Serious Injury Accident Claims*

Suffering a serious injury can be a life-altering event, impacting not only your physical health but also your emotional well-being, financial stability, and overall quality of life. Sherwin O’Riordan Solicitors understand the profound challenges you face and are dedicated to providing compassionate and expert legal representation to help you secure the compensation you deserve. Our team of experienced serious injury solicitors is committed to guiding you through every step of the claims process, ensuring your rights are protected and your future is secured.  

What are Serious Injury Accident Claims*?

Serious injury accident claims refer to legal actions taken to seek compensation for injuries that have a significant and lasting impact on an individual’s life. These injuries often require extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and may lead to long-term disability, loss of earnings, and a diminished quality of life. Unlike minor injuries, serious injuries typically involve complex medical evidence and a more intricate legal process to establish liability and quantify damages.  

Types of Serious Injury Accidents

What Types of Accidents are Considered Serious Injury?

A wide range of accidents can result in serious injuries. Some common types include:

• Road Traffic Accidents: Collisions involving cars, motorcycles, bicycles, or pedestrians that lead to severe injuries such as spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, or multiple fractures.
• Workplace Accidents: Accidents occurring in the workplace due to negligence, unsafe conditions, or faulty equipment, resulting in injuries like amputations, severe burns, or industrial diseases.
• Slips, Trips, and Falls: Accidents on public or private property due to hazards like wet floors, uneven surfaces, or poor lighting, leading to head injuries, hip fractures, or other debilitating injuries.
• Medical Negligence: Injuries sustained due to substandard medical care, misdiagnosis, or surgical errors.
• Product Liability: Injuries caused by defective or unsafe products.

What to do if I have suffered a Serious Injury

If you have suffered a serious injury, taking immediate and appropriate steps can significantly impact the success of your claim.

1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately: Your health is paramount. Ensure you receive prompt medical treatment for your injuries, even if they initially seem minor. This also creates a crucial medical record.
2. Report the Accident: Report the accident to the relevant authorities (e.g., Gardaí for road traffic accidents, employer for workplace accidents).
3. Gather Information: If possible and safe to do so, collect details at the scene, such as contact information of witnesses, photographs of the scene and your injuries, and any relevant documentation.
4. Keep Detailed Records: Maintain a meticulous record of all medical appointments, treatments, expenses incurred (medical bills, travel costs, lost wages), and any impact on your daily life.
5. Consult a Solicitor: Contact a Personal Injury solicitor at Sherwin O’Riordan as soon as possible. They can advise you on your rights, the claims process, and help preserve crucial evidence.

Time Limits

In Ireland, there are strict time limits for bringing personal injury claims, known as the Statute of Limitations. Generally, you have two years from the date of the accident or the date of knowledge of your injury to initiate legal proceedings. There are some exceptions, particularly for minors, where the two-year period begins when they turn 18. It is crucial to seek legal advice promptly to ensure your claim is not time-barred.  

The Claims* Process for a Serious Injury

The claims process for a serious injury typically involves the following stages:

1. Immediate Medical Attention: Prioritize your health by seeking prompt medical care. Not only is this crucial for your recovery, but it also serves as vital evidence of your injury for your claim.
2. Report the Incident: Depending on where the injury occurred, make sure to report it to the appropriate authorities. For workplace incidents, inform your employer; for traffic accidents, notify the Gardaí.
3. Document Everything: Gather comprehensive evidence, including photographs of the accident scene, witness testimonies, and medical records. This documentation forms the backbone of your claim.
4. Consult with a Solicitor: Engage with Sherwin O’ Riordan Solicitors to ensure expert handling of your claim. Our experienced team will provide personalized advice and manage the legal complexities on your behalf.
5. File with the Injuries Resolution Board (IRB): Most claims in Ireland are initially assessed by the IRB (formerly PIAB). We will assist you in submitting the necessary application and evidence, ensuring that your case is robustly presented.
6. Assessment by IRB: IRB will evaluate your claim and propose a compensation amount. This process includes an independent medical examination to corroborate your injuries.
7. Decision Time: Once the IRB provides an assessment, you have the choice to accept or reject the offer. Acceptance means the process concludes, whereas rejection may lead to court proceedings for further compensation.
8. Court Proceedings (if needed): If the IRB offer is unsatisfactory, we will prepare your case for court. Our solicitors will advocate on your behalf to secure the compensation you deserve.

Compensation Payouts

Compensation payouts for serious injury claims aim to cover various losses and damages incurred as a result of the injury. These can include:

• General Damages: Compensation for pain and suffering, loss of amenity, and psychological trauma. The amount awarded depends on the severity and long-term impact of the injury, guided by the Personal Injuries Guidelines.
• Special Damages: Financial losses directly attributable to the injury, such as:
  • Medical Expenses: Costs of treatment, medication, rehabilitation, and future medical care.
  • Loss of Earnings: Past and future loss of income due to inability to work or reduced earning capacity.
  • Care Costs: Expenses for personal care, assistance with daily tasks, and home modifications.
  • Travel Expenses: Costs associated with attending medical appointments.
  • Property Damage: If applicable, costs to repair or replace damaged property.

The calculation of compensation is complex and requires expert legal and medical assessment to ensure all current and future needs are adequately addressed.  

How Sherwin O’Riordan LLP Can Help with your Serious 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 Serious 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 an 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 Personal 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.