Facial Injury Accident Claims

Suffering a facial injury deeply distresses you, impacting your physical well-being, emotional state, and daily life. Sherwin O’Riordan Solicitors understand the complexities involved in these cases and dedicate themselves to helping you secure the compensation you deserve. Our experienced team provides compassionate and expert legal guidance throughout the entire claims process, ensuring you protect your rights and voice.

How Do I Make a Claim for a Facial Injury Accident?

To make a claim for a facial injury accident, follow these key steps. First, seek immediate medical attention for your injuries. This action ensures your health and recovery while creating an official record of your injuries, which is vital for your claim.

After receiving medical treatment, contact a solicitor specializing in personal injury claims, such as Sherwin O’Riordan Solicitors. We will assess the details of your accident, determine if you have a valid claim, and guide you through the necessary legal procedures. This process typically involves gathering evidence, identifying the responsible party, and initiating communication with their insurance company.

What to Do if I Have Suffered a Facial Injury

If an accident has caused your facial injury, taking the right steps immediately after the incident can significantly strengthen your potential claim.

1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Your health is paramount. Even if you believe your injuries are minor, a medical professional can diagnose hidden issues and document the extent of your injuries. This medical record becomes crucial evidence.

2. Report the Accident: Depending on the nature of the accident, report it to the appropriate authorities (e.g., Gardaí for road traffic accidents, your employer for workplace incidents, or the property owner for slip and falls). Obtain a copy of any official report.

3. Document Everything:

   • Photographs: Take clear photographs of your injuries from various angles, the accident scene, and any contributing factors (e.g., hazards, damaged vehicles).
   • Witness Information: Collect names and contact details of anyone who witnessed the accident.
   • Keep Records: Maintain all medical records, receipts for prescriptions, travel expenses related to treatment, and any other financial losses incurred due to the injury.

4. Avoid Discussing Fault: Do not admit fault or discuss the details of the accident with anyone other than your medical professionals or your solicitor.

5. Contact a Solicitor: As soon as possible, contact Sherwin O’Riordan Solicitors. We can advise you on your rights and the best course of action.

Time Limits – Statute of Limitations

Strict time limits, known as the Statute of Limitations, apply to making a personal injury claim in Ireland. Generally, you have two years from the date of the accident or from when you first became aware of the injury to initiate legal proceedings. “Date of knowledge” refers to when you first realized, or should reasonably have realized, that you suffered an injury attributable to another party’s negligence. For minors (individuals under 18 years old), the two-year time limit begins on their 18th birthday. This means a parent or guardian can bring a claim on their behalf at any time before their 18th birthday, or the individual can pursue the claim themselves within two years of turning 18. It is crucial to seek legal advice promptly to ensure you file your claim within these timeframes; otherwise, you risk having your claim time-barred, which means losing your right to pursue compensation.

What Are Causes of Facial Injury Accidents?

Facial injuries can arise from a wide range of accidents, often due to the negligence or carelessness of another party. Common causes include:

• Road Traffic Accidents: Collisions involving cars, motorcycles, bicycles, or pedestrians can lead to severe facial trauma, including fractures, lacerations, and dental injuries, often from impact with dashboards, steering wheels, or the ground.
• Slips, Trips, and Falls: Uneven surfaces, wet floors, poor lighting, or obstructions in public or private spaces can cause individuals to fall and sustain facial injuries upon impact with the ground or other objects.
• Workplace Accidents: Industries such as construction, manufacturing, or those involving heavy machinery can pose risks of facial injuries from falling objects, machinery malfunctions, or inadequate safety equipment.
• Assaults and Attacks: Intentional acts of violence can result in significant facial injuries, including broken noses, jaw fractures, and eye damage.
• Sports Accidents: While some sports injuries are inherent risks, facial injuries can occur due to inadequate safety measures, faulty equipment, or negligent actions of other participants or organizers.
• Defective Products: Malfunctioning or poorly designed products, such as tools, household appliances, or even children’s toys, can cause unexpected facial injuries.

