If you’ve been injured in a crash that wasn’t your fault, understanding your rights and the process of making a claim can be daunting. This comprehensive guide aims to shed light on the key aspects of personal injury claims in the UK, empowering you to navigate the complexities and seek the compensation you deserve. We will also highlight how you can start a road traffic accident claim.
Understanding Liability in Road Accidents
In road accidents, determining liability is crucial for making a successful claim. Liability refers to who is legally responsible for the accident and your injuries. In most cases, it falls on the driver whose negligence or recklessness caused the crash.
Proving liability involves gathering evidence such as police reports, witness statements, dashcam footage, and medical records. Your solicitor will meticulously analyze this evidence to build a strong case on your behalf.
Types of Compensation in Personal Injury Claims
Compensation in personal injury claims can be broadly categorized into two types: general damages and special damages.
General Damages:
General damages compensate for the pain, suffering, and emotional distress caused by the accident and your injuries. These damages are calculated based on the severity of your injuries and the impact they have had on your life.
Special Damages:
Special damages cover financial losses incurred due to the accident. This includes medical expenses, lost earnings, rehabilitation costs, travel expenses, and any modifications needed to your home or vehicle.
Time Limits for Making a Claim
It’s crucial to be aware of the time limits for making a personal injury claim in the UK. Generally, you have three years from the date of the accident to initiate a claim. However, there are exceptions to this rule, such as:
- Children: If the injured person is a child, the three-year period starts from their 18th birthday.
- Mental Incapacity: If the injured person lacks mental capacity, the time limit may be paused.
It’s advisable to consult with a solicitor as soon as possible after the accident to ensure you don’t miss any deadlines.
The Claims Process: Step-by-Step
- Seeking Medical Attention: Your health and well-being should be your top priority. Seek medical attention immediately after the accident, even if your injuries seem minor.
- Gathering Evidence: Collect as much evidence as possible related to the accident. This includes photos of the scene, contact information of witnesses, and medical records.
- Consulting a Solicitor: Contact a personal injury solicitor specializing in road traffic accidents. They will assess your case, advise you on the best course of action, and guide you through the claims process.
- Notifying the Insurer: Your solicitor will notify the at-fault driver’s insurer of your intention to make a claim.
- Negotiation and Settlement: Your solicitor will negotiate with the insurer to reach a fair settlement that covers your damages.
- Litigation: If a settlement cannot be reached, your solicitor may initiate court proceedings on your behalf.
Rehabilitation and Support Services
In addition to financial compensation, personal injury claims can also provide access to rehabilitation and support services. These services aim to aid your recovery and help you regain your independence. Depending on your injuries, you may be entitled to physiotherapy, occupational therapy, counseling, and other forms of support.
Making a Road Traffic Accident Claim with National Claims
At National Claims, we understand the profound impact that road traffic accidents can have on your life and the lives of your loved ones. If you have been injured in an accident caused by another driver’s negligence, whether it be due to fatigue, distraction, or recklessness.
Free Consultation
We recognise that every road traffic accident case is unique, and we’re here to offer you a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your specific situation. During this consultation, we’ll listen attentively to your experience, gather relevant details about the accident, and assess the potential strength of your claim.
Our team will then connect you with a qualified solicitor from our panel who specialises in road traffic accident claims, ensuring that you receive the expert legal representation needed to pursue your case effectively.
*Customers pay up to 25% (incl. VAT) of the amount recovered towards solicitor costs and if you cancel outside your cooling off period, you may be charged a fee.
Contact us today to speak to one of our claims agents who will be able to help you get started on your claim.
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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.
