Frequently asked questions
- How long after my accident can I still claim?
- Is there an age-limit for claiming compensation?
- Can I claim if I haven’t been to the doctors?
- Can I claim after I have recovered from my injuries?
- Can I claim if the accident happened outside the UK?
- Can I claim if I don’t live in the UK?
1. How long after my accident can I still claim?
Every accident has a limitation period. This is the length of time allowed for you to start your claim before it expires. For most accidents, you will have 3 years after the accident to claim. If it happened in air or at sea, then you have 2 years to claim.
For industrial disease claims, you have 3 years from when you realise that your symptoms are caused by a work-related illness, or when it is discovered by a medical expert.
For medical negligence claims, you have 3 years from when you realise that your symptoms may have been caused by negligence in the medical profession.
For children accident claims, a parent or legal guardian can represent and claim on behalf of the child until they turn 18 years old. Otherwise the 3 year limitation period starts after the child turns 18 years old.
If you are worried about whether you can still make a claim or not, give us a call and speak to one of our claim advisors. Our first line call handlers are highly experienced and can advise you more appropriately according to your case.
2. Is there an age-limit for claiming compensation?
People of all ages can claim compensation. The only limitation is that the UK law prevents anyone under the age of 18 years from filing their own personal injury claim. Instead, a parent or legal guardian can represent the child and file a compensation claim on behalf of the child.
3. Can I claim if I haven’t been to the doctors?
You can start a claim even if you haven’t seen a doctor after the accident. It is, however, advised that you do see a medical expert even if there are no visible signs of injury. A medical expert can locate any hidden injuries caused by the accident; they can treat your injuries and advise you with your recovery; and most importantly for your claim, they can officially document your medical assessment and attendance.
4. Can I claim after I have recovered from my injuries?
You are welcome to claim after making a full recovery, as long as your claim is made within the time permitted for your accident (known as the limitation period).
5. Can I claim if the accident happened outside the UK?
Yes. We can help you with your personal injury claim if you have had an accident abroad. Common accidents abroad include food poisoning, road traffic accidents, slip and trip accidents, holiday illness and more.
6. Can I claim if I don’t live in the UK?
Yes. We can help you if you have had an accident in England but you live abroad. It should be noted that if your case goes to court, then you will be expected to attend your hearing in England or Wales.
This is a disclaimer to say we do not accept liability for any inaccurate or out-of-date information contained on this website at any given time. Whilst we do make every effort to keep the information accurate and up-to-date, you should only treat this information as a guideline. For more information relevant to your claim, you should speak directly to your solicitor.