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Road Traffic Accident

Have you or a loved one been involved in a road traffic accident? 

Even if you were partially to blame, you may still be entitled to compensation. 

You can also make a claim for compensation when you were not the driver of the vehicle, for example when the driver was under the influence of drink or drugs. 

If so, it is important that you speak to us as soon as possible, taking advantage of our free first 30-minute consultation. We will then be in a position to provide initial advice as to whether you are likely to be successful in your claim and also what compensatory award, you may be entitled to receive. This also provides the earliest opportunity to record your instructions, whilst the memories of the accident are at their most reliable. 

If your claim has merits, we will progress matters on a “no win no fee” basis. This arrangement protects you from upfront costs. In the event your claim is unsuccessful there will be nothing to pay, save for any pre agreed disbursements. Providing that you have fully complied with the terms of the arrangement.

If your claim succeeds your opponent will be responsible for paying most of your legal fees, with any outstanding amount deductible from your compensation. We will as a matter of course, advise you about any such liability at your initial consultation.

To make a claim, you usually have a 3-year period after the accident, however some exceptions apply which have the benefit of extending this 3-year period. 

1. If your loved one is unable to make a claim themselves due to mental incapacity, then there is no time limit to be applied.
2. If making a claim on behalf of a child, then this can be acted upon at any point before the child turns 18. Even after this time, a claim can be brought up to the age of 21.
3. If your road traffic accident occurred abroad, you should be aware that time limits in other countries could be shorter than in the UK. However, this does not preclude you from making a claim in the UK, dependent upon your qualifying circumstances.
4. In cases where your injuries are caused by a deliberate criminal act, you may be eligible to progress a claim through the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA). Please see our separate “Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority Claims”, which provides helpful and informative information as to how you may benefit from the scheme. 

The time necessary to complete the claim process is dependent on a number of factors but primarily,

1. The extent and seriousness of your injuries
2. Whether your opponent admits liability

Minor injuries and trauma can be settled relatively quickly, usually in a few months. More serious injuries and injuries where it is unclear as to the likely extent and continuing treatment necessary, will take longer. Usually in these cases, medical evidence will be required in order to resolve the level of compensation to be paid. 

The amount of compensation you could receive will depend upon a number of factors to include, but not limited to;

1. The nature and severity of your injuries, both physical and psychological
2.  Any current or future loss of income, primarily earnings
3. Any medical and travel expenses you have incurred
4. The amount of care and support required both now and in the future
5. Any modifications necessary in your home to meet your medical needs both for now and in the future
6. The necessity for any mobility or medical aids both for now and in the future
7. Your pain and suffering

If your case involves criminal conduct such as a “hit and run” accident, then this may also extend the time necessary to agree compensation, as well as any claim which is disputed by the opponent. In some circumstances where an agreement cannot be reached and your opponent disputes liability, then regrettably court action may well be your only option. 

Our aim is to secure you the best possible outcome and the compensation you deserve, within the shortest possible period of time.

We offer a bespoke, ethical and professional service to all our clients. We are a local firm solidly embedded within the local community fully committed to meeting the expectations of our clients.