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Making a Claim

MyClaim’s guide to making a personal injury claim

Making a claim for a personal injury can be a daunting process. MyClaim has put together a list of Do’s and Don’ts to help you make the most of your claim:-

• Do keep a record of the accident details. Write down everything that might be relevant as soon as possible after the accident as it is easy to forget small details as time passes. It may also be useful to take photographs of the accident site, particularly if you tripped or slipped over.

• Don’t wait too long to speak to a solicitor. You must issue your claim at Court within three years of the accident so make a careful note of the date. Your solicitor will need time to investigate the claim before issuing proceedings and so it is important that you speak to a solicitor as soon as possible.

• Don’t suffer in silence. If you have ongoing injuries, see your GP and keep them updated as they may be able to refer you for treatment to help your recovery. Your medical records will be used as evidence of your injury and so it is important that they accurately reflect your symptoms.

• Do try and minimise your losses. Your opponent will only be liable for your reasonable losses and so it is important that you try and keep them to a minimum. For example, you are unlikely to recover loss of earnings once your doctor has said you are medically fit to return to work.

• Don’t withhold any information from your solicitor, even if you think the information may harm your claim. Your solicitor must have all the facts before making a claim on your behalf.

• Do keep a record of all your expenses and losses. You will need to itemise your losses and expenses and produce evidence of them. Keep all your receipts or any other records you may have. If you have to make additional journeys as a result of your accident, such as to the doctors, keep a note of the date and distance travelled. If you need help from friends and family during your recovery, for example doing your shopping or helping you with housework, keep a record of the time they spend helping as you may be able to claim for it.

• Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Making a personal injury claim can be complicated process so don’t be shy of asking your solicitor to explain things to you. It is important that you understand how your claim is progressing.

• Do respond promptly to correspondence from your solicitor. To avoid any additional delays, make sure you respond quickly to any letters you receive from your solicitor as they may be unable to progress your claim until they hear from you. That said, make sure you read everything carefully and speak to your solicitor if you have any queries or concerns.

• Don’t worry! MyClaim solicitors have a great deal of experience dealing with personal injury claims just like yours. They will be there to help you every step of the way. Please call us today on 0800 731 2586 for free expert legal advice. We will help you get your life back on track.

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