Why do employers and their insurers deny liability?
Cover: insurer's duty to investigate; common defences including contributory negligence, no breach of duty, and causation disputes
What does "liability" mean in a work accident claim?
Explain the three elements: duty, breach, causation
What happens under the EL/PL Protocol after a denial?
21-day acknowledgement, 3-month investigation period, requirement to provide reasons, Stage 3 court process if still disputed
What evidence can overcome a denial of liability?
Accident book, photographs, witnesses, risk assessments (obtained via disclosure), HSE notices, medical records
What if the insurer blames you instead (contributory negligence)?
Explain partial fault — link to /guides/partly-my-fault
What if the denial is made in bad faith or without proper investigation?
Court can draw adverse inferences; costs penalties for unreasonable conduct under CPR 44
How long does a disputed liability claim take?
6–24 months from letter of claim to settlement or trial
Does a denial mean your claim will fail?
No — statistics show most claims settle before trial
Can you claim? Find out in four quick steps.
Enquiries may be referred to SRA-regulated UK solicitor firms where appropriate. No win, no fee is subject to solicitor assessment of your individual case.
0800 000 0000Where did the accident happen?
Pick the setting closest to your situation.
Sources
- PreAction Protocol for Personal Injury Claims (Ministry of Justice)
- PreAction Protocol for Low Value Personal Injury (Employers' Liability and Public Liability) Claims
- Civil Procedure Rules Part 44 (costs and conduct)
- Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974
This guide is editorial information about UK law. It is not legal advice and does not create a solicitor–client relationship. For advice on your circumstances, speak to a regulated personal-injury solicitor.