If you have suffered a serious head injury in a road traffic accident, you may be eligible for head injury compensation. These claims can provide financial relief for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages caused by the accident, including compensation for brain injuries.
Having a clear understanding of your legal rights and the claims process can help you secure the compensation you deserve. To ensure you feel prepared, we’ve addressed some frequently asked questions.
What Are the Most Common Types of Car Crashes?
Road traffic accidents occur in many ways, and some are more likely to result in serious head injuries. Notable types include:
- Rear-End Crashes: These occur when one vehicle hits the back of another. They can cause catastrophic head injuries, particularly if the head strikes the steering wheel or headrest.
- Side-Impact Collisions: When a vehicle is struck on its side. Passengers closest to the impact point are especially vulnerable to severe head trauma.
- Head-On Crashes: These are among the most devastating types of road traffic accidents and often result in significant injuries, including traumatic brain injuries (TBIs).
- Pedestrian and Cyclist Accidents: When a motorist collides with a pedestrian or cyclist, the victim’s head is often unprotected, which significantly raises the risk of severe injuries.
If you’ve been injured in any of these types of accidents, our solicitors in Rochdale and Greater Manchester can provide the guidance and support you need.
What Are Some Serious Head Injuries Associated With Car Accidents?
Head injuries from road traffic accidents can have life-altering consequences. Some of the most serious types include:
- Skull Fractures: These occur when the skull bone breaks due to considerable impact. Severe fractures may lead to complications such as brain damage, infection, or bleeding.
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): These injuries involve consequential damage to the brain, often leading to long-term impairments in cognitive, emotional, or physical functioning.
- Brain Haemorrhages: Uncontrolled bleeding within the brain caused by blunt force trauma can result in pressure buildup, requiring emergency medical intervention.
- Diffuse Axonal Injuries: This serious condition occurs when the brain’s nerve fibres are torn due to rapid acceleration or deceleration, leading to widespread brain damage and often resulting in a coma or long-term disability.
How Do You Start a Head Injury Compensation Claim?
Filing a compensation claim after a head injury involves several key steps that include:
- Seeking Medical Attention: Ensure that your injuries are properly documented. Medical records will serve as critical evidence in your claim.
- Gathering Evidence: Collect evidence from the road traffic accident scene, including photos, witness statements, and police reports.
- Consulting a Personal Injury Solicitor: The experienced team at ASL can guide you through the claims process, helping to ensure you meet all legal requirements.
- Filing the Claim: We will submit the necessary documents to start the claims process. We can negotiate with insurers or take the case to court if necessary.
What Factors Affect the Amount of Compensation You Can Receive?
The amount of compensation you may receive depends on several factors, including:
- Severity of the Injury: More serious injuries, such as TBIs, typically result in higher compensation due to the long-term impact on your life.
- Medical Expenses: Compensation often includes the cost of past and future medical treatment.
- Lost Wages: If your injury prevents you from working, you may claim for lost income and diminished earning capacity.
- Pain and Suffering: This includes compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life.
ASL Solicitors are here to help evaluate your losses and ensure the best possible outcome for your compensation claim.
What Are the Time Limits for Filing a Claim?
In the UK, personal injury claims must typically be filed within three years of the road traffic accident. Exceptions may apply if the injured party was a child or lacked the mental capacity to file a claim. Contacting us as soon as possible ensures you meet these deadlines.
Why Choose ASL Solicitors for Your Head Injury Compensation Claim?
Pursuing head injury compensation claims can be complex, particularly if liability is disputed or the injuries are severe. Our dedicated personal injury solicitors can:
- Evaluate Your Case: Determine the strength of your claim and estimate the compensation you may be entitled to.
- Handle Legal Procedures: Manage paperwork, negotiations, and court proceedings, giving you the time and space to prioritise your recovery.
- Advocate for You: Negotiate with insurers to secure a fair settlement or represent you in court if necessary.
Start Your Claim and Pursue Justice
If you’ve experienced a serious head injury in a road traffic accident, filing a head injury compensation claim can help you access the financial support you need to recover and move forward. Contact our experienced personal injury solicitors in Rochdale and Greater Manchester today to discuss your case and protect your rights.