When going to work, every employee wants to complete their daily tasks safely and then be able to get back home to their families. Unfortunately, in many instances, accidents happen at work, and this can be very distressing, turning employees’ lives upside down. In Ireland, 58 work-related deaths in 2025, highlighting the major impact of such incidents on Irish workers. Some of the reasons why these accidents happen include slips, trips and falls, being struck by moving vehicles or objects, exposure to dangerous substances, or machinery accidents.
If you’ve been a victim of a workplace accident, besides the injury sustained, you may worry about how your employer will handle the incident. It’s paramount to know your rights and act swiftly, but the process can be complex, especially when you lack legal knowledge. To help you navigate the process, we will answer some of the most common questions you may have after suffering an injury at work, so read on to learn more.
Image source: https://unsplash.com/photos/a-man-in-an-orange-safety-vest-and-a-man-in-a-blue-helmet-uVPIITP1sLQ
What are your employer’s responsibilities towards you?
If your employer neglects the legislation that protects you while you are at work, and you sustain an injury because of it, you have the right to seek compensation for your suffering and distress. But the claim against them should meet specific criteria. Here are some of the responsibilities that your employer has towards you:
- To ensure that the work environment is safe(including any off site work);
- To ensure all reasonable measures are in place to reduce the risk of injuries while you carry out the tasks you are asked to;
- To warn employees about any potential dangers through adequate “hazard” signs’
- To have measures in place that control the exposure to any dangerous substances present in the workplace;
- To have an emergency plan in place if an accident at work happens;
- To ensure adequate training of first-aiders;
- To securely store and handle all materials and items;
- To conduct regular risk assessments of the work environment.
What should you do after sustaining an injury at work?
After suffering an injury, it’s essential to take action immediately and report the accident to the employer through the established reporting procedures, such as the accident book.
Make sure you seek immediate medical care for your injuries and gather evidence of the unsafe conditions that caused any of your physical injuries. Taking photos of the accident will serve as evidence and will be very useful if you decide to make a claim against your employer. If you tripped over loose wires, for instance, you could take a photo of them as proof. After being injured, you have the right to make a personal injury claim, as long as your employer was at fault. In many instances, employees worry what could happen to them if they take this step, but you shouldn’t let this prevent you from taking action. Employers must have insurance that covers personal injury claims, which handles all the compensation payouts and legal costs, meaning that you won’t have to deal with any financial burden.
What can you include in an accident at work claim?
Compensation for workplace injuries falls into two categories: general damages, and special damages, allowing you to claim for the following:
- The suffering your injuries caused you (not just physical, but also psychological);
- The cost associated with the medical treatment, including consultation fees, laboratory tests, prescriptions, surgical and non-surgical procedures, and any therapies, whether psychiatric treatment, physiotherapy or rehabilitation;
- Any loss of earnings during the recovery;
- Loss of future income in case you won’t be able to work again;
- Any work-related perks, whether a promotion or bonuses;
- Home adaptations, if needed;
- Care costs, in case you need help after sustaining an injury;
- All of the other costs that can be associated with the workplace injuries you have suffered.
The process of learning your legal rights and suing an employer can be complex, and if you feel confused or overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to contact a personal injury lawyer who has expertise to support workers with all the legal aspects.
Can you be fired for having a workplace accident?
Many employees hesitate to file a claim against their employer, because they worry about the consequences, including the risk of losing their job. From a legal perspective, you can’t be dismissed for experiencing an accident – unless the reason why you sustained an injury was your negligence. Suppose the accident was partly your fault, partly the fault of your employee; it could be possible to challenge the decision of dismissing you from your role.
In the situation you were not at fault for the accident, your employer doesn’t have any right to dismiss you. If they do, this may represent unfair dismissal, and in this case, you have the right to take legal action against them.
Can you be paid during your recovery after sustaining an injury at work?
Suppose your workplace injuries don’t allow you to work anymore, and you need time off to recover; you could receive extensive free time. But make sure to check your employment contract, because in many instances, your employer could have agreed to pay your sick day and any benefits if you require time off work to heal from injuries suffered at the workplace.
If you’ve been injured at work, a personal injury lawyer can make all the difference
Suffering an injury at work leaves you feeling all sorts of feelings that are hard to put into words. During this time, it’s important to focus on your physical and emotional recovery, so the last thing you need on your plate is dealing with the complex legal aspects. Thankfully, a personal injury lawyer can take the burden off your shoulders, so it’s highly recommended to work with them.
The job of a legal professional is to protect your best interest from the very beginning, so they will use their expertise to make sure you will get the compensation you desire. If your case needs to be sent to court, you’ll have someone by your side to represent you every step of the way. This way, you will get peace of mind and be able to rest and recover rather than worry about the outcome of your claim.