What happens after making an accident at work claim?
Written by Marie Oxland | Personal Injury team | 29 July 2026
Deciding to make an accident at work claim can feel like a significant step, especially when your employer is involved. Many people worry about what happens once they begin the process, how their employer will respond and whether they will have to deal with a complicated legal process.
These concerns are completely understandable. After an injury, you may already be managing pain, medical appointments, time off work or uncertainty about the future. The thought of starting a claim can feel overwhelming if you do not know what to expect.
The claims process is designed to investigate what happened, understand the impact of your injury and determine whether compensation may be appropriate. A solicitor will guide you through each stage, explain what is happening and help you understand what information is needed. Knowing what to expect can make the process feel much more manageable.
What happens when I first contact a solicitor about an accident at work claim?
The first step is usually an initial conversation where you can explain what happened and discuss your circumstances. A solicitor will ask questions about the accident, your injury, your employment and any information you already have available. This helps them understand whether you may have a potential claim and what further investigation may be needed.
You do not need to have every document or piece of evidence ready before seeking advice. Many people contact a solicitor because they are unsure what evidence they need or whether their situation is likely to result in a claim.
An initial discussion is an opportunity to understand your options. It does not mean you have to proceed with a claim if you decide it is not the right step for you.
How is an accident at work claim investigated?
Once a claim begins, your solicitor will usually investigate the circumstances surrounding your injury. This involves gathering information about what happened, why the accident occurred and whether your employer may have failed to take reasonable steps to protect you.
The investigation may involve reviewing:
accident reports
medical records
photographs
witness statements
workplace procedures
training records
risk assessments
equipment records
The purpose of this process is to build a clear understanding of the accident and establish whether there are grounds for a claim. Every workplace injury is different. Some claims may involve a straightforward accident with clear evidence, while others may require more detailed investigation.
Will my employer know about my claim?
If you proceed with an accident at work claim, your employer will usually become aware because their insurer will need to be involved. Employers are generally required to have employers’ liability insurance to cover situations where an employee is injured as a result of their work. This means the claim is typically handled through the insurer rather than requiring your employer to personally pay compensation.
It is natural to feel concerned about how your employer may react. However, making a claim does not mean you are being unreasonable or acting unfairly. It is about seeking support following an injury and understanding whether compensation may be available.
Many people continue working for their employer throughout the claims process.
What happens if my employer accepts responsibility?
If your employer or their insurer accepts responsibility for the accident, the claim can usually move forward more smoothly. Your solicitor will then focus on understanding the full impact of your injury, including any treatment you have needed, financial losses and how the accident has affected your daily life.
Medical evidence is often obtained to help assess your injuries and provide an independent view of your recovery. This helps ensure that any compensation reflects the impact the accident has had on you. The aim is to reach an appropriate settlement that considers both the injury itself and any related losses.
What happens if my employer disputes my claim?
It is not unusual for employers or insurers to disagree with aspects of a claim. A dispute does not necessarily mean that your claim cannot succeed. Where responsibility is disputed, your solicitor will continue to investigate the evidence and present your case clearly. This may involve obtaining further information, speaking to witnesses, reviewing workplace documents or obtaining expert opinions where needed.
Many workplace injury claims are resolved through negotiation without the need to go to court. However, your solicitor will explain the available options and support you throughout the process.
Do I need a medical assessment after making a claim?
In many accident at work claims, a medical assessment forms an important part of the process. This allows an independent medical expert to assess your injury, your symptoms and your recovery. The expert will prepare a report that helps explain the extent of your injuries and the likely future impact.
The assessment is not about questioning whether your injury is genuine. It provides independent evidence to help ensure your claim is properly understood. The process will vary depending on the type and severity of your injury.
How long does an accident at work claim take?
The length of time an accident at work claim takes depends on several factors, including the complexity of the accident, whether responsibility is accepted and how long it takes to understand your recovery.
Some claims may be resolved relatively quickly, particularly where liability is clear and injuries have stabilised. Others may take longer where there are disputes or where your future recovery needs to be considered.
A solicitor should keep you updated throughout the process and explain any delays or important developments. The priority is not reaching an outcome quickly, but ensuring your claim properly reflects the impact of your injury.
Can I receive compensation while my claim is ongoing?
In some circumstances, it may be possible to receive an interim payment before your claim has fully concluded. These payments can provide financial support while the claim continues, particularly where an injury has affected your ability to work or resulted in additional costs.
Whether an interim payment is available depends on the circumstances of your claim and whether responsibility has been established. Your solicitor can advise you if this may be an option in your situation.
How Nash & Co Solicitors can help
At Nash & Co Solicitors, our Personal Injury team understands that making an accident at work claim can feel uncertain, particularly when you are claiming against your current or former employer.
We offer a free, no obligation consultation with an experienced Personal Injury lawyer, giving you the opportunity to talk through what happened and understand what steps may be available to you. We will explain the process clearly, answer your questions and provide straightforward advice without any pressure to proceed.
If you decide to move forward, we will support you on a no win no fee basis. This allows you to explore your options without needing to pay legal fees upfront, with the costs and process explained clearly from the beginning.
Our team supports clients across Plymouth, Devon, Cornwall and throughout England and Wales. You can get in touch with the team to discuss your circumstances confidentially and without any pressure to proceed by calling 01752 827031 or emailing enquiries@nash.co.uk.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Yes, if you proceed with a claim your employer will usually become aware because their insurer will need to be involved. However, accident at work claims are generally handled through insurance rather than directly between you and your employer. Many people continue working with their employer throughout the process.
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Most accident at work claims do not result in a court hearing. Many are resolved through discussions and negotiations between solicitors and insurers. If court proceedings ever become necessary, your solicitor will explain what this involves and support you throughout the process.
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You do not need to make a claim immediately after an accident, but there are time limits that usually apply to workplace injury claims. Seeking advice sooner can help preserve evidence, clarify your options and ensure you understand how the time limits apply to your circumstances.
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Yes, many people continue working while their claim progresses. Making a claim does not automatically prevent you from remaining in your job or continuing your employment. If your injury affects your ability to work, your employer may need to consider appropriate support or adjustments.
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An employer’s response after an accident can vary, and some may be supportive while a claim is being considered. However, an apology or offer of help does not necessarily resolve the question of whether compensation may be available. It can still be useful to seek advice so you understand your rights and options.
