Most expert injury lawyers work on a no win no fee basis, which means you don’t have to pay any legal fees upfront to make a claim for compensation. If your claim is unsuccessful, you will not have to pay anything to your lawyer.

Unfortunately there is no simple answer here.

The duration of the personal injury claims process can vary depending on various factors such as the complexity of your claim, the severity of your injuries, and the cooperation of all parties involved.

In straightforward cases where liability is clear, and your injuries are relatively minor, the claims process can conclude within a few months. This includes gathering evidence, such as medical records and witness statements, negotiating with insurance companies, and reaching a settlement agreement.

However, in more complex cases involving severe injuries or disputed liability, the process can take much longer. It may require more extensive investigations, consultations with medical experts, and potentially even litigation if a fair settlement cannot be reached.

Additionally, external factors such as court schedules, the backlog of cases, and the willingness of the opposing party to cooperate can also impact the timeline.

Yes, there are time limits, known as statutes of limitations, to bring a personal injury claim in the UK. These time limits vary depending on the type of claim and the circumstances surrounding it.

In general, the standard time limit for personal injury claims is three years from the date of the incident, or from the date when you first became aware of your injury. However, there are exceptions and variations to this rule.

For example, if the injury occurred during childhood, the three-year time limit may not start until the individual turns 18. Additionally, in cases involving industrial disease or medical negligence, where the symptoms may not become apparent immediately, the time limit may start from the date of knowledge or diagnosis.

It’s essential to be aware of these time limits and take legal action within the prescribed time-frame. Failing to do so may result in your claim being time-barred, meaning you will lose your right to seek compensation.

In a word, no.

Employers have a legal obligation to provide a safe working environment and take reasonable steps to prevent accidents and injuries from happening. Therefore, if you make a personal injury claim against your employer, it is illegal for them to retaliate against you by terminating your employment or subjecting you to unfair treatment. Such actions would be considered unfair dismissal which is prohibited by employment laws.

Also, don’t worry about your employer being out of pocket when they settle your claim either. Personal injury claims are typically handled by insurance companies, and any compensation awarded is usually paid by your employer’s liability insurance policy.

If you have concerns about job security or potential retaliation, it is advisable to seek legal advice from a qualified employment solicitor who can guide you on your rights and provide the necessary support.

No. Compensation awarded to you in a personal injury claim is generally not subject to income tax in the UK. The purpose of personal injury compensation is to restore you to the position you would have been in had the injury not occurred. Therefore, it is considered non-taxable and should not be included as part of your taxable income.

Saying that, specific circumstances may vary, and there may be exceptions or other factors to consider. For instance, if the compensation includes elements such as loss of earnings or interest, these portions might be subject to taxation. If you’re unsure, consult with a qualified tax advisor or accountant to obtain accurate and personalised information regarding your specific compensation and any potential tax implications.

When making a personal injury claim, the party you typically make the claim against depends on the specific circumstances of your case. For example:

• Workplace accidents: If you’ve been injured at work, your claim is usually made against your employer. In many cases, the claim is handled by your employer’s liability insurance.

• Road traffic accidents: If you were involved in a car accident or any other road traffic incident, the claim is typically made against the at-fault driver’s insurance company. If the other party is uninsured or cannot be identified, you may need to make a claim through the Motor Insurers’ Bureau (MIB), or your own insurance if you have relevant coverage.

• Public liability incidents: If you sustained injuries in a public place (e.g., a slip and fall in a supermarket), your claim is generally made against the responsible party, such as the property owner, occupier, or local authority.

• Product liability: If you were injured by a defective product, your claim can be made against the manufacturer, distributor, or retailer of the product, depending on the circumstances.

Your injury solicitor should be a seasoned professional, determined to do their very best on your behalf. While the vast majority of compensation claims never actually make it as far as court (as most people realise it’s quicker and cheaper to settle the claim beforehand), if you do have to go you’ll have your solicitor at your side every step of the way, making sure that the process is as stress-free as possible and that you get every single penny of the compensation you are entitled to.

Anyone who has been the victim of an accident that comes under the heading of the previously detailed criteria may well be in a position to make a claim. If you feel this may apply to you then get in touch free on 0800 234 6438 with as many details of your accident as you can recall.

A trained legal adviser will listen to your circumstances and give an honest appraisal as to whether they feel there is a case to be argued. If there is, an expert lawyer will build the strongest possible case on your behalf and in the vast majority of cases you won’t have to pay a single penny up front. In the event that you should lose your claim, you won’t end up owing anything.

The whiplash reforms, implemented from 31st May, 2021, aim to address concerns surrounding fraudulent and exaggerated whiplash claims while making the claims process more efficient. These changes are intended to benefit individuals like you by streamlining procedures and potentially reducing the cost of motor insurance.

One significant aspect of these reforms is the introduction of a whiplash injury tariff. This tariff sets out fixed compensation amounts based on the duration and severity of the whiplash injury you have suffered. The purpose is to provide consistency and transparency in determining the compensation you may be entitled to.

Additionally, the reforms increase the small claims track limit for personal injury claims related to road traffic accidents. This means that for whiplash claims within the £1,000 to £5,000 range, you may need to navigate the claims process independently or seek legal representation at your own expense. We understand that this might sound overwhelming, but we’re here to guide you through each step and ensure you receive the support you need.

As part of the whiplash reform, you now need to obtain medical evidence of your whiplash, from a qualified medical expert. Your medical records will provide an assessment of your whiplash injury and its impact on your life. It serves as a crucial piece of evidence to support your claim, ensuring that your voice is heard and your injuries are properly acknowledged.

To make the claims process more convenient and accessible, an online portal called the Official Injury Claim (OIC) portal has been introduced. This user-friendly platform allows you to submit your whiplash claim electronically and maintain direct communication with insurers throughout the process.

We understand that these changes may raise concerns and uncertainties. That’s why we’re here to provide the guidance and support you need. Don’t let the reforms discourage you from seeking the justice you deserve for your whiplash injury. Contact us today for a free initial consultation.