If you have been involved in a car accident that was not your fault then you could be entitled to personal-injury compensation. This compensation is normally paid out by the insurance company of the guilty party and if they do not have insurance cover then it is paid out by a government body. This body is known as the Motor Insurers’ Bureau, and was set up specifically to compensate victims of uninsured drivers. However, remember when claiming any compensation that if you are at fault in some way for your own injuries, for example not wearing a seat belt, then you may lose some of your compensation entitlement through contributory negligence. Contributory negligence can make your claim complicated; it is important to speak to an experienced personal injury lawyer about your potential culpability.

You car accident claim could be as a result of whiplash, head and back injuries, broken bones or any other type of injury resulting from the accident. This is because road users have a duty of care towards each other to drive reasonably and make reasonable efforts to ensure the safety of each other. The bonus of personal injury and car accident claims is that in most cases they should cost the victim nothing as most solicitors will work on a no-win, no-fee basis and the legal costs will be paid by the insurance company. Remember that if you are a passenger you have just as much right to make a claim as the driver.

If you need to make a car accident claim then you should speak to a personal-injury solicitor as soon as possible. This is because you only have three years in which to make your claim. Known as the limitation period, if you exceed this you will be barred by statute from making a claim, except in exceptional circumstances. This is extended until the age of 21 for a child, but it is always best to bring proceedings as soon as possible while the events are fresh in your mind and the evidence is there to be seen.

Last Updated on 29/08/2011