When to Report an Accident at Work: Protect Your Rights Now

When to report an accident at work
when to report an accident at work

When to Report an Accident at Work: Protect Your Rights Now

Unsure when to report an accident at work? Same-day reporting, RIDDOR deadlines, and avoiding late claims can safeguard your rights and compensation.

Accidents in the workplace can occur unexpectedly. Therefore, knowing when to report an accident at work is important for protecting your rights and ensuring proper legal representation. Any accidents you may have sustained, the proud leader of Claim Today, DS Bal, has assisted clients in obtaining compensation recovery of up to £8.6 million, and the need to report as soon as possible is  important while proceeding with your claim.

Understanding the reporting process and possible implications of reporting late could be a significant factor in your claim.

Expert guide : What To Do If an Accident Happens at Work?

Do I Need to Report an Accident at Work on the Same Day?

If you suffer from a work-related injury, and want to know when to report an accident at work, it is important to report the injury the same day whenever possible. Reporting the injury that same day will ensure accuracy of the details while the incident is fresh in memory. Reporting prevents any disagreement on what happened and allows the employer to take steps to improve safety in the workplace. You should also report minor injustices, as those may indicate a bigger safety issue has occurred. 

Learn more about What is the most common accident at work

When to Report an Accident at Work: RIDDOR Timeline

Under RIDDOR (Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations)

Employers are legally required to report certain work related injuries, illnesses, and dangerous occurrences to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). Serious Injuries , accidents resulting in more than seven days off work, and cases where a worker has a fatal accident or hospitalized.

Even though some severe accidents require reporting immediately , reporting must typically happen within 10 days for most incidents. Knowing the RIDDOR timeline helps both employees and employers comply with the law and ensures proper investigation of serious accidents.

For official guidance on reporting workplace accident, visit the HSE RIDDOR page

What are late reporting consequences?

What happens if I report the accident late? Will I still be allowed to claim? 

Late reporting can have consequences for an injured worker and the employer. Late reporting could: 

  • Jeopardize your compensation claim 
  • Make it more difficult to collect evidence or witness statements
  • Cause potential legal issues for the employer e.g. penalties under RIDDOR
  • Delay improvement to the safety performance of the workplace and potentially put others at risk.

Types of Accidents You Should Report

Occupational accidents can vary from slips, trips, and falls to machinery injuries or exposure to any hazardous substance. Even if it seems minor, it is good practice to report it. Certain conditions, including repetitive strain injuries or occupational illnesses, may take time to develop, and reporting them early gives you an opportunity to document the situation.

Why Acting Quickly Matters?

DS Bal and the team at Claim Today recommend reporting accidents right away. Quick action preserves evidence, strengthens your claim, and increases the chances of receiving compensation you deserve. Timely reporting also demonstrates responsibility and professionalism , which can support your case if legal proceedings are necessary. 

Don’t Delay ! Claim Today

If you’ve experienced an accident at work, don’t wait. Reporting the incident and seeking expert legal guidance from professionals like DS Bal can make all the difference in achieving a successful outcome. Your health, safety, and legal rights are too important to be delayed.

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About Author

Written by DS Bal, solicitor admitted 1997. Founder of Legal 500 Leading Firm Claim Today
Solicitors and Legal TV (UK’s first interactive legal channel). Cabinet Office Customer Service
Excellence Award winner. Over 30 years helping injury victims across England and Wales. £8.6
million recovered in a single year. Available in 17+ languages.