Being injured in any sort of accident as the result of another person’s negligence is frustrating and distressing and the consequences can be far reaching. There is the obvious physical pain, but the trauma can be longer lasting, as can the treatment, care and inability to work resulting in financial problems. These are some of the reasons for which people choose to make an accident claim after their injury. But the process of doing so is shrouded in secrecy and few people are fully aware of what to do.

The very first step to take must be to ensure that your injuries are properly treated. Not only is this important to your physical and mental recovery but it will also help your accident claim to ensure that your doctor has recorded the details of any injuries.
If your injury takes place at work it is important the health and safety officer is notified and that the accident is logged in the company’s accident book. You should also report the injury to your trade union, if appropriate, as they may be able to support you in your accident claim and recovery.

In the weeks after an accident there are many expenses so if you decide to make an accident claim, keep receipts for expenses such as taxis to hospital appointments, medication, care or early private treatment such as physiotherapy because you may be able to claim them back later.

In some cases the evidence required to make an accident claim can disappear, jeopardising your claim, so it is important to contact your solicitor as soon as you decide to make a claim. This is particularly important in cases of slip and trip accidents caused by poorly maintained pavements because once the pavement is repaired your evidence is lost.

You might see adverts on television for accident claim management companies who offer to handle your claim on a no win no fee basis. But please think carefully before accepting the offer because the personnel in such companies are not solicitors, rather the companies auction details of claims to high bidding law firms as though they were a mere commodity. This removes any say you had in who handles your case. You could be given a solicitor with little experience. If cost is an issue, remember that many law firms who you contact directly rather than through an accident claim management company will offer services on a no win no fee basis. Furthermore, if your injury happens at work, there is a possibility your trade union can help with costs.

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