Tuesday 24 January 2012

Accident Compensation Claims Guide



Following an accident, there is a lot to think about. You may have to get used to sudden lifestyle changes, and the recovery period can be long and demanding. For many people, legal action against those responsible is the last thing on their mind.

However, making an accident compensation claim is often a very necessary and beneficial way to deal with the issues which arise following a serious injury, such as financial losses due to time off work. Read on to find out if you might be able to make an accident compensation claim.

Not everyone is eligible to make a claim for compensation. If you want to know whether you can make an accident injury claim, take a look through this list of questions:

1. Did your accident happen in the last three years? The answer needs to be 'yes' to make you eligible for an accident claim. This rule does not apply, though, to claims for illnesses such as asbestosis or work-induced cancers.

2. Was the accident someone else's fault? As you make expect, the answer needs to be at least partly 'yes', if you want to make an accident compensation claim.

3. Did your accident happen in the UK? If not, you could still make an accident compensation claim, but different rules may apply, such as the time limit allowed following the accident for making a claim. The best thing to do is gain free legal advice from a reputable claims management company to find out if you can still make an accident claim.

Many people who are eligible to make an accident claim fear doing so for a variety of reasons. If you think you might be entitled to compensation but are still are concerned about making an accident claim, read on to see if we can allay your fears.

1. Do I need to have money to make an accident compensation claim? The answer to this question is almost certainly 'no'. In the UK, we have a system of 'no win no fee' accident claims, which means that if you don't win your case, you do not have to pay. If your case is won, any solicitor's fees and expenses will usually be recovered from the other side as well, meaning that you pay nothing.

2. Do I need to understand legal issues to make an accident compensation claim? Again, the answer to this question is 'no'. Your accident claim solicitor will be able to guide you through the process and complete any complex paperwork on your behalf.

3. If I make a work accident claim, am I in danger of being dismissed? It is categorically unlawful to dismiss an employee because they have made an accident compensation claim. Plus, all employers are required to have insurance against accident claims, meaning that it will be the insurance company which pays your compensation.