What Happens If You Don’t Report an Injury at Work?
Posted on: July 15th, 2025
If you've suffered an injury at work, one of the most important steps you can take is to report it as soon as possible. Delaying or failing to make an accident at work report can have serious consequences for both your health and your ability to claim compensation. At Atha & Co, we understand how overwhelming workplace injuries can be, and we're here to guide you through the process.
Why Reporting Matters
When a workplace accident occurs, your employer has a legal obligation to record the incident and ensure it is properly investigated. This is a critical step in establishing employer liability and creating a formal record of what happened. If no report is made, it may be difficult to prove that the injury occurred at work, which can jeopardise any personal injury claim you may later wish to pursue.
In the UK, employers are required to comply with health and safety regulations, which include maintaining an accident book. Reporting an accident at work ensures your injury is officially recorded and flags up potential risks in the workplace that may need addressing.
What Are the Consequences of Not Reporting?
Failing to report a workplace injury promptly can lead to several issues:
Weakened Legal Case: If you decide to make a personal injury claim, lack of an accident at work report can seriously weaken your case. Without evidence, it becomes a matter of your word against your employer's.
Delayed Medical Treatment: Reporting the incident quickly often leads to more immediate medical attention. This not only supports your recovery but also provides medical records that can support your claim.
Compromised Workplace Safety: By not reporting the incident, potential hazards may go unaddressed, putting colleagues at risk of similar workplace accidents.
Disciplinary Action: Some employers may have internal policies requiring that any injury at work be reported within a specific timeframe. Failure to comply could result in disciplinary action.
Common Reasons Employees Don’t Report Injuries
Despite the risks, many employees choose not to report their injuries. Common reasons include:
Fear of retaliation or job loss
Belief that the injury is minor and will heal on its own
Lack of knowledge about reporting procedures
Pressure from management or colleagues to "let it go"
At Atha & Co, we believe no one should suffer in silence. Personal injuries at work are not only physically painful but can also lead to emotional and financial stress. Reporting them is the first step toward getting the support and compensation you deserve.
How to Properly Report an Accident at Work
Notify Your Supervisor: Inform your line manager or supervisor immediately after the incident.
Record in the Accident Book: Every workplace should have one. Make sure your injury is written down clearly and accurately.
Seek Medical Attention: Even if the injury seems minor, a medical examination can uncover hidden issues and provides important documentation.
Gather Evidence: Take photos of the scene, collect witness statements, and keep copies of any relevant correspondence.
Your Right to Claim Compensation
If your injury at work was caused by negligence, unsafe conditions, or failure to maintain equipment, you may be entitled to compensation. Employer liability means that your employer is responsible for ensuring a safe working environment. When they fail to meet that responsibility, and it leads to workplace injuries, a claim can be made.
Claims can cover:
Loss of earnings
Medical expenses
Travel costs
Pain and suffering
Even if time has passed and you didn’t report the injury immediately, you may still have options. Our legal team at Atha & Co can help assess your situation and advise on the best course of action.
Don’t Wait - Talk to the Experts
At Atha & Co, we specialise in helping individuals who have suffered personal injuries due to workplace accidents. Whether the injury was caused by faulty equipment, lack of training, or hazardous conditions, we are committed to holding employers accountable.
If you’ve experienced an accident at work and aren’t sure what to do next, we’re here to help. Contact our expert team today for a free, no-obligation consultation. Don’t let uncertainty or fear stop you from getting the support and compensation you deserve.
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