Unfortunately, a great number of people are injured on Scottish roads each year. The most recent statistics have shown that in 2013 there were 183,670 road traffic accidents reported to the police. There were 21,657 people seriously injured and 1,713 road deaths. Although road casualty numbers have fallen over time through things such as seat belt legislation and improved car safety, the roads remain dangerous.
A road accident can have catastrophic consequences for those involved. In the most severe cases, a car crash can lead to fatalities and lifelong disabilities such as quadriplegia. There can be bone breakages and back problems. Even one of the most common road accident injuries, whiplash, can cause extreme pain and lead to a lengthy period being taken off of work.
How Do I Make a Claim for a Car Accident?
Strict time limits apply to making a claim so you must make your claim within three years of the accident occurring. You must be able to prove that your received your injuries as a result of another person’s negligence. This could be a driver who failed to meet the appropriate level of care on the roads. You must be able to connect the other person’s negligence to your injuries.
If you have been injured in a car accident, you should seek medical attention for your injuries. This makes sure that you have received the appropriate care for your injury and that the details have been noted on your medical records. Medical evidence is paramount when making a claim so you should make sure that you provide as full and detailed an account as possible. Some symptoms such as headaches or dizziness can seem minor at the time but may signal a much more serious injury so you should ensure every symptom is reported.
How Much Compensation Can I Claim?
The level of compensation that you can claim for a car accident depends on several factors. The injuries that you received are the primary factor. Generally, the more severe the injury, the higher the level of compensation will be awarded. The compensation award would take into consideration matters such as the level of pain connected with the injury and the effect the injury has had upon everyday social and working life. It may also be possible to claim for the psychological impact of the injury. The compensation will depend on the exact circumstances of the case, so it is best to consult with an experienced personal injury lawyer.
About Author:
Molly McGrady is a legal writer for Road Traffic Injury Lawyers in Scotland that can provide more information about car accident claims.