Compensation for Work Accidents in Israel
A work accident can leave an injured employee unable to continue working in their field of expertise—sometimes temporarily, sometimes permanently. Because such injuries often threaten the livelihood of both the employee and their family, Israeli law provides several avenues for obtaining compensation from different insurance sources. Engaging a lawyer who specializes in work accident claims is strongly recommended to ensure full realization of all available benefits.
By Igal Mor, Adv. & Notary
Accuracy in Legal Advice. Excellence in legal support.
What Qualifies as a Work Accident?
A work accident is an event in which an employee is injured as a result of or in connection with their employment. Israeli courts interpret this term broadly: it applies not only to injuries that occur at the physical workplace but also to incidents that arise from work-related activities conducted elsewhere. Common examples include injuries sustained on the way to or from work, injuries during work-related travel, and occupational diseases that develop over time due to working conditions. When a work-related injury occurs, it is essential to consult a work accident attorney.
How to Report a Work Accident
Reporting a work accident is both a legal obligation for the employer and a right for the employee. The employer is required by law to report any work accident that causes more than three days of incapacity to the relevant authorities. For the employee, reporting the accident to the appropriate insurance bodies is essential for receiving benefits and compensation. Contact a labor law or personal injury attorney for detailed guidance on reporting requirements.
Insurance Systems That Compensate Injured Employees
Three insurance systems may be relevant to an employee injured in a work accident. The first is National Insurance (Bituach Leumi), a mandatory social insurance program that provides financial assistance to injured workers. A social security attorney can provide detailed guidance on National Insurance claims. The second and third systems are pension fund insurance and private disability insurance, both of which may entitle the injured employee to additional compensation beyond National Insurance benefits.
Injury Benefits Following a Work Accident
Injury benefits from National Insurance function similarly to unemployment benefits, providing an immediate but temporary financial solution for work accident victims. These benefits are limited to a maximum of 13 weeks, with the daily amount calculated at 75% of the employee’s average daily salary based on the three months preceding the accident. The daily ceiling for injury benefits is approximately 1,141 NIS. For comprehensive guidance on injury benefit claims, contact Mor & Co. Law Firm—experienced work accident and labor law attorneys in Jerusalem.
How Compensation Amounts Are Determined
Beyond the temporary injury benefits, National Insurance may provide a longer-term disability allowance. To qualify, the injured employee must appear before a medical committee that determines the degree of disability. For guidance on medical committee proceedings, it is advisable to retain an attorney experienced in work accidents and social security claims.
Compensation Through Pension or Private Insurance
For pension insurance claims, the insured must typically demonstrate that the work accident caused at least a 25% reduction in work capacity lasting more than 90 days, supported by relevant medical documentation. Private disability insurance operates according to the specific terms of each policy. In both pension and private insurance, monthly compensation is generally capped at 75% of the insured’s average salary. A labor law, personal injury, or social security attorney can advise on the full range of compensation options available.
Work Accident Claim Process — What to Do
For National Insurance claims, the injured employee must undergo a medical committee evaluation and submit all relevant medical documentation. The committee will assess the case and determine the disability rate, which in turn determines benefit eligibility. This decision can be appealed to the National Insurance Medical Appeals Committee. The pension fund process is similar, requiring a formal application supported by medical evidence, documentation of sick day usage, and employment termination records if applicable. Consulting with an experienced social security or labor law attorney is essential throughout this process.
Legal Representation for Work Accident Claims
A work accident entitles the victim to a comprehensive set of benefits and compensation. However, to fully realize these rights, it is essential to engage a professional and experienced work accident attorney. Mor & Co. Law Firm is the right choice for anyone seeking to maximize their compensation following a workplace injury.
Have you been injured at work? Schedule a legal consultation to evaluate your right to compensation following a work accident.
With years of experience navigating the complexities of National Insurance proceedings, Mor & Co. understands the challenges involved. Our deep legal knowledge and extensive experience representing clients before the National Insurance Institute and the Labor Court equip us to deliver outstanding results. Unlike rights-extraction companies that lack the legal authority to represent clients before medical committees, our attorneys personally accompany you to hearings and ensure that due process and natural justice are upheld. From the initial claim filing through the preparation of your complete medical file, we protect your interests at every stage. Our team includes attorneys who specialize in disability law and view National Insurance advocacy as a core mission. We offer support in Arabic and English. Contact us today at 02-595-3322 or via WhatsApp at 050-441-1343.