If you have suffered injury / illness and loss because of an accident or incident that was someone else’s fault, you may be able to claim compensation. Understanding the personal injury claims process can be complicated.
This guide walks you through the key steps in the process of bringing a personal injury claim and helping you understand what to expect should you need to undertake this action.
1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Whether your injury / illness seems minor or severe, it is important to get checked by a medical professional. Medical records will also serve as vital evidence if you need to make a claim at a later date.
2. Report the Accident
Once you are safe, report the accident to the relevant person, authority, or organisation:
- At work: Inform your employer and ensure the incident is recorded in the accident book.
- In public: Notify the local council, authority, organisation, or property owner.
- On the road: Report the incident to the police and your insurance company.
- To any other third party: if possible, inform the person or organisation you believe was responsible.
This step helps establish a formal record of the incident, which can support your claim later.
It also enables the third party involved to take steps to prevent anyone else getting injured / suffering illness in the future from having a similar accident or incident.
3. Gather Evidence
Collect as much information as you can:
- Photos of the accident / incident scene and your injuries
- Contact details of any witnesses
- Copies of medical reports and receipts for expenses
- Any correspondence with the third party
The more evidence you have, the stronger your case will be.
4. Speak to a Personal Injury Solicitor
A solicitor can assess your case and explain your options.
Most offer a free initial consultation and work on a “no win, no fee” basis, meaning you won’t have to pay any fees unless your claim is successful.
5. Start the Claims Process
Your solicitor will:
- Notify the third party of your intention to claim
- Gather further evidence and obtain medical reports in support of your injuries / illness
- Value your claim for personal injury and loss
- Attempt to negotiate a settlement
Most claims are settled without having to issue court proceedings.
However, if an agreement cannot be reached with the third party, your solicitor may advise issuing the claim in the courts and taking the case to a hearing.
6. Time Limits to Keep in Mind
In the UK, you usually have three years from the date of the accident (or from when you became aware of your injury / illness) to start a claim.
There are exceptions for children and those lacking mental capacity, so it is best to seek advice as soon as possible.
7. Receiving Compensation
If your claim is successful, you could receive compensation for:
- Pain and suffering and the injuries sustained
- Medical / treatment expenses
- Any loss of earnings
- Travel costs and other related expenses
The amount depends on the severity of your injury / illness and its impact on your life.
Need Help Starting Your Claim?
We’re here to guide you every step of the way. Contact Louise Plant today for a free, no-obligation consultation, or for help in understanding the personal injury claims process.
You can also visit our dedicated Personal injury pages here for more detailed information and support resources.
