Road traffic accidents happen far too often in the UK, and they can leave you with more than just a damaged car. One of the most common yet overlooked injuries is a concussion. If you’ve suffered a concussion in a road traffic accident that wasn’t your fault, you might be entitled to compensation. This guide will walk you through what you need to know—simply and clearly—so you can take the next step with confidence.
What Is a Concussion?
A concussion is a type of brain injury caused by a bump or jolt to the head. In road traffic accidents, it often happens when your head hits the steering wheel, window, or even the headrest during a sudden stop. Symptoms can include headaches, dizziness, confusion, or trouble concentrating. While many recover quickly, some face longer-term effects, like memory issues or mood changes.
The good news? You don’t have to suffer in silence. Compensation can help cover medical costs, lost wages, and the pain you’ve endured. Let’s dive into how it all works.
Why Claim Compensation for a Concussion?
Firstly, a concussion can disrupt your life in ways you might not expect. You might need time off work, medical appointments, or even support at home. Compensation isn’t just about money—it’s about getting your life back on track. Plus, if someone else’s negligence caused the accident (like speeding or distracted driving), they should be held accountable.
The UK government backs this idea through laws like the Road Traffic Act 1988, which ensures all road users owe each other a duty of care. If that duty is broken, you have the right to claim. For more details, check the official guidance on claiming compensation after an accident from GOV.UK.
How Does the Compensation Process Work?
Now, let’s break it down. Claiming compensation might sound daunting, but it’s straightforward with the right help. Here’s how it typically goes:
- Get Medical Help: After an accident, see a doctor—even if you feel okay. Concussions can be sneaky, and a medical report is key evidence for your claim.
- Gather Evidence: Take photos of the accident scene, get witness details, and keep any police reports. The more proof, the stronger your case.
- Contact a Solicitor: This is where National Claims comes in. They’ll connect you with experienced solicitors who specialise in road traffic accident claims. These experts will guide you every step of the way.
- Submit Your Claim: Your solicitor will file the claim against the at-fault party’s insurance. Most cases settle without going to court.
- Receive Compensation: If successful, you’ll get a payout to cover your losses and injuries.
National Claims will help you get in touch with experienced solicitors who can handle your claim efficiently. They’ll fight for the compensation you deserve, so you can focus on recovery.
How Much Compensation Can You Claim?
So, how much could you get? Compensation varies depending on your situation, but it’s split into two parts:
- General Damages: This covers your pain, suffering, and reduced quality of life. For a mild concussion with full recovery in weeks, you might get £2,000 to £11,000. For more severe cases with lasting symptoms (like post-concussion syndrome), it could range from £13,000 to £38,000, according to the Judicial College Guidelines.
- Special Damages: This includes financial losses, like medical bills, travel costs to appointments, or lost earnings. If you’ve been off work for months, this could add thousands to your claim.
Every case is unique, though. A news report from the BBC in 2023 highlighted a cyclist who received £50,000 after a car crash left him with a concussion and ongoing headaches. Your solicitor will assess your injuries and losses to estimate your payout. Want a tailored figure? National Claims’ solicitors can give you a free, no-obligation assessment.
What Makes a Strong Claim?
To win your case, you’ll need to prove three things:
- Negligence: The other driver (or party) was at fault—maybe they ran a red light or were texting.
- Injury: You suffered a concussion because of the accident.
- Impact: The injury affected your life, whether through pain, work, or daily tasks.
Evidence is your best friend here. A dash-cam video, a witness statement, or even a police report can seal the deal. The GOV.UK site on road traffic accident statistics shows over 130,000 casualties in 2022 alone—proof these incidents are all too common.
Why Use National Claims?
Here’s the thing: navigating a claim on your own is tough. Insurance companies might offer a low settlement to save money, leaving you short-changed. That’s where National Claims shines. They’ll pair you with skilled solicitors who know the tricks of the trade. Plus, many offer “no win, no fee” agreements—meaning you pay nothing unless you win. It’s a risk-free way to seek justice.
Real-Life Impact of Concussion Claims
Consider this: a 2024 article from The Guardian reported on a young woman injured in a car crash. She suffered a concussion, couldn’t work for six months, and faced mounting bills. With a solicitor’s help, she claimed £35,000—enough to cover her losses and get proper treatment. Stories like hers show why claiming matters. It’s not just about the money; it’s about rebuilding your life.
Time Limits to Watch
Don’t wait too long, though. In the UK, you usually have three years from the accident date to start a claim, as per the Limitation Act 1980. Miss that window, and you could lose your chance. For kids under 18, the clock starts on their 18th birthday. Check GOV.UK’s legal time limits for more.
Take Action Today
If you’ve had a concussion from a road traffic accident, don’t let it slide. Compensation can ease the burden and hold the guilty party accountable. National Claims will help you get in touch with experienced solicitors who’ll fight your corner. It’s simple: reach out, share your story, and let the experts handle the rest. You’ve been through enough—now’s the time to get what you’re owed.
Frequently Asked Questions: Concussion Compensation in Road Traffic Accidents
Q1. Can I claim if the accident was partly my fault?
Yes, you might still claim, but your payout could be reduced. It depends on how much blame you share—your solicitor can advise.
Q2. How long does a claim take?
Most settle within 6-12 months, but complex cases with serious injuries might take longer.
Q3. What if the other driver wasn’t insured?
You can still claim through the Motor Insurers’ Bureau (MIB). Visit GOV.UK’s MIB page for details.
Q4. Do I need a solicitor?
You don’t have to use one, but it’s smart. Solicitors boost your chances of a fair payout, especially against tricky insurers.
Q5. How much does a solicitor cost?
With “no win, no fee,” you pay nothing upfront. If you win, they take a capped percentage (usually 25%) from your compensation.
Q6. Can I claim for a minor concussion?
Absolutely. Even mild concussions qualify if they’ve caused you pain or disruption.
Q7. What evidence do I need?
Medical records, photos, witness statements, and police reports all help. The more, the better!
Ready to start? Contact National Claims today for expert help and a free consultation. Your recovery—and your compensation—awaits.
Contact National Claims today, and we will put you in touch with an expert solicitor who can guide you through the claims process.📞 Call us now free 0800 029 3849 or 📩 Submit an online enquiry to speak to our team. Your safety and well-being matter, and we’re here to help.
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Excellent
This firm is excellent, they sorted out my car pay out and injury claim very fast, they always communicate with you all the time.
My accident case was dealt with confidence and with great result of the outcome, especially James kept me informed all the time.
I was very impressed at the way my inquiry was treated. I was listened to attentively and everything I needed to know was explained to me.
