Written by Rick Gregory, Editorial Lead · Legal information checked in collaboration with Edward & Amaury Solicitors (SRA 800525) · June 2026 · ~4 min read
WorkClaim UK is a trading name of Edward and Amaury Limited (Edward & Amaury Solicitors), authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA 800525).
Quick Summary
- Knee injuries at work range from soft tissue strains to severe injuries requiring knee replacement
- The Judicial College Guidelines (18th edition, April 2026) value knee injuries in brackets from minor twisting and bruising injuries up to serious joint disruption requiring knee replacement
- Common causes: falls from height, twisting injuries during manual handling, machinery accidents, slip and trip falls
- Special damages can be substantial — physiotherapy, surgery, future care, and loss of earnings if you cannot return to a physical role
- The three-year limitation period runs from the date of accident or date of knowledge
How much compensation can you claim for a knee injury at work?
The Judicial College Guidelines group knee injuries into the following brackets, from least to most serious:
| Bracket | Typical features |
|---|---|
| Moderate (b)(ii) | Twisting, bruising or soft tissue injuries, including those that recover fully |
| Moderate (b)(i) | Dislocation, torn cartilage or meniscus causing minor ongoing instability, weakness or wasting |
| Severe (a)(iii) | Less severe injuries leaving continuing symptoms such as instability or limited movement |
| Severe (a)(ii) | Leg fracture into the knee joint, or similar, causing constant pain, limited movement or a risk of arthritis |
| Severe (a)(i) | Serious knee injury with disruption of the joint, gross ligament damage, lengthy treatment and considerable pain, often leading to knee replacement |
The Judicial College published the 18th edition of its guidelines on 9 April 2026, raising most brackets by about 8.26% to reflect inflation (DAC Beachcroft). We only publish bracket figures we have been able to check against a reliable published source for the new edition, so this page describes the brackets rather than quoting older, out-of-date amounts. A free case assessment will tell you where your injury is likely to sit.
What causes knee injuries at work?
The most common workplace causes:
- Falls from height — ladders, scaffolding, vehicle cabs
- Twisting injuries during manual handling, especially in confined spaces
- Slips and trips on wet or uneven surfaces
- Machinery accidents — including pallets, forklift forks, falling objects
- Repeated kneeling without proper kneepads in roles like flooring, plumbing, and care
Employer duties under PUWER 1998, the Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992, and the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 all apply.
What special damages can you claim?
- Past lost earnings — the difference between SSP and your normal wage
- Future lost earnings where the injury prevents a return to a physical role
- Surgery and rehabilitation costs, including private treatment to avoid NHS delays
- Aids and equipment — knee braces, crutches, mobility aids
- Home adaptations in serious cases involving stair access
- Care and assistance from family during recovery
What evidence is needed?
An accident book entry, A&E records, MRI imaging, the operation note (in arthroscopy or reconstruction cases), physiotherapy records, sicknotes, and payslips showing the wage loss. An orthopaedic surgeon's report from an independent medical expert will confirm the diagnosis, the link to the accident, and the prognosis.
Frequently asked questions
Can I claim for a torn meniscus from work?
Yes, where the tear was caused by a workplace incident — typically a twisting injury during lifting or a fall. Claims are valued in the moderate bracket where surgery is required and there are residual symptoms.
What if my knee will need a replacement in future?
Likely future surgery is factored into the general damages award and into special damages (cost of surgery, recovery period, lost earnings during recovery). A medical expert will estimate the probability and timing.
Can I claim if I had knee problems before the accident?
Yes, for the aggravation caused by the workplace accident. The medical expert quantifies the worsening attributable to the incident.
Find out what your knee injury claim is worth
Free case assessment — or call 01228 272395 to speak to Edward & Amaury Solicitors (SRA number: 800525).