Guide · Employment law

Workplace accidents in Morocco: formalities, time limits and compensation

Law No. 18-12 governs compensation for accidents at work and accidents while commuting. Compensation is paid by the employer's insurer, or by the employer itself if it is not insured. Meeting the notification deadlines and the quality of the medical evidence determine the amount obtained.

By Maître Mouad Lahfaia, lawyer at the Rabat Bar · Updated 8 September 2026 · 6 min read

The first 48 hours

  1. Have the injuries examined by a doctor and obtain an initial medical certificate describing the injuries and the period of incapacity.
  2. Inform the employer within 48 hours, preferably in writing, stating the circumstances and any witnesses.
  3. The employer reports the accident to its insurer within five working days; failing that, the victim may report it directly within two years.
  4. Keep all documents: sick notes, prescriptions, invoices, the police report in the case of a commuting accident.

What the victim can obtain

  • Full coverage of medical, surgical, pharmaceutical and rehabilitation costs.
  • A daily allowance during temporary incapacity, calculated on the daily wage.
  • A life annuity in the event of permanent incapacity, based on the rate set by medical assessment and the annual salary.
  • Annuities for dependants and funeral costs in the event of death; an increase in the event of inexcusable fault by the employer.

Conciliation, then court

The insurer offers compensation as part of a conciliation procedure. If there is disagreement over the incapacity rate or the reference salary, the victim brings the matter before the Court of First Instance of Rabat, which may order a second medical assessment. A lawyer's assistance makes it possible to challenge an undervalued assessment and to obtain recognition of inexcusable fault.

This guide is provided for general information by Maître Lahfaia Law Firm, Rabat. It is no substitute for advice tailored to your situation; the rules and deadlines mentioned may change.

FAQ

Questions related to this guide

Are commuting accidents covered?

Yes. An accident on the usual route between home and the workplace, or between work and the place where meals are taken, is treated as a workplace accident.

What if the employer is not insured?

The employer remains personally liable for compensation. The victim can bring an action against it before the court and apply to the Guarantee Fund provided for by Law No. 18-12.

Can the incapacity rate be challenged?

Yes. The victim may refuse the insurer's offer and ask the court to order a judicial expert assessment to set the permanent incapacity rate.

Book an appointment

Need help with this procedure?

A first confidential discussion at the firm, by phone or by video call. Reply within 24 working hours.

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