Have you been involved in an accident through no fault of your own? This happens to thousands of people every year in the UK, with many left unable to go to work or carry on their life as they did before. Regardless of whether an accident ultimately prevents you from working or not, depending on the circumstances surrounding the accident, you may be able to make a compensation claim for lost earnings, your pain and suffering or other losses. This is known as a personal injury clam and in simple terms refers to an accident which occurs when a third party is responsible for the harm suffered, whether through failure to take reasonable preventative steps or by negligence in some other way.

Accidents can occur in many places; at work, on the road or in a public space. An accident at work may have been the result of incorrect training or faulty equipment. Employers have a duty of care for employees and are responsible for activities carried out in the workplace.

Road traffic accidents are unfortunately fairly common with around a quarter of a million recorded each year in the UK. If you have been involved in a road traffic accident, whether as a driver, passenger or pedestrian you may be entitled to claim for your injuries.

If your accident occurred in a public place, for example if you tripped on an uneven paving stone, this qualifies as public negligence and compensation may be due. Medical negligence is another common reason for compensation. Unfortunately some people experience medical or clinical negligence and its important individuals receive the compensation they deserve as well as helping to work towards preventing future reoccurrences. Other circumstances for compensation include injuries or illness related to a holiday or travelling abroad or even injury/illness caused by a product you have purchased.

Making a claim for compensation is channeled through a personal injury lawyer but a few stipulations exist. Firstly, there is a limitation period for claims to be made within; in general you must file for compensation within three years of the accident date. If the claimant is under the age of 18, this three-year period starts when the claimant reaches the age of 18. There are other odd exceptions, for example in aviation the period is limited to 2 years.

Secondly, there are two elements to compensation awards made in personal injury claims. The first is called general damage and covers the pain and suffering you may have experienced along with any loss of amenity, for example not being able to take your children to school.

The second element is called special damages and aims to put you back in a financial position akin to if the accident had never occurred. This may include an amount for loss of earnings and costs of any required treatments, therefore it is vital to keep any related receipts so full amounts can be reclaimed.

The best place to start if you’re thinking of making a personal injury claim is by contacting a no win no fee solicitor and enlisting the help of a professional. If you have a case for compensation you can then begin the claim process and ascertain how much compensation you may be entitled to.

Isla Campbell writes on a number of topics on behalf of a digital marketing agency and a variety of clients. As such, this article is to be considered a professional piece with business interests in mind.