The Claims* Process for a Facial Injury

The claims process for a facial injury typically follows these stages:

1. Initial Consultation: You will meet with our solicitors to discuss the details of your accident, the extent of your injuries, and the impact on your life. We will assess the viability of your claim.
2. Gathering Evidence: We will assist you in collecting all necessary evidence, including medical reports, Garda reports, witness statements, photographs, and financial records of losses incurred.
3. Notification to the Responsible Party: We will formally notify the party responsible for your injuries (or their insurance company) of your intention to make a claim.
4. Application to the Injuries Resolution Board (IRB): In Ireland, most personal injury claims must first be submitted to the IRB for assessment, unless certain exceptions apply (e.g., medical negligence claims). The IRB attempts to resolve claims through mediation and assessment without the need for court proceedings.
5. IRB Assessment: The IRB will review all submitted evidence and propose an assessment of compensation. Both parties can accept or reject this assessment.
6. Negotiation and Settlement: If the IRB assessment is rejected by either party, or if the case falls outside IRB’s remit, we will enter into direct negotiations with the responsible party’s insurers to try and reach a fair settlement.
7. Court Proceedings (if necessary): If a satisfactory settlement cannot be reached through negotiation, we will initiate court proceedings. Our team will represent you vigorously in court, presenting your case and advocating for your best interests.
8. Compensation Payout: Once a settlement is agreed upon or a court judgment is made, you will receive your compensation.

Compensation Payouts

Compensation for facial injury claims aims to cover both general damages and special damages. The amount awarded will depend on the severity of the injury, its long-term impact, and the specific circumstances of the accident.

• General Damages: These compensate you for the pain and suffering caused by your injury, including physical pain, emotional distress, disfigurement, loss of amenity, and psychological impact. For example, a minor facial injury with full recovery might result in a lower award, while severe disfigurement, permanent scarring, or significant dental damage could lead to substantial compensation.

• Special Damages: These cover quantifiable financial losses incurred as a direct result of your injury. This can include:
  • Medical Expenses: Cost of doctor visits, hospital stays, surgeries, medication, physiotherapy, and future medical care.
  • Loss of Earnings: Past and future loss of income due to inability to work or reduced earning capacity.
  • Travel Expenses: Costs associated with traveling to medical appointments.
  • Care Costs: Expenses for any care or assistance you require at home.
  • Damage to Property: Costs to repair or replace personal property damaged in the accident (e.g., glasses, dental work).

Our solicitors will meticulously calculate all your losses to ensure you receive the maximum compensation you are entitled to.  

How Sherwin O’Riordan LLP Can Help with your Facial Injury Claim*

Speak with a Solicitor Today – Call 01 663 2000

Contact us today through our online contact form.

Our Expertise in Personal Injury Law

Our personal injury solicitors specialize in cases involving Facial injuries. We understand the profound impact these injuries can have on individuals and their families. Therefore, we can assist you by:

Guiding You Through the Legal Process

First, we will guide you through the legal process. From gathering evidence to filing your claim, we will be with you every step of the way.

Ensuring Proper Documentation

Moreover, we emphasize the importance of proper documentation. Medical assessments play a crucial role in thoroughly documenting your injuries.

Negotiating for Fair Compensation

Additionally, we focus on negotiating for fair compensation. Our goal is to secure the best possible outcome for you, allowing you to concentrate on your recovery.

Contact Us for Assistance

If you have suffered a Facial injury due to someone else’s negligence, contact us today for a confidential consultation. We are here to help you navigate the legal complexities and ensure your story is heard.  

Sherwin O’ Riordan Solicitors, with their expertise in personal injury and medical negligence law, have experienced Solicitors to handle Facial injury accident claims, providing essential support and legal representation to those affected by negligence.

With Sherwin O’ Riordan, you’re never just a case number, you’re a person with a story, and we’re here to make sure it’s heard.  

* In contentious business a solicitor may not calculate fees or other charges as a percentage or proportion of any award or settlement.