Being injured in any sort of accident as the result of another person’s negligence is frustrating and distressing and the consequences can be far reaching. As well as the physical pain, distress and trauma can last longer, as can the treatment, ongoing care and absence from work. These are just some of the reasons why making an accident claim might be the right thing for you after your injury. But the process of doing so is shrouded in secrecy and few people are fully aware of what to do.
The first thing to do before making an accident claim is obviously to have your injuries treated. Not only is this important to your physical and mental recovery but it will also help your accident claim to ensure that your doctor has recorded the details of any injuries.
If your injury takes place at work it is important the health and safety officer is notified and that the accident is logged in the company’s accident book. You should also inform your trade union if you have one because they may be able to offer support and advice on recovery and making an accident claim.
Keep receipts for any extra expenses incurred in the time following the accident, such as for taxi trips to hospital appointments, medication or early private treatment because you may be able to claim such costs back in the accident claim.
It is important to contact an accident claim solicitor as early as you can once you’ve made the decision to claim because in some cases the evidence you require could disappear. For example, in cases of injury sustained tripping on defective pavements, your evidence is lost as soon as the problem is repaired.
You may be attracted to claims management companies which advertise on prime time TV offering accident claim services on a no win no fee basis. Do think carefully before using such a company because they are not actually lawyers, rather they collect details of claims and sell them on to the highest bidder amongst many law firms. This removes any say you had in who handles your case. You could be given a solicitor with little experience. If cost is an issue, remember that many law firms who you contact directly rather than through an accident claim management company will offer services on a no win no fee basis. Also, in the case of an accident at work, your trade union can often help with your legal fees.
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