When can I make a claim?
You normally have three years from the date of the accident to claim compensation. However, there are exceptions:
- Claims can be made at any time for children under 18 years old. After they have turned 18, they have until the age of 21 to make a claim.
- Accidents abroad may follow different timescales, depending upon the country.
- There is no time limit for making a claim where a person lacks mental capacity. If mental capacity is regained, the three-year time limit starts from that point.
- When an injury has been caused deliberately by a criminal act, compensation can be claimed through the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA). The time limit to claim is two years from the incident.
How do I make a claim?
Although you usually have three years from the date of the accident to claim compensation, it is better to seek legal advice as soon as possible. If you act quickly following the accident, your memory and the memories of your witnesses are still fresh.
Davisons Law starts road traffic accident claims by letting you know whether you are eligible to make a claim and whether your claim is worth pursuing. We gather evidence to support your claim and identify who is responsible for the accident. We try and obtain an early admission of fault to try and recover compensation early to cover your immediate needs.
Sometimes the person who is at fault will not accept responsibility. If you are involved in a claim where liability is contested, our solicitors seek to relieve some of the stress by working hard to settle the matter on your behalf.
We are dedicated to making sure you receive the maximum amount of compensation and seek to ensure you have access to medical support, rehabilitation, and essential resources you need.
Do I have to use the solicitor recommended by my insurance company?
Most insurance companies have a list of solicitors they work with. However, under the Insurance Companies (Legal Expenses Insurance) Regulations Act 1990, you can choose your own solicitor to represent you.
Our expert solicitors have the knowledge, experience and confidence to strongly pursue your case to achieve the best outcome.
If you decide to use the solicitor appointed by your insurance company, it is important to carry out your own research to ensure they have extensive experience of road traffic accident claims to protect your interests.
How much can I claim?
The amount of compensation you can claim depends on the impact your injuries have on your life now and are likely to have in future.
The following factors are considered:
- Your physical and mental suffering
- Medical expenses
- Travel expenses
- Modifications made to your home and your car
- Any special equipment you need
- Loss of earnings – both now and in the future
- Damage to your vehicle or other personal property
- The cost of hiring a replacement vehicle and any other losses.
