This week is the UK’s ‘Road Safety Awareness Week’ which is a national campaign run by the road safety charity Brake. The theme of this year’s campaign is After the Crash – Every Road Victim Counts.
More than 1,700 people die on UK roads yearly, in addition, 30,000 experience extreme and life changing injuries. Brake have highlighted how shocking the statistics are and how there has been no significant decrease for more than ten years.
The consequences of road traffic accidents can be serious and can involve motor vehicles, motorbikes, bicycles, or pedestrians. Every time we drive faster than the speed limit, or too fast for the road conditions, we increase the risk of a crash and the chance of a loved one being killed or injured on a road. Brake is calling on the Government to provide funding and care for the victims and their families.
You can find out more about Brake and this year’s campaign on their website.
Road traffic accident claims
Anyone who is injured in a road traffic accident that wasn’t their fault, or those who are bereaved following the death of a loved one, have a legal right to claim compensation.
Claimants will typically seek compensation for:
- Physical injuries;
- Psychological trauma;
- Medical expenses;
- Loss of income;
- Rehabilitation costs;
- Vehicle damage; and
- Other related losses due to the accident.
These claims typically involve situations where a person is injured due to the negligence of another driver, pedestrian, cyclist, or entity responsible for road maintenance or vehicle safety.
The success of a claim often depends on establishing fault or negligence. Evidence such as police reports, witness statements, photographs, and medical records may be crucial in proving liability.
There are time limits (statute of limitations) within which a claim must be filed. These time frames vary by jurisdiction, so it’s essential to act promptly to avoid losing the right to claim.
Seeking advice and representation from a qualified personal injury lawyer or solicitor experienced in handling road traffic accident claims can greatly assist in navigating the legal process and maximising the chances of a successful claim.
How can Nelsons help
Hannah Manewell is an Associate in our Personal Injury team, which is ranked in Tier One by the independently research publication, The Legal 500.
Hannah specialises in a wide range of personal injury matters, but with a focus on serious injury cases, including accidents at work, occupiers’ liability, and road traffic accidents.
If you find yourself in a situation where you or a family member have been injured on the roads, then contact our specialist team for advice. Please contact us via our online enquiry form or call 0800 024 1976 for a guaranteed response.
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