Being involved in a car accident in Northern Ireland can be a frightening ordeal, leaving you physically shaken and unsure of how to proceed. If you find yourself in this situation anywhere from Belfast to Enniskillen, understanding the car accident claim process is crucial to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. This helpful guide will take you through the main steps, from the immediate aftermath of a car accident to getting a final settlement.
1) Immediate actions after your accident
Prioritise Safety and Medical Attention: First things first, take a deep breath. Check yourself and everyone on board for injuries. If it’s serious, call for an ambulance right away. Remember, even seemingly minor bumps can turn into bigger issues later. It’s highly recommended to get checked by a doctor – it’s better to be safe than sorry!
Gathering evidence: Now, let’s gather some important intel. While safety is priority one, try to collect as much information as possible:
- Gather driver details: After an accident, you should take the other driver’s name, address, phone number, insurance details, and any other relevant details.
- Gather witness information: If anyone saw the accident, grab their contact information as well.
- Take photos: Take pictures of the accident scene, if there is any damage to the vehicles, as well as if there are any visible injuries.
- Note as much information as possible: Try to note any other relevant details including weather, road conditions, and anything else you think might be important.
If you have any questions about this or anything else at this early stage, please feel free to reach out to our solicitors.
2) Making a Car Accident Claim
Contact a Personal Injury Solicitor: Reaching out to a qualified personal injury solicitor in Northern Ireland specialising in car accident claims is highly advisable. Solicitors offer expert advice throughout the whole process. They are important because they will help you understand your rights, gather the evidence to support your claim and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf.
Establishing Liability: To make a successful claim, you need to start your claim within 3 years of the accident and prove the other party was at fault for the accident. Your solicitor will help gather evidence to establish liability, which might include police reports and witness statements.
Medical Examination: You will likely undergo a medical examination by a doctor chosen by your solicitor to assess the extent of your injuries. This medical report is fundamental in determining the amount of compensation you may receive.
Filing the Claim: Your solicitor will file the claim on your behalf, detailing the accident, the injuries you sustained, and the financial losses incurred. This can include:
- Pain and Suffering: Acknowledging the physical and emotional stress caused by the accident.
- Lost Income: Compensation for wages lost due to recovery time.
- Medical Expenses: Covering both current and future medical needs.
3) Negotiation and Settlement
Negotiating with Insurance Companies: Insurance companies typically try to settle claims as quickly as possible and for as little money as possible. This is always to their benefit. Your solicitor will negotiate with them to make sure you receive a fair settlement that reflects the true nature of your injuries. This process might involve several rounds of negotiation before an agreement is reached.
Settlement or Court: Most car accident claims in Northern Ireland are settled out of court. However, if a settlement can’t be reached, our solicitors will be able to advise you and represent you in court. Our expert solicitors will guide you every step of the way. Trust us. We’ll ensure you have the information you need and strong representation, regardless of whether your case settles or goes to trial.
Get in touch with the best car accident solicitors in Northern Ireland
In the aftermath of a car accident in Northern Ireland, you might feel overwhelmed and unsure of your next steps. But remember, you don’t have to navigate this alone. Seeking legal guidance from an expert car accident solicitor can make a significant difference for you and your family.
Paschal O’Hare Personal Injury Solicitors has over 55 years of experience helping people in Belfast and across Northern Ireland recover compensation for car accident injuries. We understand the harrowing challenges you are facing. Our experts are committed to providing the legal expertise you need to get the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation and let our experienced solicitors help you through this difficult time.
