An injury changeseverything around you.

Generally, you have three years from the date of the accident (or from when you became aware of the injury) to start a claim. For children, the time limit does not begin until they turn 18. For industrial disease claims, the three years may start from the date of diagnosis rather than exposure. It is critical not to delay — evidence degrades and witness memories fade.

Most personal injury claims settle without going to court. Your solicitor negotiates with the other party or their insurer. Only a small percentage of cases reach a courtroom hearing, usually when liability is strongly disputed. A specialist solicitor will always aim for the most efficient resolution.

Compensation is split into two parts. General damages cover pain, suffering, and loss of amenity — the impact on your quality of life. Special damages cover financial losses: lost earnings, medical expenses, care costs, travel expenses, and adaptations to your home. The amount depends on injury severity, recovery time, and long-term impact.

No. Most personal injury claims in the UK are handled on a no win, no fee basis. This means you do not pay anything upfront, and legal fees are only deducted from compensation if your claim succeeds. The fee is typically capped as a percentage of your compensation. A free case review helps determine whether your situation qualifies.

You may still be able to claim. Under UK law, contributory negligence reduces your compensation proportionally rather than removing it entirely. For example, if you were found 20% at fault, your compensation would be reduced by 20%. A specialist solicitor can advise on how this might apply to your case.

No. Claim Builder provides general guidance and helps connect you with specialist personal injury solicitors. It does not constitute legal advice. For specific legal advice about your injury claim, we recommend a free case review with a qualified solicitor.