Workplace accident

If you have had an accident at work or on your commute that required medical attention, there are a few specific matters that need to be dealt with. We will provide you with all the information you need in this regard so that you will be aware of everything you need to know. 

If you have an accident at work or on your commute, the responsible employer’s liability insurance association or accident insurance provider covers all of the costs for both medical and non-medical rehabilitation. It also offers protection against potential financial risks – for example, injury benefit in the case of temporary incapacity for work or permanent disability. 

Workplace accidents are accidents that insurants suffer during the course of their insured activity. For this reason, the term ‘workplace accident’ does not refer exclusively to accidents that take place during working hours. Workplace accidents also include accidents suffered by children at school or nursery, students at a recognised university or people who have administered first aid after a road traffic incident. 

What counts as a workplace accident?

• Accidents suffered while on errands or trips on behalf of the company. 
• Accidents suffered during work events – for example, company outings or parties, provided these events have been organised by the company. 
• Accidents suffered while participating in regular company sporting activities; however, not during matches or competitions. 
• Accidents suffered while storing, procuring, replacing or servicing tools required for work – for example, if a child buys a textbook at the request of the school. 
• Accidents suffered by volunteers during the course of their work. This only applies if the accident was caused as a direct result of their voluntary activity.

Commuting accidents

Even accidents that take place on the direct route to and from the insured activity – known as commuting accidents – are covered by statutory accident insurance. This also includes accidents suffered while making essential deviations, for example:

• Looking after children during working hours 
• Carpooling
• Following diversions 
• Taking a longer route that is actually quicker for getting to work

How do you deal with a workplace accident?

Your employer must notify the responsible accident insurance provider if you suffer a workplace accident that renders you incapable of working for more than three calendar days. You can ask your employer for details on which company is responsible in your case. 

You should find a doctor immediately; if in doubt, your GP can refer you to the closest accident insurance consultant. Accident insurance consultants are specially qualified for dealing with victims of accidents. It is essential to speak to an accident insurance consultant if:

• Your incapacity to work extends beyond the day of the accident itself, or 
• The necessary medical treatment is likely to last for over a week, or 
• Remedies and aids need to be prescribed, or  
• You suffer a relapse as a result of the consequences of your accident

In the case of minor injuries, accident victims are referred by the accident insurance consultant to a GP for further treatment. In these cases, the accident insurance consultant continues to monitor the healing process – for example, through follow-up appointments and reviews.

Reporting an accident 

The most important thing is for you to get back on your feet as quickly as possible. We will deal with the relevant accident insurance company to establish who is responsible for which costs and to determine the best way to proceed. You can help us by reporting the accident to us. It’s also just as important for you to provide your most accurate account of the accident itself, including where it took place and who was involved.

We’re here to support you

If you have any questions relating to workplace or commuting accidents, please contact your personal consultant. We will be happy to help so that you can get back on your feet as quickly as possible.