Car accidents can leave pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers alike with injuries that range in severity from minor to life-changing.
The distress caused by being involved in an incident can be overwhelming, and the situation further exacerbated by unexpected medical bills, loss of income due to the inability to work, the costs of vehicle repair, and the emotional suffering that comes with the experience.
While no amount of compensation can truly erase the distress caused by a car accident, it can certainly help to reduce the financial strain and stress associated with the resultant injuries.
This article guides you through claiming compensation for a personal injury after a car accident, providing useful advice to help you move forward from the incident.
How do I claim personal injury after a car accident?
Experiencing an injury after a car accident can have a significant, even life-altering, impact.
If you suffered an injury due to a car accident that wasn’t your fault, you might be eligible to claim financial compensation.
The process for making a claim varies according to the specific circumstances and extent of the injury. However, as a general guideline, you should follow these steps:
- Seek medical help – After the accident, you should get a thorough medical examination. This not only ensures that you’re on the path to recovery but also helps you to obtain a medical record of your injuries.
- Report the accident to the police – A formal accident report serves as an official record, which is a critical part of your claim. Ensure to report the accident to the police as soon as possible.
- Document details of the accident – Take photographs of the accident scene, damages to the vehicles involved, and your injuries. Collect witness information and their statements, if possible. Any other information that could support your claim should also be documented.
- Inform your insurance provider – Notify your insurance provider about the accident and the damages incurred. Be honest and accurate about the incident.
- Contact a personal injury solicitor – Navigating the claims process can be complex. A personal injury solicitor can guide you through it and help to ensure you receive the best possible outcome from your claim.
- File a personal injury claim – With the assistance of your solicitor, file a claim through the at-fault party’s insurance.
Remember, each car accident and personal injury claim is different. Contact our team of personal injury solicitors here at Mark Reynolds Solicitors for tailored advice and support.
What injuries can you claim for after a car accident?
After a car accident, you can claim for a wide range of different injuries, including compensation for the pain endured and any ongoing treatment or care costs incurred due to the accident.
The following list outlines some of the different types of injuries for which compensation can be claimed;
Physical injuries
Physical injuries can range from minor to severe and can include:
- Whiplash
- Back and spinal cord injuries
- Broken bones and fractures
- Internal injuries
- Cuts, scrapes, and bruises
Psychological injuries
Accidents can also lead to psychological trauma. Such injuries include:
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Anxiety and depression
- Phobias
- Sleep disorders
Fatal injuries
In the unfortunate event that a loved one loses their life due to a car accident, compensation can be claimed on their behalf. This can help to cover funeral costs, loss of future earnings, and the emotional trauma associated with the loss.
Every case is unique, and the type of injuries sustained will significantly influence the claim. Therefore, seeking professional legal advice is essential to understand what you can claim in your specific situation.
Can I claim for anxiety after a car accident?
Yes, you can claim compensation for psychological injuries, including anxiety, resulting from a car accident, but doing so can be challenging.
To do so, you must be able to prove that the mental illness is directly linked to the car accident; this is usually achieved using medical records and professional testimonies.
How long after a car accident can you make a personal injury claim?
Generally, you should make a personal injury claim for a car accident within three years of the accident date. There are, however, a few exceptions to this rule. You may be able to claim outside of this limitation period if the person injured in the accident was a child under 18, lacks the mental capacity to make a claim, or has “late-appearing injuries”.
It is always in your best interests to make a claim immediately after the accident to ensure the best possible result.
Who pays personal injury claims for a car accident?
In most cases, the at-fault driver’s insurance company pays out for a personal injury claim. If the driver at fault has no insurance or is untraceable, it may be possible to claim compensation from the Motor Insurance Bureau (MIB).
File a personal injury claim with Mark Reynolds Solicitors
For more help or advice with how to make a personal injury claim for car accident, contact our team of solicitors here at Mark Reynolds Solicitors by calling us on 0800 002 9577.