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Car Accident Claims2023-03-02T11:15:42+00:00

Car Accident Claims Solicitors

Car Accident Claims Solicitors

Have you been injured in a car accident that wasn’t your fault? Let’s get you the compensation you deserve.

  • Expert solicitors specialising in car accident claims
  • Vast experience of securing road traffic accident compensation since 1993
  • Free, no-obligation consultation on your claim
  • No connection to insurers or claims management companies
  • Affordable, 100% independent legal advice

Car Accident Claims, Northern Ireland

If, through no fault of your own, you’re suffering pain or hardship as a result of a car accident, you’re entitled to receive compensation. We pursue car accident claims in Northern Ireland on behalf of clients involved in various types of road traffic collision, including:

Collisions Involving Two Cars
Car crashes with two or more vehicles involved are usually caused by driver error, excessive speed, reckless driving, intoxication, distraction, bad weather or poor road surfaces.

Car Collisions With Fixed Objects
Car crashes might be caused by a single vehicle colliding with a pothole, kerb, wall, building, gate or signposts.

Car Collisions With Animals
Wild animals, pets and livestock can also create road hazards that result in crashes.

Car Accident Injuries

Car crashes can range from a minor bump to horrific collisions. Many accidents are now classified by police to determine the severity of the incident. The classification is usually based on the seriousness of the injuries sustained in the crash, so it often serves as a reliable guide for compensation claims.

The five classifications are:

Slight Injuries
Only minor injuries — which constitute small claims — were suffered. This covers injuries such as:

  • Whiplash
  • Shock
  • Bruising
  • Spains
  • Minor cuts and abrasions

Less Serious Injuries
A step up in pain levels and severity but unlikely to have a life-changing impact. Injuries deemed to be less serious include:

  • Minor head injuries
  • Deep cuts
  • Fractures to hands, arms, feet, ankles, lower legs or the collarbone

Moderately Serious Injuries
These are typically injuries to sensitive areas of the body or that are likely to require a longer recovery period. This includes:

  • Thigh or pelvis fractures
  • Chest injuries
  • Deeply penetrating wounds

Very Serious Injuries
Injuries deemed to be very serious usually involve a severe risk to life or the potential for life-changing injuries. This covers things like:

  • Broken neck or spine
  • Severe head, chest and crush injuries
  • Internal injuries
  • Multiple severe injuries with lost consciousness>/li>

Fatality

Covering accidents in which one or more lives were lost as a result of the collision.

Who can make a Car Accident Claim?

If you’ve been injured in a car accident and it wasn’t your fault, you’re eligible to make a claim. This is true for:

  • Drivers who were not at fault and did not cause the crash
  • Passengers who were travelling in a vehicle involved in the crash
  • Pedestrians who were hit by a car
  • Cyclists who were hit by a car or involved in a collision with a car
  • Children who were passengers, pedestrians or cyclists involved in a car accident

Car Accident Claim Process

If you’ve been involved in a car accident in any of the ways we’ve outlined above, we’ve created a car accident claims process that makes it easy to get the compensation you’re entitled to with minimal hassle. Here’s what you can expert when you entrust one of our expert solicitors with your car accident claim.

Step 1: Contact Reid Black
The important first step is to get in touch with one of our experienced car accident claims solicitors. In a free initial consultation, they will give you legal advice on your claim.

Step 2: Gathering Information
The next stage is to gather all of the information that will support your compensation claim. This might include eyewitness accounts, dashcam footage and medical notes.

Step 3: Medical Assessment
We will then arrange for an independent medical professional to assess your injuries. This will support your claim, add extra weight to your existing medical notes, and rule out any long-term conditions that might have been overlooked.

Step 4: Compensation Negotiations
With a clear picture of the extent of your injuries and the impact your car accident has had on your life, we will start negotiations with the insurance company to secure the maximum payout that you’re entitled to.

Step 5: Compensation Payout
Once a compensation amount is agreed, we will stay on the case until the money is safely deposited in your account in a timely manner.

How Long Do I Have To Make A Car Accident Claim?

In normal circumstances, you need to make a compensation claim within three years of a car accident. There are some exceptions that might allow a claim to be brought outside of that timeframe. These are:

Mental Capacity – If someone lacks the capacity to make a claim, there is no time limit enforced.

Car Accidents Involving Children – Anyone aged under 18 at the time of an accident has until their 21st birthday to make a claim.

Car Accidents Abroad – Some countries have shorter time limits for making a claim, but you may still be able to claim under UK law.

Criminal Injury – If your injuries were the result of criminal behaviour, you may be able to claim through the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA), which has a two-year time limit.

How Much Can I Claim For A Car Accident?

The amount of compensation you will be awarded for your car accident claim will depend on the seriousness of the injuries you sustained, the impact on your life and the type of damages for which you are claiming.

The damages you can claim are:

General Damages
This is compensation for the physical and psychological injuries you suffered in the accident.

