Getting injured because of someone else’s carelessness can turn your life upside down. From pain and lost income to ongoing medical needs, the impact can be serious. That’s why personal injury compensation claims exist — to help people get financial support and recognition for what they’ve been through.
This guide explains when you might be entitled to make a claim, what evidence is needed, and how the process usually works in the UK.
Understanding Who Can Make a Personal Injury Claim
To have a valid case, a few conditions must be met:
- You were owed a duty of care – someone had a legal responsibility to keep you safe.
- That duty was broken – they acted carelessly or failed to act when they should have.
- You suffered harm – your injury, whether physical or psychological, happened because of that breach.
If all three apply, you may be eligible to start a claim for compensation.
Different Situations Where Claims May Arise
Injuries at Work
Employers are required by law to keep staff safe. The Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 clearly states that every employer must take practical steps to reduce risks in the workplace.
If this duty isn’t met and you are hurt, you may have a right to claim. Examples of work-related accidents include:
- Faulty or unmaintained machinery causing injury.
- Manual handling injuries due to lack of training.
- Falls or trips caused by cluttered walkways or wet floors.
- Psychological harm from work-related stress or unsafe conditions.
Employers should always assess risks, provide proper training, and supply protective equipment when needed. When they don’t, you could be entitled to claim compensation for the injuries and losses you’ve suffered.
Road Traffic Accidents
Accidents on the road are another common cause of personal injury claims. All drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians are expected to follow the rules of the Highway Code and act responsibly.
A claim may arise if:
- A distracted driver crashes into your car.
- A speeding motorist fails to stop at a crossing and hits you.
- A careless driver pulls out in front of your bike without looking.
Road traffic accidents can lead to injuries such as whiplash, broken bones, or long-term trauma. If another road user’s negligence caused your injuries, you may be able to recover damages for your pain and financial losses.
Public Place Accidents
Owners or occupiers of public places must make sure their premises are reasonably safe for visitors under the Occupiers’ Liability Act 1957.
You could have grounds to claim if:
- You slipped on an unmarked spillage in a restaurant.
- A faulty handrail at a public building caused you to fall.
- Poorly stacked items in a shop fell and injured you.
If the organisation responsible for maintaining the space failed to take proper precautions, and you were hurt as a result, you could make a claim for compensation.
How Long Do You Have to File a Claim?
In most situations, you must start your claim within three years from the date of the accident or from the date you became aware of your injury, according to the Limitation Act 1980.
However, there are exceptions:
- Claims involving children can be started by a litigation friend before the child turns 18, or by the individual themselves before they turn 21.
- Those who lack the mental capacity to handle their case do not face a time limit unless capacity is restored.
It’s always best to act quickly, as gathering fresh evidence is much easier soon after the incident.
What Kind of Evidence Do You Need?
Strong evidence can make a big difference to your personal injury claim. Here are some common examples:
- Medical evidence: Reports and assessments from doctors that confirm the type and extent of your injury.
- Photographs: Images of the accident scene or visible injuries can support your version of events.
- Witness details: Contact information for anyone who saw what happened.
- Video footage: CCTV or dashcam recordings showing the incident.
- Financial documents: Receipts or bank statements proving expenses like medical costs or lost wages.
The clearer and more complete your evidence is, the easier it becomes to show liability and the impact of your injury.
How Compensation Is Worked Out
Compensation is meant to help you recover from both the physical and financial effects of your injury. It’s typically split into two categories:
- General damages – cover your pain, suffering, and any loss of quality of life.
- Special damages – cover financial losses such as medical costs, care expenses, and loss of earnings.
The amount you could receive depends on how serious your injury is and how it has affected your life. The Judicial College Guidelines are often used to give an indication of typical compensation levels, but every case is assessed individually.
Steps in the Claims Process
If you decide to move forward with a claim, it usually follows these stages:
- Notification: The person or organisation believed to be responsible is informed of your intention to claim.
- Rehabilitation: Your medical and rehabilitation needs are reviewed early in the process.
- Letter of Claim: A detailed summary of your injury and how it occurred is sent to the defendant.
- Response: The defendant has a set period to acknowledge and investigate the claim.
- Evidence exchange: Both sides share information and documents.
- Medical assessment: An independent expert evaluates your condition.
- Negotiation: Offers to settle the claim may be made and reviewed.
- Alternative resolution: If an agreement isn’t reached, mediation or court proceedings may follow.
Having professional guidance can help you manage this process smoothly and avoid unnecessary delays.
The Role of No Win No Fee Solicitors
Hiring a solicitor can make your claim more efficient, but many people worry about the cost. This is where No Win No Fee solicitors can help.
Under a Conditional Fee Agreement (CFA), you won’t have to pay any upfront fees. You only pay a success fee if your case wins, and this fee is capped by law. This setup means that you can pursue your claim without financial stress.
Your solicitor will deal with insurers, gather evidence, and handle negotiations, leaving you free to focus on recovery and returning to normal life.
Why It’s Worth Making a Claim
Some people hesitate to claim because they worry it might seem like they’re making a fuss. In reality, claiming compensation helps ensure that those responsible are held accountable and that others are protected from similar risks.
A successful claim can also make a real difference to your financial situation. It can help cover treatment costs, travel expenses, or time off work — all while recognising the personal impact the injury has had on your life.
Get Trusted Advice Today
If you want clear guidance on personal injury compensation claims or need help starting your own, visit advice.co.uk. Their friendly team can answer your questions and connect you with experienced No Win No Fee solicitors who specialise in personal injury cases.
Reach out today for free, practical advice — and find out what support you could be entitled to after your accident.
