Orthopaedic injury and negligence solicitors

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Orthopaedic injury and negligence solicitors

For finding answers and getting justice

If you’ve suffered an orthopaedic injury because of medical negligence or an accident that wasn’t your fault, you may be entitled to claim compensation. Orthopaedic injuries, affecting your bones, joints, muscles, tendons or ligaments , can be painful, life-changing, and often take a long time to recover from.

At Switalskis, we understand the impact these injuries can have on your work, family life and emotional wellbeing. Our role is to guide you through the claims process with compassion and expertise, helping you secure the compensation you need for your recovery and future.

Our specialist orthopaedic claims solicitors in Yorkshire are based across Leeds, Huddersfield, Sheffield, York and the wider Yorkshire region. We also have a team in London, earning a strong reputation for delivering practical, supportive legal advice and providing an exceptional standard of service to every client.

The team are proudly featured in the Legal 500 and Chambers & Partners as a recommended firm, highlighting our trusted professionalism in handling cases.

If you're prepared to take the first step towards rightful compensation and resolution, Switalskis experienced orthopaedic claims team is ready to accompany you every step of the way.

To speak to one of our specialist orthopaedic injury and negligence claims solicitors about your situation in confidence, call us on 0800 1380 458 , or contact us through the website.

Reach out to our specialist orthopaedic injury and negligence claims today for a free, no-obligation consultation by calling 0800 1380 458, or contacting us through the website.

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How Switalskis orthopaedic claims solicitors can help you

At Switalskis, our specialist solicitors have extensive experience supporting people with orthopaedic injury claims, whether caused by medical negligence, workplace accidents, road traffic accidents, or accidents in public places.

Our solicitors are specialists in medical negligence claims. Many are accredited by the Law Society and AvMA (Action Against Medical Accidents). We explain complex medical and legal issues in clear, simple terms, so you always feel informed and supported.

We understand that a claim is about more than compensation. For many families it’s about:

  • Getting answers and a full investigation into your care
  • Receiving an apology for what went wrong
  • Securing compensation to cover lifelong care, therapy and adaptations

Where possible, we seek interim payments to ease financial pressure and fund urgent support. Most of our cases are funded through no win, no fee agreements, meaning you pay nothing unless your claim is successful.

We know that every case is unique. That’s why we take the time to understand how your injury has affected your life and fight for compensation that reflects your individual circumstances.

Our medical negligence team accreditations

Read what our clients had to say about the help they received from Switalskis

Types of orthopaedic injury claims

Orthopaedic injuries can happen in many different situations. Some are the result of accidents, while others are caused by mistakes in medical treatment. The most common causes we see include:

  • Medical negligence – errors during diagnosis, surgery or follow-up care that cause avoidable complications such as mobility problems, nerve damage or repeated fractures.
  • Workplace accidents – injuries linked to heavy lifting, repetitive tasks or unsafe machinery, often leading to back injuries, fractures or joint damage.
  • Road traffic accidents – collisions involving cars, lorries, motorcycles, bicycles and pedestrians often result in serious orthopaedic injuries such as broken bones, dislocated shoulders or spinal damage.
  • Slips, trips and falls – accidents in public spaces, shops, or at work can cause fractures, dislocations and ligament injuries.
  • Sports and recreational accidents – inadequate supervision, faulty equipment or unsafe facilities can result in injuries such as ACL tears, rotator cuff damage or stress fractures.
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How Switalskis support orthopaedic claims

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At Switalskis, we see the impact of these injuries first-hand. We work with athletes whose careers and futures have been put at risk due to inadequate medical care and mismanagement.

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Orthopaedic Injury and Negligence Compensation Claims

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the symptoms of orthopaedic injuries?

The symptoms of an orthopaedic injury will depend on the part of your body that’s affected and how severe the injury is. Some of the most common signs include:

  • Persistent pain – this may be a dull ache or sharp, intense pain in the affected area.
  • Swelling and bruising – which can limit your movement and flexibility.
  • Stiffness and reduced mobility – making everyday activities more difficult.
  • Numbness or tingling – a possible sign of nerve damage.
  • Visible deformity – such as a bone or joint looking out of place after a fracture or dislocation.

In some cases, symptoms may improve as your body heals. But if they worsen over time or prevent you from moving normally, it’s important to seek medical advice straight away.

What is an orthopaedic injury claim?

An orthopaedic injury claim is a legal claim for compensation when you’ve suffered an injury to your bones, joints, ligaments, muscles or tendons because of someone else’s negligence. This could be due to errors in your medical treatment, unsafe working conditions, a road traffic accident or a public accident.

Can I claim for orthopaedic injuries?