Special Damages
This is compensation to reclaim money you were forced to spend because of the accident. It might include things like medical fees, travel expenses, care costs and loss of earnings.

Why Choose Reid Black?

We’ve been on the side of people injured in car accidents in Northern Ireland since 1993. Our solicitors are widely recognised as legal experts in road traffic accident claims. We will bring all of that legal knowledge and experience to secure the maximum compensation you deserve.

Our Specialist Car Accident Claims Solicitor – Peter Lynch

Our Specialist Car Accident Claims Solicitor – Peter Lynch

Peter Lynch
Peter Lynch
30 YEARS EXPERIENCE
  • Peter Lynch of Reid Black Solicitors is one of Northern Ireland’s Leading Road Traffic Accident Experts.
  • He will act for you solely and does not accept referrals from insurers or Accident Management companies thus ensuring we have your interests first.
  • Have an initial no-cost chat about any Road Traffic Accident to see if you have a case.
  • He acts in Car Accidents, Cycling & Motorbike Accidents and Pedestrian Accident Claims.
  • Peter will be able to Fast track your claim to get you the compensation you deserve.

Our Specialist Car Accident Claims Solicitor – Libby Smyth

Our Specialist Car Accident Claims Solicitor – Libby Smyth

Libby Smyth
Libby Smyth
20 YEARS EXPERIENCE
  • Libby Smyth is one Northern Ireland’s leading Road Traffic Accident and Personal Injury Solicitors.
  • She will handle your Road Traffic Accident Claim effectively and efficiently, keeping your best interests as her prime concern.
  • Specialist in all types of personal injury claims, with a focus on Road Traffic Injury Claims.
  • Libby can expedite your injury claim to ensure you get your compensation as fast as possible.
  • If you’ve been injured as a result of a Road Traffic Accident, contact Libby today for free initial chat to see if you’re eligible for a claim.

Our Specialist Car Accident Claims Solicitor – Eilis McQuillan

Our Specialist Car Accident Claims Solicitor – Eilis McQuillan

Eilis McQuillan
Eilis McQuillan
14 YEARS EXPERIENCE
  • Elis McQuillan has extensive experience dealing with Road Traffic Accident Claims in Northern Ireland.
  • She will prioritise your interest’s first and act solely on your behalf.
  • Specialist in all types of Road Traffic Accident Claims and Litigation, including Car Accidents, Cycling Accidents and Motorbike Accidents.
  • Ellis can Fast Track your Road Traffic Accident Claim, so you get your compensation as soon as possible.
  • Contact Ellis today for a free initial consultation to determine if you’re entitled to a Road Traffic Accident Claim.

Frequently Asked Questions

Straightforward car accident claims can be resolved in as little as three months. But claims involving serious or ongoing injuries can take longer.

You can’t come back to make a second claim so it’s important that the compensation agreed is based on an accurate picture of your medical circumstances. If a lengthy claim period causes you more hardship we can request an interim payment, which are discussed in more detail below.

There are two types of early compensation payouts. Interim payments are when we seek a partial compensation payment to ensure you have enough money to pay your bills or cover medical fees. The claim for full compensation continues unaffected.

This is very different from another type of early payment, which is when your insurance company tries to settle your case early without solicitors being involved. This usually involves an attractive but relatively low settlement figure, which we are always able to increase for clients.

Absolutely not. You should question why a particular law firm is recommended by your insurer. Has somebody paid for your information and, if so, will they be acting in your best interest or the insurance company’s interests? We never act on referrals from insurance companies and would urge you to work with a solicitor you can be certain is independent.

We resolve most car accident claims without having to go to court. But if an insurer is trying to pay less compensation than you deserve, we will not hesitate to take court action to get the correct payout.

There are schemes in place to help you secure compensation even if your car accident involved an uninsured driver or a driver who hasn’t been traced. We will still be able to pursue your claim in these circumstances.

No solicitor in Northern Ireland can offer you a no win no fee arrangement. It’s not allowed under our law. What we can do is provide a no fee consultation to discuss your case and advise you on your options. You can then decide whether to proceed with absolutely no obligation to do so.

If you were at fault, this will be a matter for your insurance company to deal with. But we can assist you with any police involvement in relation to the accident, for example if you’re being investigated in relation to dangerous or careless driving.

We regularly pursue car accident claims involving hitting animals. Unfortunately, animals escaping from fields and being on roads is a common occurrence in Northern Ireland.

Trust Us To Handle Your Car Accident Claim

Take the first step towards the compensation you deserve by getting in touch with our solicitors today.

