Damages are assessed under various categories. These include:

1. Damages for pain, suffering and loss of quality of life

These damages are often called 'general damages' and compensate for injuries which arise as a result of the accident. The amount of compensation will depend upon the nature and extent of the injuries, both physical and psychological, and the effect that they have on normal activities such as sports and hobbies.

2. Damages for financial losses to the date of trial or settlement

These are known as 'special damages' and compensate for financial losses and expenses incurred because of the injury as well as property damage.

These will include:

• Vehicle damage losses such as repair costs or the policy excess
• Hire charges
  
• Loss of earnings.
• Any private, medical or therapeutic expenses
• The costs of any aids and equipment
• The value of extra care provided by members of the family or friends during and after discharge from hospital, or alternatively the loss of earnings suffered by a relative who has provided care support
• Travel and other expenses reasonably incurred
• Damaged items of clothing
  

It is important that details of all expenses and items purchased as a result of the accident are retained, so that we can prove that there has been financial loss.

3. Damages for future losses and expenses

People who sustain serious injuries may suffer long term loss and expense as a direct result. Calculation of the actual sums involved is complicated. However, compensation will take into account some or all of the following:

• Future loss of earnings, including the loss of any promotion prospects
• The cost of providing all personal care support required in the future, even where it is likely that a relative will provide care on a voluntary basis
• Damages representing the losses which will arise if special accommodation is required, including any adaption or extra running expenses
• Costs of physiotherapy, speech therapy and any other specialist therapeutic service
• Costs of any special aids and equipment, including their annual maintenance and replacement costs
• Extra costs of transport, particularly if a special vehicle is necessary
  

How to begin a personal injury claim following a Road Traffic Accident

If you or anyone you know has suffered an injury as a result of a road traffic accident, telephone us now for accurate claim advice.

Our solicitors are experts in all personal injury matters. We will be able to advise you whether or not you have a valid claim for compensation.

Our specialist personal injury lawyers will be happy to talk you through the process of making a claim in plain English and will be happy to answer any questions or queries you may have.

If you do have a valid personal injury compensation claim and you decide to instruct our solicitors to deal with the matter for you, we will recover our legal fees from the person responsible for your injury, ensuring that the entire procedure is cost-free for you.

Telephone us now on 0800 066 99 07 or email your query to receive excellent free compensation claim advice