Frequently Asked Questions
Our policy is to keep things as simple as possible for you. Below we have compiled a list of the 10 most common questions people ask before making a compensation claim. Click on a question to find out more.
To see guidelines on the level of compensation awarded for a particular injury see compensation calculator.
Do I have a compensation claim?
Every claim submitted to us is looked at by our experienced panel solicitors who will then advise you on the merits of you making a claim. Every case is different and it is important that you ask a qualified solicitor to see if you have a claim.
For a free assessment, complete our online claim form and our solicitors will let you know if you have a compensation claim.
How long will my claim take?
It is difficult to say at this early stage how long a claim will take to settle. This depends very much on whether the defendant admits or disputes liability and the time it takes to obtain medical evidence for your injuries.
Our panel solicitors will deal with your claim as quickly as possible but will also ensure that they do not settle too early until a reasonable offer is made. Every effort will be made to get you the best possible compensation amount for your injuries and you will be regularly informed on how your claim is progressing.
Will I have to go to Court?
This is unlikely. Only a small number of cases ever have to go to court. The vast majority of cases are settled without the need of going to court as this increases the costs in the claim which the defending party would have to pay if you go on to win. It is therefore in their interest to settle sooner to save on additional costs.
If your claim has to proceed to court, it may still mean that you do not have to attend. Your evidence can be submitted in a statement which will be prepared by your solicitor in advance. If you absolutely have to attend court to give evidence, the legal team working on your case will prepare you well in advance of this.
How much will I get?
Each case is assessed on its own merits and an assessment on the quantum of damages can be made once a medical report has been prepared. Much will depend on the nature of your injuries, the length of time you have suffered, future prognosis and what losses you have suffered for example, loss of earnings.
To see guidance on the compensation amounts for the different types of injuries, see compensation calculator .
You will receive 100% of your compensation. Our service is completely free and we do not make any deductions.
Is there a time limit to make a claim?
Yes. Different time limits apply to different types of personal injury cases.
For example, in road traffic accidents, accidents at work or accidents in public places this is usually 3 years from the date the accident happened.
If you are thinking of making a compensation claim, we strongly advise that you seek legal advice as soon as possible as failure to comply with the time limit could bar you from making a claim at all.
If you are unsure of the time limit for your compensation claim, or would like to check to see if you are still within time to make a claim, call us now and one of our advisers can check this for you for free.
What if the accident was partly my fault, will I still have a claim?
Even if an accident or injury was caused partially as a result of your own negligence, you still may have a chance to make a claim.
For example, a driver who fails to wear his seatbelt and subsequently suffers injury in an accident caused by someone else, the driver will be partially negligent for his own injuries for failing to wear his seatbelt. This is known as Contributory Negligence.
If it is then found for example, that by the driver failing to wear his seatbelt he contributed 25% towards his own injuries, then the defendants offer of settlement would include a reduction of 25% to reflect this.
Will I have to pay any fees?
Absolutely not. Your claim will be dealt with on a No Win No Fee basis or through your Legal Expenses Insurance policy if you have one. Our panel solicitors will take on your claim on the basis that their legal costs can be recoverable from the defendant, or more usually his insurers. For protection against the unfortunate event that your claim fails, then your legal costs and the defendants legal costs will all still be covered under separate insurance which will be taken out depending on the complexities of the case. You will not have to pay for this insurance policy as the cost is included in the legal costs of your claim. You will be fully consulted by our solicitors on the outset regarding funding for your claim. No fees are asked from you at any time, and no deductions will be made by us, which means you will receive 100% of your compensation.
Will I have to visit my solicitor?
It would not be necessary for you to visit the solicitor dealing with your claim. Communication can be done by telephone, email and correspondence. In serious personal injury cases, your solicitor can come out to see you.
What if I want to know more?
If you have any questions or require more information, call us to speak to one of our claims advisers. Our knowledge and experience in the personal injury field goes beyond 8 years. Call us on 0800 505 3397 or email us at info@theaccidentteam.co.uk
Alternatively request a call back and we can call you when it’s convenient to you.
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