1. What Are Personal Injuries Claims?
Personal injuries claims are legal actions taken by individuals who have suffered physical or psychological harm due to someone else’s negligence or wrongdoing. These claims aim to secure financial compensation for the pain, suffering, and financial losses the injury has caused.
Common personal injury claims include:
- Road traffic accidents
- Workplace accidents
- Slips, trips, and falls
- Medical negligence
- Public liability accidents
2. Who Can Make a Personal Injury Claim?
You may be eligible to make a claim if:
- You were injured because of someone else’s negligence
- The injury caused physical, emotional, or financial harm
- The claim is made within the legal time limit
You can claim for yourself or on behalf of someone else, such as a child or a vulnerable adult.
3. What Can You Claim Compensation For?
A successful personal injuries claim can cover:
- General damages: Pain, suffering, and loss of quality of life
- Special damages:
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Loss of earnings
- Travel costs for treatment
- Rehabilitation and therapy costs
- Adaptations to home or vehicle
- Care and assistance needs
The goal is to fully compensate you for all losses related to the injury.
4. Common Types of Personal Injury Cases
Examples of cases handled under personal injury law include:
- Car accident injuries (whiplash, fractures)
- Workplace injuries (manual handling accidents, slips on wet floors)
- Medical mistakes (surgical errors, misdiagnosis)
- Injuries in public spaces (pavement trips, supermarket falls)
- Dog bites or animal attacks
- Sports or recreational accidents
Each case requires proof of negligence and clear evidence of harm suffered.
5. How to Start a Personal Injury Claim
To start your claim:
- Seek immediate medical attention and document your injuries
- Report the accident to the relevant authority (e.g., employer, local council)
- Collect evidence such as photos, witness details, and medical reports
- Contact a personal injury solicitor
- Sign a No Win No Fee agreement if available
- Your solicitor will investigate and negotiate with insurers or file court proceedings if needed
Acting early strengthens your claim by preserving vital evidence.
6. No Win No Fee for Personal Injuries Claims
Most personal injury claims are handled on a No Win No Fee basis, meaning:
- No upfront legal costs
- You only pay a success fee if your claim is successful
- Success fees are capped (usually at 25% of your compensation)
This allows injured people to seek justice without financial risk.
7. Time Limits for Personal Injury Claims
Generally, you must make a claim within three years of:
- The date of the injury, or
- The date you first realised negligence caused your injury
Exceptions apply for:
- Children (the time limit starts from their 18th birthday)
- Individuals lacking mental capacity (no time limit while capacity is absent)
Prompt action ensures your rights are protected.
8. Choosing the Right Solicitor
When making a personal injury claim, select a solicitor who:
- Specializes in personal injury law
- Has experience with claims similar to yours
- Offers clear communication and regular updates
- Provides No Win No Fee representation
- Is regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA)
A skilled solicitor maximizes your chances of winning fair compensation.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long does a personal injury claim take?
Simple cases settle within 6–12 months. Complex cases may take longer, especially if serious injuries are involved.
2. What if I was partly at fault?
You can still claim, but your compensation may be reduced based on shared responsibility.
3. Will my claim go to court?
Most claims settle out of court through negotiation.
4. What documents do I need to start a claim?
Medical reports, accident reports, photographs, witness statements, and proof of financial losses.
5. Can I claim for psychological injuries?
Yes. Emotional trauma, PTSD, and anxiety are compensable if they result from negligence.
6. Can I claim for an accident abroad?
Yes, especially if it was part of a package holiday or caused by a negligent third party.
Conclusion
Personal injuries claims provide essential financial support for those harmed through no fault of their own. Whether you were injured in a car accident, at work, or in a public place, pursuing a claim ensures accountability and helps you rebuild your life. With No Win No Fee legal support, you can claim confidently and risk-free.