Workplace Injury in Ireland? Don’t Miss the Claim Clock
Quick Answer: You typically have two years—minus one day—from the date of the accident or from when you first realised your injury was work-related to file a personal injury claim in Ireland. Delays can permanently forfeit your right to compensation.
If you were hurt while doing your job, there’s a time window—and it’s shorter than most think. In Ireland, your chance to claim usually expires two years minus one day from the date of the incident, or from when you first realised your job caused the harm. Wait too long, and you could lose the right forever.
Read our general overview of accident at work claims.
The Legal Countdown—What It Really Means
Irish law runs on deadlines. This one’s called the Statute of Limitations, and it’s covered under the Civil Liability and Courts Act 2004. Your two-year window starts from:
- The day the incident happened, or
- The moment you connected your injury to your work conditions or employer
This “date of knowledge” rule matters for injuries that show up gradually—like joint damage or psychological trauma.
IRB vs. PIAB—What Changed?
In late 2023, the Injuries Resolution Board (IRB) replaced PIAB. New name, same core job: helping injured people avoid court.
- Accepts claim forms (Form A)
- Pauses your two-year limit once the claim is received
- Offers optional mediation
- If agreement fails, issues an Authorisation so you can go to court
Learn more about your rights under the IRB.
Mistakes That Kill Claims: Wrong Name, Wrong Entity
Employers don’t always trade under the name you see on the wall. “Green Tools” might legally be “Greentek Industrial Ltd.” Misnaming the defendant on Form A can cause legal delays—or worse, rejection. Always verify the registered business name through the Companies Registration Office (CRO).
Understand who is liable under Irish law.
Time Exceptions That Might Save Your Case
- If you’re under 18: Time only starts when you turn 18
- If you’re medically certified as incapacitated: The countdown is suspended
- If symptoms appeared later: You get time from date of knowledge of diagnosis—not injury date
30-Day Checklist – What to Do First
| Day Range | Task |
|---|---|
| 0–3 | Report injury to employer and get it documented |
| 4–10 | Photograph the scene, request CCTV, gather witness info |
| 11–20 | Get legal advice, schedule medical review |
| 21–30 | File the Injuries Resolution Board Application Form with all supporting records |
Why You Can’t Afford to Wait
- CCTV footage is overwritten—often in 7 to 30 days
- Witnesses forget or quit their jobs
- Worksites get cleaned or altered, destroying evidence
One-Liners from Your Doctor Won’t Cut It
- What the injury is—not just a symptom
- How it affects you day to day
- Your treatment path and likely recovery
- A medical opinion on its workplace cause
What’s Your Injury Worth?
The Judicial Council Personal Injuries Guidelines (2021) set the bar for all injury claims.
- Back strain (short-term): €500–€3,000
- Chronic neck injury: €12,000–€20,000
- Shoulder requiring surgery: €40,000–€60,000
- Trauma or PTSD: €20,000–€55,000
- Severe spinal impairment: Up to €140,000
Don’t Forget the “Extras” – Special Damages
- Lost earnings
- Transport costs (buses, taxis, fuel)
- Prescription fees, rehab, and physio
- Adaptive items (braces, furniture, tools)
- Help at home or job retraining
What If IRB Doesn’t Work Out?
You have six months to act once you receive your Authorisation to issue court proceedings.
- Circuit Court: handles personal injury claims up to €60,000
- High Court: takes injury claims above €60,000
(NOTE: €75,000 applies to other civil cases—not injury.)
See Citizens Information: Civil Court Claims
Full guide to court-based claims following IRB Authorisation.
When IRB Isn’t Even an Option
IRB doesn’t cover medical negligence claims—that includes negligent surgeries, misdiagnoses, or hospital-acquired infections. Those cases must start in court directly and have their own timelines.
Getting Paid—How Long Does It Take?
Once the award is accepted, payment typically arrives within 21–42 days. Your solicitor or the insurer releases funds once everything clears.
What Your Employer Has to Do (By Law)
- Log your incident in writing
- Investigate and document outcomes
- Preserve physical or video evidence
- Notify the Health and Safety Authority (HSA) if you’re off for 3+ days
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it really two years flat?
Yes—unless you’re underage, incapacitated, or your injury appeared later.
What if I don’t have all the proof yet?
File the IRB claim anyway to pause the deadline. Your solicitor can gather more proofs afterwards.
Can I still claim if I quit the job?
Yes. Claims are tied to the accident, not your employment status.
What if I didn’t realise it was work-related?
Your clock may start from your date of knowledge—not the event itself.
Can I claim for psychological harm?
Yes—if diagnosed and supported by clinical evidence.
Gary Matthews Solicitors – With Over 1200+ 5★ Reviews
Based in Dublin, Gary Matthews Solicitors has helped thousands of workers get justice. We handle IRB claims, evidence assembly, and full litigation when needed.
Act now. Delay risks everything.
Request your no-obligation consultation today.
Legal Review:
Gary Matthews – Senior Partner
Expert in work injury law, IRB submissions, and High Court cases with 30+ years of litigation experience.
