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Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have a case?
To win a case you basically have to prove two things. First that you were injured as a result of an accident that was caused by someone else's negligence, or their breach of a duty owed to you by law, such as the Health and Safety at Work Laws. Second, you have to prove that the injuries you complain of are as a result of that accident, and not something else such as a pre-existing medical condition. But really, most cases are common sense. If it feels to you as if someone else was to blame for your accident, then there's a good chance they are! Also remember, you have to bring your claim within a certain period. This is usually 3 years from the date of the accident, but there are a number of exceptions to this rule so don't be put off making enquiries about a claim just because the accident was a few years ago, especially if you have only just realised that you might have a claim.
I would be very pleased to advise you if you think you have a claim. The place to start is to complete the on-line questionnaire here, and I'll get back to you very soon.
How much might my claim be worth?
Without wanting to be unhelpful, it's impossible to say without a proper medical assessment of your injuries. In the course of a claim a medical report is obtained from a doctor specialising in your type of injury, and it is with the help of such a report that the amount of your compensation is assessed. However, most people are quite surprised at how much they can get, even for relatively minor injuries. And in addition to compensation for the pain and suffering of your injury (which we call General Damages), don't forget that you can claim for out of pocket expenses (which we call Special Damages) such as loss of wages, medical costs, clothing and a whole list of things. And if you have been off work so long that your pension is affected, you can claim for that too.
Again, fill in the on-line questionnaire here, and there is a space for you to tell me about your injury. I will do the best I can to give you an idea of what your claim might be worth.
Will I have to go to Court?
No, not if the other side agree that they are liable to you and the amount of your compensation is also agreed. You will have to go to court if there is a dispute about who is liable for your accident, or if the amount of your compensation is not agreed. There is also a short court hearing where children or people who are not capable of making their own legal decisions are involved. But by far the majority of claims are settled out of court, so don't be afraid of making enquiries about a claim just for this reason!
How long will it take?
Accident claims vary enormously in the amount of time they take. It all depends on whether the other side agree they are liable to you, how serious your injuries are, and all sorts of things. However, the procedure is generally a lot quicker than it used to be. As a general guide, claims which are admitted and where the injury is not catastrophic can often be settled in a few months. And even claims which go to court don't take much longer than about 18 months these days. There are exceptions of course, where complicated law or very serious injuries are concerned, and there are still cases which can take several years. I will give you a better idea of how long your case will take when I know what it is about.
Will it really cost me nothing, win or lose?
With some lawyers and claims companies there is a risk you could end up paying something, but not with me. I make arrangements so that there is no risk of you having to pay anything. If you lose you pay nothing, if you win you keep all your compensation.
How does No Win No Fee really work?
Please read the page about No Win No Fee Agreements
Can I still use you as my solicitor, even though I live miles away?
Yes, it is usually no problem, given today's communication technology. Since you are reading this you probably have access to a computer and e-mail. You will probably have a telephone. I have successfully acted for clients who live as far away as the USA. Don't be put off if you live in another part of the country.
If you have any questions which are not covered here, or elsewhere in this website, please e-mail them to me here
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