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      Accreditations

      Three Best Rated

      Client Testimonials

      Client Testimonials

      William Campbell
      William Campbell
      16:37 13 Nov 19
      Great if you get stuck in a jam with the local police.
      Harry Walmsley
      Harry Walmsley
      14:51 22 Aug 19
      Brilliant solicitor. Thank you.
      Andrew Aicken
      Andrew Aicken
      08:51 20 Apr 18
      Great service from a professional company. Eilis McQuillan handled a case for me and was outstanding. I was kept informed at every stage and would recommend Reid Black without hesitation.
      Victoria J
      Victoria J
      10:12 18 May 18
      I would highly recommend this company and I have used them a few times . Absolutely Fantastic company .
      Alan Cromie
      Alan Cromie
      14:54 08 Nov 15
      I approached Reid Black Solicitors having known Hamill Clawson for many years as a good dependable lawyer and having been badly let down and grossly overcharged by another solicitor. He referred me to his colleague, David French who was very approachable and went out of his way to help resolve matters equitably in a timely and stress free manner.As a busy professional, this invaluable advice from Hamill and, especially his partner David was greatly appreciated. I am impressed by the high standard of service offered by this Firm and would recommended their services without caveat.read more
      Stephen Lavery
      Stephen Lavery
      09:12 21 Feb 20
      1st class service. Case was resolved quickly, handled with sensitivity and professionalism. Couldn’t recommend Eilis highly enough. Very happy.
      David Hogg
      David Hogg
      12:07 09 Mar 20
      Very helpful....quick results...
      Conor Mccomish
      Conor Mccomish
      21:47 25 Jul 20
      David helped me get a licence reinstated with the council. Very fast, efficient and professional service. I would highly recommend this company.
      mike naylor
      mike naylor
      09:41 06 Sep 20
      Great business
      Seema King
      Seema King
      17:07 30 Sep 20
      Highly recommend Reid Black Solicitors. David French handled my case and guided me step by step. Very fast and professional. Made my whole experience stress free. Couldn't be more thankful. 🙂
      Jonathan Loughlin
      Jonathan Loughlin
      16:52 29 Nov 20
      Highly experienced staff have helped me massively and would recommend them to anyone 10☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆
      Shaun Leese
      Shaun Leese
      13:18 31 Mar 21
      Worked with Karen Cox on house purchase. Fantastic service!
      Adrian Bodle
      Adrian Bodle
      14:57 23 Jul 21
      I would highly recommend Reid Black Solicitors. my experience was totally stress free and easy from the start. David handled my case in a professional manner, notifying me every step of the way. Thank you for all your hard work. A1read more
      James Cullen
      James Cullen
      14:53 23 Jul 21
      Had the best service from all at Reid black from David and Karen who dealt with my claim, all in all a great service I would highly recommend this Company to anybody wanting a professional service, thankyou to everyone at your office. odyread more
      TONIK TZW (tonik_tzw)
      TONIK TZW (tonik_tzw)
      14:17 29 Jul 21
      Reid and Black were absolutely outstanding and extremely professional in their handling of my case, They were well organised, timely and informative in their updates as the case progressed. The outcome was even better than anticipated which can only be due to the excellent knowledge, tenacity and determination in seeking a satisfactory outcome. I would highly recommend their services to anyone.read more
      Phoebe Brigginshaw
      Phoebe Brigginshaw
      17:09 08 Dec 21
      Karen was wonderful and took fantastic card of us as first time buyers. Excellent service all round, thank you so much!
      David Raeburn
      David Raeburn
      11:48 10 Feb 22
      I would like to thank Reid Black solicitors for the outstanding work you have done for all the veterans who have mostly suffered in silence and would never have thought to start any sort of compensation claim against the MOD,also to find out that your firm does not take a penny from the veteran's settlement just shows the amazing integrity of Reid Black.read more
      Luke Tedford
      Luke Tedford
      12:26 31 Mar 22
      Just want to start off by Thanking Eilis for helping me through everything. I arrived in with very little expectations to get anywhere and I came out with exactly what I wanted, all thanks to the hard work and dedication of Eilis. When I first met Eilis she gave me the warmest reception and was fully understanding and complient with what I wanted. The best solicitors in Belfast hands down! would very highly recommend to anyone!read more
      Jude Campbell
      Jude Campbell
      13:18 11 May 22
      We would like to thank Reid Black Solicitors and specifically David French for helping us in a recent professional negligence case. His professionalism was a breath of fresh air and the positive outcome we received has been a weight off our shoulders, we would highly recommend David and his team.read more
      CJ MCKIMM
      CJ MCKIMM
      11:13 05 Jun 22
      A big thanks to David and the team for sorting out my hearing loss claim. Very professional, polite and efficient throughout.
      Leonidasz Rafael
      Leonidasz Rafael
      14:29 25 Jun 22
      at this location The staff is very kind quick helpful hilarious Mr Hamill very professional defense attorney I recommend to everyone protection and tranquility are highly guaranteed always provides the best and fastest help if you are looking for the best defense attorney Mr Hamill 💯💯read more
      James Tate
      James Tate
      22:28 26 Aug 22
      Excellent attraction staff super.
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