that someone owed you a duty of care, and that they failed to meet it, which caused your injury as a result. Even if you’re unsure what happened, or feel partly responsible, it doesn’t mean you don’t have a case. Many people only realise later that their injury could have been avoided. Speaking to a specialist can help you understand your situation clearly and understand your options – with no pressure.

Example of a crush injury claim

For example, if an employee’s hand is crushed by machinery that had not been properly maintained or inspected. This could be a failure in an employer’s duty of care. In this situation, the injury might have been avoided if the correct procedures were followed, and the employee may have grounds for a crush injury claim.

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What compensation can help with

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Recovering lost income and covering future care.

A crush injury often needs long-term recovery, with support from a number of medical and professional services. When a crush injury affects your ability to work or carry out everyday tasks, the financial and emotional strain can build up quickly. Compensation can help you get the right support in place, to rebuild your life and reduce the pressure you may be feeling right now.

Compensation can help fund:

  • Specialist medical treatment
  • Surgery and any necessary procedures
  • Physiotherapy and longterm rehabilitation
  • Prosthetics, if you have suffered an amputation
  • Assistive equipment
  • Changes to your home to accommodate your mobility
  • Recovering lost earnings
  • Securing funds for the future and easing financial pressure
Understanding the potential value

Compensation depends on your individual circumstances, including how serious the injury is and how it affects your life, long-term. For example, one person we supported was crushed between his van and a forklift while at work. He suffered injuries that affected his mobility, and he needed a long-term rehabilitation plan to recover. His case settled for around £8,000.

Understanding interim payments

In complex and long-term cases, you often don’t need to wait until your case is settled to receive support. Where possible, we look to arrange interim payments so that you can access funds earlier. Interim payments can cover treatment, rehabilitation, and essential living costs – while your case is still ongoing.

Why choose Fletchers for your crush injury claim

Choosing the right firm matters when you’re dealing with a serious injury. We specialise in catastrophic and amputation-related claims, with expert solicitors and a full multidisciplinary approach. We know how important it is to fully understand your needs and build a case around your personal circumstances. Our team is recognised by The Legal 500 and Chambers & Partners – and we have a proven record of successful results. You can trust you’re in safe hands.

Expertise you can rely on

  • Specialist solicitors with experience in serious and catastrophic injury claims
  • Proven expertise in amputation and complex crush injury cases
  • Members of the Law Society Personal Injury Panel
  • Accredited by the Association of Personal Injury Lawyers (APIL)
  • Recognised in leading legal directories including Chambers and Partners and The Legal 500
  • Strong track record of securing highvalue settlements for complex injury claims

You’re not alone

We know you must feel really isolated.

Living with a serious injury is hard, especially when it feels like no one truly understands the impact it’s having on your life. Many of the people we support have felt the same way at the start of their case, and unsure how to move forward and what support they need.

When you opt for Fletchers, you’re choosing a team of crush injury claims solicitors dedicated to your case. Our specialists have a proven history of effectively managing numerous crush injury claims.

We’re honoured to be acknowledged among the leading lawyers in personal injury across the UK, and we emphasise providing a personal touch in our service. According to the Legal 500, we’re commended for our commitment to leveraging technology efficiently and for delivering a supportive, client-centric approach.

We know that the most important thing for you is moving forward from what happened to you. We have more than 40 years’ experience supporting people just like you. With Fletchers supporting you, you have a reliable partner ensuring you’re not navigating the path to justice alone.

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Rehabilitation support

We go beyond legal advice to support you, not just your case, making sure the right care and practical help are in place throughout the compensation claim process.

A message from our Rehabilitation and Wellbeing Team

We work alongside Fletchers Solicitors’ legal experts – listening carefully to your needs, helping you understand what support is available and creating a personalised recovery plan.

Led by rehabilitation manager Julie Chorlton, we bring together expertise across healthcare, therapy and welfare support, and can help arrange access to treatment and financial support. We also work with accredited mental health professionals, giving you and your family access to counselling quickly.

 

OUR REHABILITATION & WELLBEING TEAM

FAQs about crush injury claims

How long after a crush injury can I make a claim?

In most cases, you have three years from the date of your injury to start a crush injury claim. There are some exceptions to this rule however, for example, if the claim is being made on behalf of a child (under 18), the three-year period doesn’t start until they turn 18. Similarly, if the person who was injured lacks the mental capacity to manage their own legal affairs, the time limit may not apply in the same way.

Regardless of your circumstances, it’s important to seek legal advice as early as possible. The sooner you get in touch, the easier it is to gather evidence and build a strong case.

How long does a crush injury claim take?

The length of time a crush injury claim takes depends on how complex your case is, the severity of your injuries, and whether the other party accepts liability. Straightforward claims may be resolved in a matter of months; more complex cases involving serious or permanent injury can take longer.

We’ll keep you informed at every stage, so you always know what’s happening and what to expect next.

How do I start a crush injury claim?

The first step is to get in touch with our team for a free, no-obligation consultation. We’ll listen to what happened, ask about your injuries and how your life has been affected, and give you clear, honest advice about whether you have a claim and what your options are.

There’s nothing to pay upfront as we work on a No Win No Fee basis, so you can explore your options without any financial risk.

Do crush injury claims go to court?

Most crush injury claims are settled out of court through negotiation. We’ll aim to reach a fair settlement without the need for a court hearing, which is usually quicker and less stressful for you.

However, if the other party disputes liability or the settlement offered doesn’t reflect the true impact of your injury, we’re fully prepared to take your case to court and represent you every step of the way.

Who else can make a crush injury claim?

Sometimes the person who suffered the crush injury isn’t able to make a claim themselves, such as if the injury was severely disabling or fatal. In those circumstances, someone else may be able to claim on their behalf.

This includes a parent or guardian claiming on behalf of a child under 18, or someone acting as a litigation friend for a person who lacks the mental capacity to manage their own legal affairs.

How much does it cost to make a crush injury claim?

At Fletchers, we work on a No Win No Fee basis, which means there’s nothing to pay upfront. If your claim doesn’t succeed, you won’t owe us anything. If it does succeed, we’ll agree the percentage fee with you beforehand, so there are no surprises. You can pursue your claim without any financial risk.

What are the effects of a crush injury?

Crush injuries can cause serious, long-term physical harm. The clients we’ve supported have experienced significant muscle damage, broken bones (particularly in crush injuries to the hands and feet), and tissue and nerve damage that can lead to muscle wastage or loss of sensation.

In the most severe cases, amputation may be necessary to prevent further complications. The emotional and financial impact of these injuries can also be significant, affecting your ability to work and live independently.

How are crush injuries treated?

Treatment depends on the severity of the injury. Minor crush injuries such as a crushed finger can often be treated at a Minor Injuries Unit. More serious injuries may require surgery to repair damaged tissue and bones. In the most severe cases, where the damage is extensive, amputation may be necessary.

Whatever the level of treatment needed, it’s important to seek medical help promptly and follow the recommended care plan.

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