If you have an accident at work or on the direct way there, you are covered by statutory accident insurance.
The essentials
- All employees are insured, including in a mini-job and during probation. Only the employer pays the contributions.
- Always tell the doctor that it was an accident at work. If you are unable to work beyond the day of the accident, you usually go to an accident doctor (Durchgangsarzt).
- The employer must report the accident if you are unable to work for more than three days.
- First aid
- Inform your employer
- See an accident doctor (D-Arzt)
- Employer reports the accident
- Accident insurance pays
The responsible body is the Berufsgenossenschaft or Unfallkasse. It covers, for example, treatment and rehabilitation. If you are unable to work for a long time, injury benefit (Verletztengeld) can be paid after continued pay ends.
Certain illnesses caused by work can also be covered. Talk to your doctor if you suspect a link.
MeaNext explains general rules about work in Germany. This information does not replace individual legal advice. In a specific case, your employment contract, collective agreement, works agreement and personal circumstances can be decisive.
Last expert review: 09/10/2026
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