If you have been injured in an accident that was not your fault, you may be entitled to compensation. The personal injury claims process in the UK is designed to put you back in the position you were in before the accident, covering medical treatment, lost earnings, and pain and suffering. This guide explains how the process works, what your claim could be worth, and how to choose the right solicitor.
What Counts as a Personal Injury Claim?
A personal injury claim can arise from any situation where someone else’s negligence caused you harm. Common examples include road traffic accidents, slips, trips, and falls in public places or at work, accidents at work due to inadequate safety measures, medical negligence, and injuries caused by defective products. You generally have three years from the date of the accident (or the date you became aware of the injury) to start legal proceedings.
The Claims Process
Your solicitor will begin by gathering evidence: medical records, accident reports, witness statements, and photographs. They will then send a Letter of Claim to the responsible party (the defendant), who has a set period to respond. If liability is accepted, the claim moves to valuation and settlement negotiations. Most personal injury claims settle without going to court. If liability is disputed, the case may proceed to trial.
How Much Compensation Could You Receive?
Compensation is divided into general damages (for pain, suffering, and loss of amenity) and special damages (for financial losses such as lost earnings, medical expenses, travel costs, and care costs). Minor injuries such as whiplash typically attract £500–£5,000. More serious injuries can result in six- or seven-figure settlements. The Judicial College Guidelines provide indicative ranges for different types of injury.
No Win, No Fee Explained
Most personal injury solicitors work on a Conditional Fee Agreement (CFA), commonly known as no win, no fee. This means you do not pay legal fees upfront. If the claim is successful, the solicitor takes a success fee (capped at 25% of your compensation). If the claim fails, you do not pay the solicitor’s fees, though you should ensure that After the Event (ATE) insurance is in place to cover the defendant’s costs.
Key Takeaways
- You have three years from the date of injury to start personal injury proceedings.
- Most claims settle without going to court through negotiation.
- No win, no fee agreements cap the solicitor’s success fee at 25% of your compensation.
- Compensation covers both physical suffering and financial losses.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a personal injury claim take?
Simple claims can settle in 6–12 months. Complex cases involving serious injury may take 2–3 years.
Do I need a solicitor?
While not legally required, a specialist solicitor significantly increases your chances of a fair settlement and handles all negotiations.
Will I have to go to court?
The vast majority of claims settle before reaching court. Your solicitor will prepare you if a court hearing becomes necessary.
Written by
Michael Stevens
LLB, Personal Injury Solicitor
This guide has been written and fact-checked by a qualified professional to ensure accuracy. All information is regularly reviewed and updated. Wisehande editorial standards require expert authorship and peer review for every guide we publish.
