Following an accident that results in injury, you are likely to have a lot on your mind, and compensation may not be the first. Your health is the most important factor, and the road to recovery may be a slow process.

Reaching out to a personal injury solicitor, when you have a better idea of your recovery process, can help offer clarity and guidance on potential claims you may be entitled to make.

Many of our clients understand they may be entitled to a claim, but need support in getting the process underway and making decisions that increase their chance of success.

Here is what to consider after an injury, and when to consider a personal injury claim.

Timing is important

Almost all personal injury claims in the UK are bound by a three-year limitation period. In simple terms, legal proceedings must commence within three years from the date of the accident. In certain cases where the injury becomes apparent after the accident, this limitation period can be extended. 

Please note that some claims may have even shorter limitation periods, such as criminal injuries or accidents that occur outside of the UK. We can provide guidance on the specific limitations relevant to your situation.

The process of your personal injury claim

The process of your personal injury claim will vary depending on the details and circumstances of your claim.

First, we send a formal letter to the person or party responsible for your injury. We will arrange for you to have an independent medical examination to provide unbiased evidence of your injuries. Your doctor will conduct an examination and discuss your well-being since the accident or injury. They will then write a report, which will be submitted to the defendant.

At this stage, the defendant can accept responsibility for your injury, and you will receive a compensation offer. If you agree with the offer, the case can be settled, or our personal injury solicitors can negotiate a higher amount. If the case is settled in your favour, you will receive your compensation, and the case will be closed in your favour.

If the party does not accept responsibility and the case is lost, then, as we work on a no-win no-fee basis, you will not have to pay anything. However, upon your instruction or if we feel this is unfair to you, our team will negotiate on your behalf, submitting further evidence where possible. If the case is then lost, you still have nothing to pay.

In some cases where our solicitors believe your case can be won, we will ask if you would like to proceed further and take the defendant to court. However, only a very small percentage of claims go to court.

Timeframe to resolution

The process and circumstances of your claim will impact the time to resolution.

Typically, we resolve uncomplicated road traffic accident cases within 6-9 months, although workplace accidents and incidents involving slips and trips on highways may take longer.

In cases of intricate and severe injuries, settlements can extend to several years owing to the intricate nature of the issues at hand and the necessary time for a comprehensive evaluation of the actual injury consequences. 

The specific durations are also contingent on whether the opposing party acknowledges or contests liability. Talking to our solicitors in Portsmouth can help you discover the estimated time to settle at the start of your claim.

What might your compensation be?

Each case is approached individually, and we can advise on how much we believe your case is worth only after receiving all evidence regarding your injuries and associated losses.

Compensation can range from approximately £1,000.00-£5,000.00 for a straightforward road traffic accident claim to a seven-figure sum for life-changing and extensive injuries.  

Get support

Andrew & Andrew Solicitors in Portsmouth have experience in personal claims compensations and operate on a ‘no win, no fee’ basis. We provide bespoke personal service, and our team pride themselves on getting results.

We are here to help whenever you are ready. To get started, please talk to our team.

Andrew & Andrew Solicitors proudly serve clients across Hampshire from our Portsmouth, Emsworth, and Wickham offices.