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Road traffic accident claims explained

Road traffic accidents are very common across the UK, and can range from minor scrapes to serious, life-changing crashes. Not only can they damage vehicles, but they can also often cause injuries. Fortunately, it is possible for people who have been involved in vehicle crashes to pursue road traffic accident claims and get compensated for their injuries.

Types of road traffic accidents

There are many different types of road traffic accidents, including:

  • Motorcycle accidents
  • Bicycle accidents
  • Pedestrian accidents
  • Bus accidents

Of course, the injuries and damage caused differs depending on the type of accident. For example, a pedestrian accident might result in much more severe injuries than a bus accident simply due to the mode of transport. However, the severity of vehicle damage and the injuries suffered will always depend on the events of the accident itself.

Types of injuries

Again, the types of injuries that can be suffered as a result of road traffic accidents depend on the accident itself. However, there are several injuries which are the most common, and these include:

  • Fractures
  • Broken bones
  • Soft tissue injuries like sprains and strains
  • Whiplash

Whiplash claims are very common in the UK, but it is actually a more serious injury than people tend to think. Whiplash can cause temporary pain, but it can also become a long-lasting condition that can be very painful and debilitating.

Unfortunately, in more serious accident’s injuries tend to be more severe. For example, people can suffer from sensory loss, organ damage, and brain, head or spinal injuries. In very serious cases these injuries may lead to the sufferer passing away.

In most situations, after suffering an injury because of a road traffic accident, you can make a personal injury claim. Although making a claim may seem futile because the damage is already done, compensation can help you through recovery without having to worry about your finances, if you have to take time off work, for example.

The process of a claim

Road traffic accident claims usually have a specific pattern that they follow. Firstly, you will have to contact a solicitor who specialises road traffic accident claims. They will give you a consultation to start off with, to find out as much as possible about the incident and determine whether they can take your case on. Usually this consultation is free.

Next, your solicitor will have to gather information and evidence, including photos of vehicles, medical reports and witness statements. Whilst this part of your case is being formed, an idea of your compensation amount with start to be calculated. Depending on the way your case develops and whether the person you are making the claim against accepts liability, you will either settle out or in court. Settling out of court is the much more favourable option because it means your claims process is shorter and less stressful, but in some cases the only choice is to go to court.

How compensation is calculated

Compensation is calculated carefully and according to rules set by the court. The following factors will be taken into consideration when calculating the amount, you should receive:

  • How much physical pain you are in, and how much psychological upset you have suffered in addition to physical injury
  • Whether your injuries prevent you from working, and if you have or will lose out on wages because of this
  • Any medical and travel costs you have had to pay as a result of the accident, which you wouldn’t have otherwise
  • Whether you need access equipment or home modifications fitted, such as a stairlift

As you can tell, compensation is not awarded haphazardly, but rather is carefully calculated to cover and recover costs you have been forced to pay out as a result of the accident.