Utah law guide
Hurt at Work in Utah? What the 180-Day Clock Means
Utah gives injured workers strong comp rights — and deadlines that start running the day you're hurt. Here's how the system works, from first report to permanent disability.
This guide is general information, not legal advice, and UT Legal Help is not a law firm. Deadlines and rules vary by situation — a participating Utah law firm can explain what applies to you. No outcome is guaranteed.
Attorney advertising. UT Legal Help is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice. Your information may be shared with a participating Utah law firm for review. No outcome is guaranteed.
180 days: the notice rule
Utah requires notice of a work injury within 180 days to your employer or the Industrial Accidents Division (Utah Code 34A-2-407). Separately, if benefits aren't provided, an employee Claim (Form 122) is generally filed within one year, and an Application for Hearing to pursue disputed benefits within six years. Report first, in writing, even if the injury seems minor — many serious claims start as 'I thought it would get better.'
What comp pays
Utah comp covers medical treatment, a portion of lost wages while you recover, and permanent impairment benefits when an injury leaves lasting damage — generally regardless of fault. Impairment ratings can be challenged, including through an independent medical examination, and the rating drives what a serious claim is worth. Start at the Utah work injury hub.
Denied? The hearing path
Denials are common — 'not work-related,' late notice, pre-existing conditions. Disputed claims are heard through the Utah Labor Commission's Adjudication Division, with strict deadlines at each step. Many denials are challenged successfully; missing a deadline usually isn't. Start at the denied claims hub.
Resorts, mines, and third parties
Utah's signature industries add wrinkles. Ski resort workers — lift ops, instructors, patrol, lodge staff — are generally covered like any employee, seasonal or not (see the resort worker hub). In mining, federal MSHA rules govern safety, but benefits still run through Utah comp and third-party claims often exist against contractors on site (see the mining hub). Comp is generally the exclusive remedy against your employer — but never against a negligent third party.
Get help where you are
Work injury help by Utah city
Utah law FAQ
Common questions
How long do I have to report a work injury in Utah?
Notice within 180 days to your employer or the Industrial Accidents Division, and an employee Claim (Form 122) generally within one year if benefits aren't paid. This is general information, not legal advice.
Can I sue my employer for a work injury in Utah?
Usually not — comp is generally the exclusive remedy against your employer. But third-party claims against a negligent driver, contractor, or equipment maker can apply on top of comp. A participating Utah law firm can review which applies.
Is this legal advice?
No. UT Legal Help is a legal advertising website, not a law firm. This guide is general information; a participating Utah law firm can review your specific situation for free.
Free · No obligation
Find out where you stand — free.
It costs nothing to ask, and you decide what happens next. English or Spanish, Utah statewide.