Employer denies liability for my work accident: what next?

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 — see our related guide

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