Being involved in a road traffic accident can be a stressful and sometimes life-altering experience. Whether you were behind the wheel, on foot, or cycling, an unexpected collision can leave you dealing with physical injuries, emotional strain and financial loss all in a matter of seconds.
If the accident wasn’t your fault and you’ve suffered an injury as a result, you may be entitled to make a claim. At Anthony Joyce & Co Solicitors, we work with people across Dublin and surrounding areas every day who find themselves in that very situation, unsure of what to do next, what their rights are, or even whether their injury is worth pursuing a claim for.
This article outlines what to consider if you’re thinking about making a road traffic accident claim, and how we can help.
It Doesn’t Have to Be a Major Collision
Many people assume that unless an accident is serious, or their injuries are immediately obvious, there’s no point in seeking legal advice. This simply isn’t true.
Even low-impact crashes can cause injuries like whiplash or soft tissue damage. In some cases, symptoms take hours or days to appear. What may feel like a “minor knock” at the time can turn into weeks of pain, disrupted sleep, time off work and costly physiotherapy.
The bottom line? If you’ve been injured and someone else was at fault, you may have a valid claim, regardless of how serious the accident seemed at the time.
What Does a Claim Actually Cover?
When people contact us after a road traffic accident, they often ask: “Is it even worth it?”
The answer depends on your specific case, but compensation can cover far more than people realise.
This includes:
- Medical treatment costs
- Loss of income if you’ve had to take time off work
- Ongoing care or rehabilitation
- Travel or prescription expenses
- Pain and suffering (known as general damages)
Even smaller claims can provide financial relief that helps you get your life back on track.
What Should You Do After an Accident?
If you’re reading this shortly after an accident, here are some key steps that can strengthen your position if you decide to claim:
- Get medical attention – Even if you feel okay, always get checked by a GP or hospital.
- Gather evidence – Obtain details of the offending vehicle and take photos of the scene, your injuries and any vehicle damage.
- Report the incident – If the Gardaí weren’t present, go to your local station and log the accident.
- Keep records – Hold onto medical notes, receipts, and details of time missed from work.
- Get legal advice – A quick consultation with a solicitor can give you clarity and direction.
What If the Driver Left the Scene?
Sadly, hit and run cases are not uncommon. If you don’t have the other driver’s details, all is not lost. You may still be able to claim through the Motor Insurers’ Bureau of Ireland (MIBI). We regularly assist clients with these types of cases and can guide you through what’s needed to move forward.
Is There a Time Limit?
Yes. In most cases, a claim must be started within two years of the accident date. There are exceptions, for example, where a child is involved, but acting quickly gives you the best chance of a successful claim.
You Don’t Have to Handle It Alone
We understand how overwhelming the aftermath of an accident can be. At Anthony Joyce & Co Solicitors, we specialise in road traffic accident claims. We’ll handle the process, protect your interests and work to get the compensation you’re entitled to — without adding to your stress.
If you’re not sure whether your situation qualifies, or if you’ve been delaying action and want to know where you stand, we’re happy to talk it through with you.
Click here to learn more about our Road Traffic Accident Claim services
Whether your injuries are recent or ongoing, don’t write off your right to claim. What matters is that you get proper advice and understand your options.
Contact us today on (01) 270 9870 or reach out through our contact page to speak with one of our expert personal injury solicitors.
