A Brief Guide to an Accident Claim

Because UK accident claim law is relatively complex it is advisable to consult an accident claim solicitor. Despite the complexities, the victim of the accident has the right to be aware of the accident claim process and whether or not they have the right to make a claim, even if their understanding is only basic.

Eleven million accidents annually cause person injury and solicitors estimate that two million of these are caused by someone else. This is why the law allows accident victims to claim monetary compensation for their injury and losses. The civil courts cover this type of claim, known also as personal injury.

Most solicitors work on a no win no fee basis. As a result, only cases with a reasonable chance of success will be taken on. There are various factors which affect chance of success and right to make an accident claim.

The first issue is the timing. A limitation period of three years means that if the accident happened over three years ago it is incredibly likely to fail. However, if the injured person is under 18 at the time of the accident, the three year period only starts at their 18th birthday.

The injuries sustained in the accident and whether they were properly recorded by a doctor at the time will also affect the outcome of the claim. The records made by the doctor at the time of the injury will play a vital role as evidence in the case. Therefore accident victims should seek medical advice quickly following an accident.

The success or otherwise of the case will also depend upon any witness accounts. The solicitor will communicate with any police or emergency service people who saw or attended to the accident. Any other witnesses are also helpful. It is obviously better if witnesses give their version of events relatively soon after the incident before they forget any details. However, the victim should never consult the witnesses themselves. Collecting names and addresses of witnesses is advisable, though.

Finally, other evidence is important too. Victims should take photos of the scene of the accident and their injuries. Keeping a daily diary during the recovery period will be useful too. Victims should also keep all receipts to prove the extra costs they have incurred as a result of their injury.

Accident claim law in the UK can be very complex, but it is important for accident victims to be aware of their rights and the process of making a claim. This information is meant only as a brief guide, seeking the advice of an accident claim solicitor is still very important.