Even minor car accidents can leave you with long-term injuries. Insurers may try to make you an early offer, but it's important to take impartial legal advice before you accept. Our car accident lawyers handle the majority of our car accident compensation claims on a No Win No Fee basis.
Being caught in a car accident is an extremely distressing experience for everyone involved. The implications of a serious injury can disrupt your normal everyday life, impact your finances, and leave you with severe mental trauma.
Making a car accident injury claim can seem daunting, particularly if you are still recovering from your injuries. However, making a claim for compensation can give you access to further support and advice, as well as providing the means to cover the cost of additional treatment.
When can I make a car accident injury claim?
If you’ve been injured in a car accident that wasn’t your fault, whether you’re a driver, passenger, cyclist or pedestrian, you may be entitled to claim compensation.
Claims can be pursued against a driver, motorcyclist, cyclist or pedestrian, if you can prove that their negligent behaviour caused the accident, resulting in your injuries. In cases where liability for the accident is uncertain, it may still be possible to make a claim, though if it is found that you were partial liable, the total amount of compensation you receive may be reduced to reflect this.
If you’re unsure whether you have a claim, it is always best to speak to a specialist car accident lawyer, who will be able to provide expert legal advice on your particular circumstances. You can speak to a member of our team by contacting us online.
How much compensation can I claim for a car accident injury?
The amount of compensation you can claim for a car accident injury will largely depend upon the extent of your injuries and the impact they have on your day-to-day life. As a general rule, the more severe your injuries are, the more compensation you will be entitled to. This is the case for both physical and psychological injuries.
What’s more, the introduction of the Civil Liability Act 2018 and the Whiplash Reforms on 31st May 2021 has changed the way in which whiplash claims are handled and set out the amount of compensation you will be able to claim. You can read more about claiming for whiplash here.
There are other factors that could contribute to the total compensation you receive. For instance, if it was deemed that your own actions contributed to the severity of your injuries (for example, you weren’t wearing a seatbelt), the amount you receive may be lowered in recognition of this.
What if I wasn't the driver? Watch Jack's story
Jack was left paralyzed from the chest down after he was involved in a hit and run collision. Slater and Gordon lawyers not only helped him recover compensation but also helped to get his life back on track.
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How long do I have to claim compensation for a car accident injury?
Generally speaking, you need to submit your claim to the court within three years of a car accident. However, time limits vary in different circumstances, for example, you may be allowed longer if you're claiming on behalf of a child or someone with diminished mental capacity or you may have less time if your accident happened in another country or you’re claiming through the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority.
It's important therefore to seek legal advice as soon as possible following a car accident.
Can I still make a car accident claim if I was at fault?
Many car accidents are caused by a combination of errors, and it can sometimes be difficult to establish what really happened in the immediate aftermath when emotions are running high.
Even if you believe you were at fault, that may not be the case in purely legal terms, and another party involved may also be partially responsible. It is always worth speaking to a specialist car accident lawyer about what happened to better understand what your options are. Even if you were partially responsible, you may be entitled to claim compensation.
Really helpful and always on the other side of the phone if needed. Quick and easy service.
Ashley
Excellent communication, in constant contact with the latest info regarding your case.
David
Everything is moving along quickly and smoothly. Good professional service I'm glad I chose Slater and Gordon.
Kenny Jackson
Why choose Slater and Gordon’s car accident lawyers?
We understand how difficult it can be when you’ve been involved in a car accident. Our expert car accident lawyers are leaders in their field and are on hand to help support you throughout your recovery; from helping you receiving the best possible compensation, to providing access to top-quality rehabilitation and treatment.
Consistently ranked highly in reputable independent legal directories such as Chambers and Partners and the Legal 500, many of our solicitors also hold Association of Personal Injury Lawyers (APIL) accreditation. We also work with several charities who support those who have suffered serious injuries as a result of car accidents, such as Brake, Road Peace, Aftermath and After Matters.
We are an award winning law firm and have a dedicated team of road traffic accident solicitors to advise and guide you – no matter how complex your situation may be.
Affordability and advice
We're able to offer affordable expert legal advice and can provide guidance on all aspects of road traffic accident claims. Our Initial Consultation provides tailored advice on your situation giving you clear guidance and options regarding next steps.
Tailored advice
We understand that every claim is different – so we are able to provide tailored advice and guidance to suit your individual needs.
Local access
We are a national law firm, with legal experts available locally across the UK. Meetings can be arranged via telephone or video call, to suit your requirements.
Speak to one of our road traffic accident solicitors today
How long will it take to settle a car accident injury claim?
Every car accident injury claim is different, so it can be difficult to know how long a claim will take to settle. There are a number of factors that can influence how long the process will take, such as how quickly the other party accepts liability for the accident.
Your solicitor will be on hand through the process to answer any questions, and will work hard to ensure legal proceedings are progressed as quickly as possible to allow you to focus on your recovery.
What evidence will I need to start a car accident injury claim?
To make a successful car accident injury claim, you will need to be able to prove that the accident was caused by someone else’s negligence. To do this, you should collect as much information as possible from the scene, including photographs of the scene and any damage caused, the details of the other drivers/parties involved, and the details of any witnesses.
You will also be required to undergo a medical examination, to help determine the extent of your injuries, and how quickly or how much you can be expected to recover.
Can I claim against an uninsured driver?
It is possible to pursue a car accident claim if the driver at fault is uninsured. The Motor Insurer’s Bureau (MIB) was set up to help people who have been involved in an accident with an uninsured driver, or a driver who flees the scene of an accident and cannot be traced. Claims made through MIB will consider damage to your vehicle and property, as well as any injuries sustained.
Do I have to use the solicitors recommended to me by my insurance company?
No. Many insurance companies will have relationships with particular law firms, who they will recommend you approach if you’re considering making a car accident injury claim. You do not, however, need to use the firm they recommend, and you are free to approach another law firm if you wish.
Really helpful and always on the other side of the phone if needed. Quick and easy service. Ashley
Excellent communication, in constant contact with the latest info regarding your case. David
Everything is moving along quickly and smoothly. Good professional service I'm glad I chose Slater and Gordon. Kenny Jackson