You may be able to claim compensation if your orthopaedic injury was caused by someone else’s negligence. This could include:

  • Medical negligence – mistakes in diagnosis, surgery or aftercare that made your injury worse or caused new problems. Contact our medical negligence solicitors for more information.
  • Accidents at work – injuries caused by unsafe working conditions, heavy lifting, faulty equipment or repetitive strain. Contact our accident at work claim team for more information.
  • Road traffic accidents – whether you were driving, a passenger, cyclist, motorcyclist or pedestrian, you may wish to make a motorcycle accident claim, cycling accident claim or a road traffic accident claim, depending on the type of accident.
  • Accidents in public places – such as slips, trips or falls where safety standards weren’t met. Contact our public liability team for more information.

The amount of compensation you could receive depends on the seriousness of your injury and how it affects your life. As well as damages for pain and suffering, you may be able to claim for lost earnings, medical treatment, rehabilitation, and any changes you need to make to your home or daily routine.

How are orthopaedic injuries treated?

Treatment for orthopaedic injuries depends on the type of injury and how severe it is. The aim is always to reduce pain, support healing and help you regain as much movement and independence as possible. Common treatments include:

  • Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation (RICE) – often used immediately after an injury to reduce swelling and pain.
  • Rehabilitation programmes – ongoing support after surgery or serious injury to restore function and help you return to everyday activities.
  • Physiotherapy – tailored exercises to rebuild strength, flexibility and mobility.
  • Pain management – medication or other treatments to ease discomfort during recovery.
  • Immobilisation – using a cast, splint or brace to keep the injured area still so it can heal.
  • Surgery – sometimes needed for more complex injuries, such as repairing broken bones, torn ligaments or damaged joints.

How much time do i have to make an orthopaedic injury claim?

In most cases, you have three years from the date of your orthopaedic injury to make a claim for compensation. This is known as the limitation period.

For medical negligence claims, the three-year period usually starts from the date you knew, or could reasonably have known, that your injury was caused by someone else’s mistake. This means some injuries may allow you extra time if the effects only became apparent later.

There are exceptions, especially for children or people who lack mental capacity, where the time limits may be extended.

Because these deadlines can be complex, it’s important to speak to a specialist orthopaedic injury solicitor as soon as possible to ensure your claim is valid and submitted on time.

What is the most common orthopaedic injury?

Some of the most common orthopaedic injuries are fractures (broken bones) , particularly in the arms, legs and hips. These injuries often happen after falls, road traffic accidents or workplace incidents. Other frequent orthopaedic problems include:

  • Dislocations – when a bone is forced out of its joint, often affecting shoulders, knees or fingers.
  • Ligament injuries – such as anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears, commonly linked to sports or sudden twists.
  • Repetitive strain injuries – including carpal tunnel syndrome, caused by repeated movements at work.
  • Soft tissue injuries – such as sprains or tendon damage, which can affect mobility and cause long-term pain.

While fractures are the most common, the impact of any orthopaedic injury depends on how severe it is and how much it affects your day-to-day life.

How much does it cost to make an orthopaedic injury claim?

At Switalskis, we aim to make the claims process as straightforward and stress-free as possible. Many orthopaedic injury claims are handled on a no win, no fee basis. This means:

  • You won’t pay legal fees upfront.
  • If your claim is successful, a small agreed percentage is deducted from your compensation to cover legal costs.
  • If your claim is not successful, you don’t pay anything.

We will explain all costs clearly at the start, so there are no surprises. Our goal is to ensure that financial concerns don’t stop you from getting the support and compensation you deserve.

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Understanding the medical negligence claims process

Initiating a medical negligence claim can seem daunting. We strive to make this process as straightforward and stress-free as possible for you. Our goal is to bring clarity to the complex and to guide you seamlessly through each step.

Step 1: Initial consultation

Reach out to Switalskis for a free, no obligation initial consultation. During this meeting, we’ll listen to your story, understand your concerns and explain whether we think you have a strong case. If we decide to proceed, we can then discuss the next steps and the available funding options.

Step 2: Establishing your claim

We’ll gather all the relevant information we need to build your case. This will include applying for all of your medical records, including your GP records. We’ll ask you for photographs, receipts and any other documents that may support your claim. We will take detailed witness statements to tell your version of events. We may arrange for you to be assessed by an independent medical expert to provide an unbiased view of your injuries and future prognosis. The aim will be to prove the negligence was responsible for your injury and consider the potential value of the claim.

Step 3: Notifying the defendant

Once we have supportive evidence, we’ll send a letter of claim to the doctor and/or hospital involved. This will outline details of the claim and state allegations regarding the negligent treatment.

Step 4: Defendant response

The defendant will then have four months to investigate the allegations made against them and respond to the letter of claim, which is known as a letter of response. The letter will include whether the defendant accepts they are at fault. This is called an admission of liability. If they do not accept fault, they will state this in the letter and this is called a denial of liability. We will advise you of the next steps at this stage.

Step 5: Settlement and compensation

If the defendant or practice has admitted fault, negotiations can start. Our medical negligence solicitors will negotiate on your behalf, using our expertise and experience to secure the highest possible compensation amount for you. At this stage, we will discuss how much compensation you may receive. This will be calculated to cover the pain and suffering caused by the negligence, as well as any financial losses or expenses you’ve experienced as a result.

