Frequently Asked Questions

The Claim

How long will it take to claim compensation?

This depends on the type of claim you are making, the seriousness of your injuries and whether the other party or their insurers have admitted liability. Please contact us for a free no-obligations discussion and we'll be able to analyse your claim in light of the circumstances and give you a realistic timescale.

How soon should I bring a claim?

Unless there are exceptional factors, a claim should be brought as soon as possible. The law currently states that a claim must be brought within three years from the date of the accident, although his may be extended in exceptional circumstances at the discretion of the court. However, a more pressing practical problem is that memories fade and witnesses may be difficult, if not impossible to track down later on. This will make it more difficult to bring a claim and even where it is successful, may mean you have to settle for a lower amount of compensation.

Will I need to go to court?

The overwhelming majority of cases are settled before resorting to the courts and so it will usually not be necessary to go to court. However, you should be prepared to go if the other party is not willing to settle the claim.

Can I claim if I was at fault for the accident?

Possibly. Where you are deemed to be partially responsible for the accident that led to your injuries, your compensation is likely to be reduced. Where you are deemed to be wholly responsible, it is likely that you will be unable to claim compensation. However, it is important to differentiate between legal responsibility, which is the basis on which compensation is paid or withheld, and the degree of responsibility a person assumes they hold. People often assume they were at least partly responsible for an accident that actually was not their fault. It is important to discuss the incident with an experienced solicitor, who will be able to assess your claim for compensation and advise you accordingly. Contact us today to ensure you don't miss out on compensation you are rightly entitled to.

Funding

Am I eligible for legal aid to assist me with my claim?

Usually not, save for in very rare cases. No win, no fee arrangements are available, however, and these operate in a similar way by relieving you of any financial concerns that are often associated with taking legal action.

Can I claim if I was injured in a hit and run accident?

Yes - the Motor Insurers' Bureau is able to pay compensation where the driver can not be traced, although it is not possible to pursue a claim on a no win, no fee basis. We are happy to offer you a free initial consultation and to set out your likelihood for success and the funding options that are available to you. Please contact us and we'll be happy to advise you.

Compensation

How much compensation will I receive?

This depends on a number of factors and the amount of compensation for a similar injury can vary substantially from one person to another. Factors that determine the amount of compensation you will be awarded include the seriousness of the injury, your age, any effect on your ability to work, the amount of time taken for you to recover, your loss of earnings, your age, gender and the impact of your injuries on your personal life. Please contact us for a free no-obligations discussion and we'll be able to analyse your claim in light of the circumstances and give you a realistic indication.

How am I able to keep 100% of my compensation?

The award for compensation in a claim is separate from the award for legal costs, which are payable by the losing party in a claim. Our experience has enabled us to determine from the outset whether your claim is likely to succeed and we are able to claim our fees at the end of your claim from the other party or their insurer.

Road Traffic Accidents

Can I claim if I was injured by an uninsured driver?

Yes - the Motor Insurers' Bureau was set up to deal with the problem of injuries arising out of the negligence of drivers without insurance and will usually pay compensation in respect of your injuries.

Can I claim if I was injured in a hit and run accident?

Yes - the Motor Insurers' Bureau is able to pay compensation where the driver can not be traced, although it is not possible to pursue a claim on a no win, no fee basis. We are happy to offer you a free initial consultation and to set out your likelihood for success and the funding options that are available to you. Please contact us and we'll be happy to advise you.