Road traffic accidents are extremely common, and whilst many accidents are minor. Unfortunately, some people may obtain more serious injuries. If you have been in a car accident that wasn’t your fault and were injured, then you may be able to claim compensation.
Whether you were driving the car, or a passenger or even a pedestrian hit by the car, you have the right to be compensated. This may be in terms of your medical expenses, lost income, lost potential future income or any other expenses directly related to the accident.
How Do You Make a Claim?
At H McPartland and Sons, our solicitors will provide you with support and assistance through every stage of the claim and compensation process for a road traffic collision.
What does a solicitor help with to process a claim for compensation?
McPartland & Sons will gather information about the road traffic accident to allow us to assess your eligibility to make a claim, and once the claim is deemed eligible, we will arrange a medical examination to assess the severity of your injuries and the estimated recovery time.
We will then gather evidence about the accident. This will include asking for details such as when, where, and how the accident occurred. We will help you gather additional evidence, including photographs, witness statements and your medical records. It is vital that we gather as much information as possible, as this will create a strong case for your claim.
In most cases, the claim will be settled outside of court, particularly where there is strong evidence of negligence and liability. If the defendant seeks an out-of-court settlement, we will discuss an appropriate compensation settlement with their representatives. On occasion, the case may go to court. This is likely if the negligence is disputed or is shared between more than one party. Regardless of the situation, we will be there to support you every step of the way.
The Importance of Collating Evidence About the Road Traffic Accident
As soon as you are able, make notes about the accident including as many details as you can, even those that may seem insignificant. You should also maintain all documents and receipts associated with the accident; these may include:
- Photographs of the vehicle, the scene of the road traffic accident and any injuries after the crash
- Documents related to your medical care i.e., X-Rays, details of doctors’ visits or prescriptions
- Receipts of all miscellaneous costs i.e., taxis or childcare
- A Letter from your employer verifying any lost work hours and stating how much income you would have lost
- A daily diary to record all details relating to the car accident such as the treatment involved and any discomfort and pain you experienced.,
- Keep a note of your emotional state, outlining any difficulties you overcome daily.
Gathering this evidence will help to strengthen your case and help you receive the compensation you deserve.
How Long Will the Claim Take?
The length of the road traffic claim will depend on two things.
- the seriousness of your injuries and
- whether the other party admits responsibility.
For example, if you suffer a relatively minor injury and the defendant accepts responsibility, then your claim could be settled in a matter of months. However, if you are suffering from more serious injuries, then the claim may take longer as more medical evidence is required.
How Much Compensation Will I Receive?
The amount of compensation you will receive will depend on the nature and severity of your injuries from the road traffic accident. Additionally, any costs or losses you’ve experienced because of the accident will be taken into consideration.
Compensation claims are based on the following:
- Medical and travel expenses you’ve incurred
- Your care and support needs
- Current and future loss of earnings
- Modifications to your home
- Your pain and suffering
At McPartland & Sons our experienced solicitors treat every client on an individual basis to assess their claim and assist with any questions. If you or someone you care about has been involved in a road traffic accident and you think you may have a claim, contact us today and talk to a member of the team to find out how we can help you.
Related Blogs: