Injury claims
Personal Injury Claims
If you have been injured because someone else did not take reasonable care, you may be entitled to compensation. We explain how claims work, what they can cover and what to do first.
What is a personal injury claim?
A personal injury claim is a request for compensation from the person or organisation responsible for an injury. In most cases the claim is dealt with by their insurer rather than by the individual personally.
To succeed, it usually needs to be shown that the other party owed you a duty of care, that they fell below the standard of care expected of them, and that this caused your injury or made it worse. The amount of any compensation depends on the evidence, including medical evidence about your injury and records of your financial losses.
Compensation is usually made up of two parts. General damages reflect the pain, suffering and impact of the injury itself. Special damages cover financial losses and expenses, such as lost earnings, travel costs, care provided by family members and treatment.
Common situations
- Injuries from road traffic accidents, as a driver, passenger, cyclist or pedestrian
- Accidents at work, including manual handling, falls from height and faulty equipment
- Slips, trips and falls in shops, public places or on poorly maintained pavements
- Injuries caused by medical treatment that fell below an acceptable standard
- Injuries on someone else’s premises or caused by a member of the public
- Serious injuries that will have a long-term effect on work, independence or family life
Your options and next steps
The first step is to understand whether there is a realistic claim. That means looking at how the accident happened, who may be responsible, and what evidence is available. It also means checking the time limit for bringing a claim.
Most personal injury claims in England and Wales follow a pre-action protocol: a set of steps that encourage the parties to exchange information and try to settle before court proceedings are issued. Many claims are resolved at this stage.
Some lower-value road traffic claims involving adults are handled through the Official Injury Claim service under rules introduced in 2021. Other claims follow different procedures depending on their value and complexity.
If a claim cannot be settled, court proceedings may be needed. Only a small proportion of claims reach a final hearing, but preparing properly from the outset keeps that option open.
Documents and evidence that may help
You do not need to have everything before you contact us, but the following can help us understand your situation more quickly:
- Photographs of the scene and of your injuries
- Names and contact details of any witnesses
- Accident report or reference numbers (for example from an employer, shop or the police)
- GP and hospital details, and a note of the treatment you have had
- Payslips or other evidence of lost earnings
- Receipts for expenses such as travel, prescriptions and equipment
- A short diary of your symptoms and how the injury affects daily life
How we assess your enquiry
- Tell us what happened. Use the enquiry form, call or email with a short summary.
- We review the details. We may ask a few questions or request key documents.
- We explain your options. Including whether your matter is one we can help with.
- You decide. Nothing goes further until you have agreed the scope of any work and any fees, confirmed in writing.
Frequently asked questions
How long do I have to make a personal injury claim?
In most cases you have three years from the date of the accident, or from the date you first knew your injury was linked to someone’s negligence. For children, the three years usually starts on their 18th birthday. Different rules can apply in some situations, so it is best to seek advice early.
Do I have to go to court?
Most personal injury claims settle without a court hearing. Court proceedings may be needed if the other side denies responsibility or the parties cannot agree on the value of the claim.
Will I need a medical examination?
Usually, yes. An independent medical report is normally required to confirm the nature of your injury and your likely recovery. This is a standard part of the process.
Are “no win, no fee” arrangements available?
Some claims may be suitable for a conditional fee agreement, often called “no win, no fee”. Whether one is available depends on the individual claim. We will explain the funding options that may apply to you, and any costs, before you decide whether to proceed.
Please note: this page gives general information based on the law of England and Wales. Different rules can apply in Scotland and Northern Ireland. It is not legal advice and should not be relied on for your particular situation. Every matter depends on its own facts, and no outcome or level of compensation can be guaranteed.
Free initial consultation
Tell us briefly what has happened and we will explain your possible next steps.
Time limits apply
Most personal injury claims must be started within three years. Getting advice early also makes it easier to gather evidence while it is still available.
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Talk to us about your situation
A free initial consultation gives you the chance to explain what has happened and understand your options, with no obligation to go further.
