Frequently Asked Questions

The process of taking a personal injury claim through the Injuries Board can take some months. If it goes to court it will take longer than that. However, more than 80% of personal injury cases do not reach a court hearing, because they are settled first.

A personal injuries claim must be commenced within 2 years (3 years in Northern Ireland). Other claims must generally be brought within 6 years.

After accepting an offer of settlement for a personal injury claim you will usually receive your compensation money within 14-28 days from the date of settlement. However this timeframe is only a general guide, as how long it takes to receive your compensation can vary based on many factors.

While insurers typically have a goal of settling and paying your claim within 30 days, it’s not a hard requirement. But chances are the insurance company will do their best to get your claim filed as soon as possible. 

How Long Do I Have To Make A Whiplash Claim? You have up to two years (three in Northern Ireland) since the date of the accident to make a claim. The only exception is if you’re claiming on behalf of a child. Children have up to two years from the date they turn 18 to claim (again three in Northern Ireland).

The general rule for adults who are considering making a claim for personal injury compensation is that you have two years from the date of the accident (three in Northern Ireland) or incident in which to bring a claim.

Compensation awards and personal injuries actions are treated as capital rather than income for taxation purposes. The actual settlement or award sum received in a personal injury action is not subject to tax.

Unless you have taken independent advice on the whole value of your claim, you should not accept a first offer from an insurance company.

At this meeting you will meet with your solicitor and barrister to discuss your case and negotiations will then take place between your legal team and the legal team for the other side. An offer is generally made and you will be advised by your solicitor and barrister as to whether this is adequate.

After accepting an offer of settlement for a personal injury claim you will usually receive your compensation money within 14-28 days from the date of settlement. However this timeframe is only a general guide, as how long it takes to receive your compensation can vary based on the below factors.

To commence proceedings, that is, to start a legal action, the plaintiff’s barrister prepares a Civil Bill/Plenary Summons/Writ. The purpose of this document is to state the case being made against the defendant.