Thousands of workers across the UK suffer an injury at work or develop a work-related illness every year. According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), in 2023/24, around 1.7 million people reported work-related ill health. Over 600,000 people also experienced non-fatal injuries. Tragically, in 2024/25, 124 workers lost their lives in work-related accidents.
These figures show that workplace injuries are more common than many people think.
However, many people are not aware that they still have rights. After an accident, it is common to feel unsure about what to do next. Many people also worry about their job and how their employer may react.
The truth is, UK law is there to protect you. If you’ve had an injury at work, you have clear legal rights and options available to you.
In this guide, we’ll explain your rights in simple terms and what steps you should take next.
What’s in this blog?
Here’s what you’ll learn from this guide:
- Your right to claim after an injury at work
- Can you be fired for an accident at work
- What if your employer tries to get around it
- What to do if you’re worried about your job after an injury
- Watch for signs of unfair treatment
- Do not hesitate to make a claim
- Worried about your job after an injury at work
- FAQs
Your right to claim after an injury at work
If you had an injury at work because of your employer’s negligence, you have the right to make a personal injury claim. This can happen when working conditions are unsafe or training is poor. It can also happen when employers do not carry out risk assessments or provide safe equipment.
Employers have a legal duty to protect their staff. Laws such as the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and the Employment Rights Act 1996 require them to keep employees safe. If an employer fails to keep you safe and causes an injury, you can make a workplace injury claim
Many people worry about how their employer will react. The law protects your rights after an injury at work, and your employer cannot treat you unfairly for making a claim.
Can you be fired for an accident at work?
No, your employer cannot dismiss you just because you have an accident at work.
Your employer cannot fire you just because you have an accident at work. If your employer removes you for making a claim, it may count as unfair dismissal, and you may be able to take legal action.
Legal protections include:
- Unfair dismissal: If your employer dismisses you for making a claim after an injury, you can take legal action. In some cases, this is automatically unfair, even if you have not worked there for two years.
- Unfair treatment: Your employer cannot treat you badly because of your injury or claim. This includes cases like “dismissed after an accident at work”. Your employer may demote you or leave you out without a valid reason.
What if your employer tries to get around it?
Some employers may try to hide the real reason for your dismissal. They may blame performance issues or say your role is no longer needed after you make a claim.
However, tribunals can look at the full situation and identify the true reason behind your dismissal.
If your claim was the main reason, a tribunal may decide that the dismissal is automatically unfair.
If you’re worried about your job after an injury
Here are simple steps you can take to protect your rights after an injury at work:
- Report the injury: Make sure your employer records it in the accident book.
- Get medical help: This creates medical records that support your claim.
- Collect evidence: Take photos, gather witness details, and note any unsafe conditions.
- Speak to a solicitor: A legal expert can provide legal advice and guide you through claiming for injury at work. Many solicitors handle claims on a No Win No Fee basis.
- Keep records: If anything changes at work after your claim, write it down and keep proof.
Watch for signs of unfair treatment
Even if your employer does not dismiss you, changes at work may show that they are treating you unfairly after an injury or claim.
Watch out for:
- Being left out of meetings or important work
- Sudden changes to your workload
- Pressure to drop your claim
- Your employer questioning your performance without a clear reason
If you notice these signs, it may mean unfair treatment or even dismissal linked to your situation. Make sure you understand your rights after an injury at work and take advice if needed.
Do not hesitate to make a claim
The law protects you from unfair treatment or dismissal when you make a claim.
If you have had an injury at work, you have the right to seek compensation. The amount you receive will depend on your situation and the seriousness of the injuries sustained.
You may be able to claim for:
- Lost earnings
- Medical treatment
- Ongoing recovery support
- Future care or rehabilitation needs
Many people want to know how much compensation they can get for an injury at work. You can use our Claim Value Estimator to get an idea of potential compensation. You can also use our Claim Checker to see if you are eligible to make a claim.
Worried about your job after an injury at work?
At Claim Time Solicitors, we understand that an injury at work can leave you feeling uncertain about your job and your next steps. Our team is here to support you and provide clear legal advice to help you understand your rights.
Our personal injury solicitors will:
- Clearly explain your rights after an injury at work
- Help you with claiming for injury at work in a simple and confidential way
- Protect you if your employer treats you unfairly
- Work to secure the compensation you deserve
Call us today on 0800 970 2727 to discuss your situation.
We focus on clear advice, strong support, and helping you move forward with confidence.
FAQs
Can my employer legally fire me after an accident at work?
No, your employer cannot fire you just because you have an accident at work. They must follow the law and your employment contract, and must not dismiss you or treat you unfairly for making a claim.
What should I do after a workplace accident?
Report the injury to your employer as soon as possible. Get medical help straight away and keep a record of your injury.
You should also collect evidence, such as witness details and any unsafe conditions.
How long do I have to make a workplace injury claim?
The time limit to make a claim is 3 years from the date of the accident. The time limit changes if the injury appears later or in serious situations.
Can I still claim if I was partly responsible for my injury?
A claim is still possible. However, shared responsibility for the accident can reduce the compensation.
What kind of compensation can I expect to receive?
Compensation can cover different types of losses. These may include lost earnings, medical expenses, and pain and suffering. It can also include travel costs for treatment and future care needs.
Am I entitled to statutory sick pay (SSP) after an injury at work?
You can receive statutory sick pay (SSP) if your injury stops you from working. This depends on your employment status and whether you meet the required conditions.