Step 6: Court proceedings (where necessary)

Most claims will be settled through negotiation, without needing to go to court. In the rare instances where the case does go to trial, you can trust us to represent you throughout the process.

Throughout the claims process, our team of medical negligence lawyers is by your side, explaining each stage, answering your questions, and providing the support and advice you need. At Switalskis, we believe that legal jargon should never be a barrier to justice, and we're committed to keeping you informed and confident every step of the way.

Contact our specialised orthopaedic injury team today and let's start your journey towards recovery together. Call us today on 0800 1380 458, or get in touch via our form.

Our medical negligence claims specialists

Photo of Richard Starkie
Richard StarkieDirector and Solicitor
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Suzanne MunroeDirector and Solicitor
Photo of Sarah Walker
Sarah WalkerDirector and Solicitor
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Kimberley BradfieldAssociate Solicitor
Photo of Charlotte Reeves
Charlotte ReevesDirector and Solicitor
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Why Switalskis?

Navigating through medical negligence can be daunting and emotionally distressing. In such instances, a reliable and experienced ally by your side is invaluable, which is precisely where Switalskis can step in.

Clarity in complexity

Medical negligence cases can often be complicated, but it doesn’t need to be. We’re committed to making legal jargon easily accessible. We strive to answer your queries, simplify the complex and ensure that you have a clear understanding of each step in the process.

Empathy at every step

We take time to fully understand your unique circumstances. Listening to your concerns, acknowledging your emotions and providing careful advice tailored to your specific needs is part of our approach. You’re more than a client to us - you're an individual facing a difficult situation, and we’re here to extend our wholehearted support.

Expertise you can trust

When handling a matter as significant as a medical negligence case, it's crucial to have trusted experts by your side. At Switalskis, we bring together decades of expertise and a proven record in medical negligence claims. We’re dedicated to advocating for your rights and achieving the most favourable outcome for you and your loved ones.

Many of our solicitors hold accreditations from the Law Society and AvMA (Action Against Medical Accidents) , recognising their expertise in the field

Championing your rights

Our team is committed to upholding your rights and making sure your voice is heard. We’ll guide you through every aspect of the claims process, ensuring you're well-informed and confident in making the right decisions. With Switalskis, it's more than just a claim; it's a quest for justice and your rightful compensation.

FAQs about medical negligence claims

On what grounds can you make a claim for medical negligence?

Making a claim for medical negligence is based upon two essential grounds:

  • Breach of duty: You'll first need to demonstrate that the healthcare professional or institution, such as your doctor or the NHS, breached their duty of care to you. This means that the medical care you received fell below the standard you could reasonably expect from a competent professional in the same field.
  • Causation: Secondly, you'll need to show that this breach of duty directly led to your injury or the worsening of your condition. It's not enough to simply demonstrate negligent treatment - you must be able to link this directly to the harm you experienced.

Given these complex requirements, many people find it incredibly beneficial to engage a specialist medical negligence solicitor. Here at Switalskis, we can guide you through this process, utilising our wealth of experience in medical negligence claims to give your case the best possible chance of success.

Will I need to attend a medical examination when I start my medical negligence claim?

In most cases of medical negligence claims, undergoing an independent medical examination is a crucial part of the process.

An independent medical examination is typically conducted by a medical expert who is not involved in your care. This assessment helps to evaluate your current health status and to establish a clear link between the negligence you experienced and the harm you've suffered.

During this examination, the expert will evaluate your medical history, the treatment you've received, and the impacts these have had on your life. They will then provide an impartial report, which is used as a key piece of evidence in your claim.

Do I need a solicitor for medical negligence?

You're not required by law to have a solicitor for a medical negligence claim. However, these cases are often very complex and involve a high level of detail that requires professional legal knowledge to navigate effectively. A specialist solicitor, such as the highly experienced team here at Switalskis, can make a substantial difference to your case.

We bring clarity to what can seem like a legal maze, breaking down the process into understandable steps. Our solicitors are extremely experienced in managing NHS and private medical negligence claims and are well-versed in the medical language and procedures that can be key to the success of your case.

Remember, you're not just making a claim - you're telling your story. Our team is here not only to provide expert legal advice but also to support you emotionally through what can be a tough process. We aim to get you the medical negligence compensation you rightfully deserve, and perhaps just as importantly, to ensure your experience is heard and recognised.

So, while it's not compulsory to have a legal representative, the right solicitor will make your medical negligence claim a much smoother, less complicated process, and potentially more likely to be successful.

For definitions of terms used in these FAQs, visit our Glossary page

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We can support you in the following medical negligence situations

Find out how Switalskis can help you

If you believe that you or a loved one have been a victim of medical negligence, it's crucial to take that first step towards justice. Switalskis is here to guide you through the process, providing expert advice, emotional support and strong representation.

Contact Switalskis today by calling 0800 1380 458 or getting in touch with us through the website to discuss your concerns in confidence with a legal specialist.

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