Personal Injury Law

The process for filing a personal injury claim in England and Wales typically begins with a free consultation with a qualified solicitor. They will assess the merits of your case and advise on the potential for success. If you choose to proceed, your solicitor will gather evidence, which may include medical records, accident reports, and witness statements. They will then send a ‘Letter of Claim’ to the party you hold responsible for your injury. If liability is accepted, your solicitor will negotiate a settlement on your behalf. If an agreement cannot be reached, your solicitor may advise proceeding to court. Throughout this process, your solicitor will act as your advocate, working to secure the best possible outcome for you.

In England and Wales, the general rule is that you have three years from the date of the accident or from the date when you realised you were injured (‘date of knowledge’) to file a personal injury claim. There are some exceptions, such as when the injured person is a child or lacks mental capacity. It is vital to consult with a solicitor as soon as possible after an accident to ensure you do not miss this deadline, as failing to file a claim within this period typically means you will be unable to seek compensation.

The compensation you may receive for a personal injury claim in England and Wales varies based on several factors, including the severity of your injuries, the impact on your life and work, and any expenses you’ve incurred due to the injury. Generally, compensation is divided into two main categories: General Damages (for pain, suffering, and loss of amenity) and Special Damages (for financial losses, such as medical expenses and loss of earnings, both past and future). Your solicitor will carefully compile evidence to support your claim for both General and Special Damages, and will negotiate rigorously to secure the maximum compensation to which you are entitled.

Most personal injury claims are settled outside court. However, if an agreement isn’t reached or if the other party disputes the claim, you might need to attend court.

Many solicitors in England & Wales offer ‘no win, no fee’ agreements. This means if your claim isn’t successful, you won’t have to pay any legal fees.