Martin taggart

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1. Immediate Steps to Take If You’re Injured in a Car Accident
   • Seek medical attention right away, even if the injury seems minor
   • Report the accident to the police (especially if someone is hurt or the road is blocked)
   • Exchange details with the other driver (name, address, insurance info)
   • Collect evidence: take photos, get witness contact details, and write down what happened
   • Inform your insurance company of the incident as soon as possible
2. Common Injuries from Car Accidents
   • Whiplash and neck pain
   • Back and spinal injuries
   • Head injuries or concussions
   • Broken bones and fractures
   • Cuts, bruises, and soft tissue injuries
   • Psychological trauma, anxiety, or PTSD
   Even minor injuries can have long-term effects, so always seek medical advice.
3. Can You Claim Compensation? Yes, if:
   • The accident was not your fault
   • You suffered a physical or psychological injury
   • The injury caused disruption to your daily life or finances
   Passengers, pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists can also claim if injured.
4. What Can You Claim For?
   • Pain and suffering
   • Medical treatment and rehabilitation costs
   • Loss of earnings (past and future)
   • Travel and care expenses
   • Vehicle repair or replacement
   • Emotional distress or trauma
5. How Much Compensation Can You Receive? Compensation depends on:
   • Injury severity
   • Impact on your life and ability to work
   • Recovery time
   • Medical evidence and prognosis
   For example:
   • Minor whiplash: £240–£4,215
   • Moderate back injury: £7,890–£38,490
   • Serious head injury: £40,000–£219,070
6. How to Start a Car Accident Claim
   • Contact a personal injury solicitor for a free consultation
   • They will assess your case and explain your options
   • Evidence is gathered (medical reports, police records, witness statements)
   • The claim is submitted to the at-fault driver’s insurer
   • Your solicitor negotiates a settlement or takes the case to court if needed
7. No Win No Fee Car Accident Claims Most UK solicitors offer No Win No Fee services:
   • No legal fees unless your case is successful
   • The fee is a pre-agreed percentage of your compensation
   • No upfront payment required
   This makes it easier for everyone to access justice.
8. Time Limit to Claim for Injury You have 3 years from the date of the accident (or from the date you realised your injury was linked to the crash) to make a personal injury claim. Exceptions apply for:
   • Children (until age 21)
   • Those who lack mental capacity
   • Fatal accidents (3 years from date of death or knowledge of negligence)
9. What If the Other Driver Was Uninsured or Fled the Scene? You can still claim compensation through the Motor Insurers’ Bureau (MIB) if:
   • The other driver is uninsured
   • It was a hit-and-run accident
   • The vehicle can’t be traced
10. Do You Need to Go to Court?

No. Most injury claims are settled through negotiation with the insurer. Court proceedings are only needed if:

• The insurer denies liability
• You reject a low settlement offer
• There’s a dispute over evidence

11. Can You Claim If You Were Partially at Fault?

Yes. Under contributory negligence, you can still claim, though your compensation may be reduced according to your level of responsibility.

12. How Long Does a Car Accident Claim Take?

• Simple cases: 3–6 months
• Moderate injuries: 6–12 months
• Complex or serious injuries: 12–24 months or more

Your solicitor will guide you on the timeline based on your situation.

13. Evidence That Strengthens Your Claim

• Medical records and diagnosis
• Photos of the crash scene and injuries
• Witness statements
• CCTV or dashcam footage
• Police reports
• Receipts for medical and travel expenses

14. Claiming as a Passenger or Pedestrian

Passengers and pedestrians injured in a car accident are fully entitled to claim compensation—regardless of who was driving or at fault.

15. Choosing the Right Solicitor

• Look for a specialist in car accident injury claims
• Ensure they offer No Win No Fee
• Read reviews and client feedback
• Ask about their success rate and communication process

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Frequently Asked Questions

• Do I need a solicitor for a car accident injury claim?
  It’s strongly recommended—solicitors handle complex legal tasks and can maximise your payout.
• Can I claim for emotional distress?
  Yes, psychological harm is valid and can be included in your compensation.
• Is there a minimum injury level to claim?
  No—even minor injuries like whiplash or bruises can qualify.
• Can I switch solicitors during a claim?
  Yes. Your new solicitor will handle the transition for you.
• How much will I keep after legal fees?
  Most solicitors deduct a capped percentage (usually 25%) from your final compensation.
• What if I already accepted an insurance offer?
  If you signed a settlement, you usually can’t reopen the case. Always consult a solicitor first.

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Conclusion

If you’ve been injured in a car accident, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. From medical bills to lost wages and emotional trauma, a trusted solicitor will help you claim what you’re entitled to—often on a No Win No Fee basis. Act quickly to protect your rights, gather evidence, and begin your journey to recovery and justice.