What Are The Time Limits For Making A Personal Injury Claim?
Discover the time limits for making a personal injury claim in the UK, including exceptions, and how personal injury solicitors can assist with your claim.
Apr 28, 2025632 Shares8.4K Views
When you're involved in an accident or suffer from an injury caused by someone else's negligence, it's important to act quickly. One key aspect that affects your ability to claim compensation is the time limit for making a personal injury claim. Understanding these limits can be crucial for securing the compensation you're entitled to.
Continue reading to discover all the necessary details regarding time limits for making a personal injury claim!
Understanding Personal Injury Claims
A personal injury claim allows individuals to seek compensation for harm or injury caused due to the negligence or recklessness of others. This could stem from a variety of situations, such as road traffic accidents, slips and falls, or medical malpractice. However, the clock starts ticking from the moment the injury occurs, and this is where time limits become vital.
Why Timely Action Is Crucial
It’s important to seek legal advice from personal injury solicitors Glasgowor your local area as soon as possible. Failing to make a claim within the time limit can prevent you from obtaining compensation, regardless of the circumstances surrounding your injury. Additionally, gathering evidence, obtaining witness statements, and seeking medical treatment all play a role in building a strong case so the sooner you begin, the better.
Time Limits For Personal Injury Claims In The UK
In the UK, the standard time limit for making a personal injury claim is three years from the date of the accident or injury. However, there are exceptions, so it’s essential to be aware of specific circumstances that may affect the deadline.
1. The Date Of The Accident
For most cases, the three-year time limit starts from the date the accident or injury occurred. If you’re involved in a car accident or slip and fall, your claim must typically be made within three years from the date of the event.
2. The Date Of Knowledge
Sometimes, injuries or the extent of the damage may not be immediately apparent. For example, you may have developed symptoms of a condition like asbestos-related disease years after exposure. In such cases, the three-year period starts from the date of knowledge, or when you first became aware (or should reasonably have known) that your injury was related to the incident.
3. Claims Involving Children
If the injured party is under 18, they are given a longer time frame to make a claim. The time limit is extended until their 18th birthday. However, a claim can be made on their behalf by a litigation friend (usually a parent or guardian) before they reach adulthood.
4. Mental Incapacity
If the injured party lacks the mental capacity to make a claim, the time limit does not begin until they regain capacity. The court can appoint a litigation friend to act on their behalf during this period.
Exceptions And Extensions To The Time Limit
Some rare instances allow an extension of the personal injury claim time limit, often involving complex cases like medical negligence or fatal accidents. If you believe you may qualify for an extension after the three-year period, consult a solicitor to explore your options.
Get Legal Help Today
Understanding the time limits for personal injury claims is crucial for protecting your rights. If you've been injured due to someone else’s actions, seek advice from an experienced personal injury solicitor today to ensure you don’t miss your chance for compensation.
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