Who Can Make a Personal Injury Claim?

If you’ve been injured in an accident, you may be wondering: Who can make a personal injury claim? The simple answer is that anyone who has suffered injury, illness, or financial loss because of someone else’s fault may be able to claim.

At Claims 24 Hours, we make it easy to understand your rights. Whether you were hurt in a road accident, at work, in a public place, or even as a victim of crime, you may be entitled to compensation.

Making a Claim for Yourself

The most common type of claim is when you make it for yourself. If you were injured in an accident that wasn’t your fault, you have the right to seek compensation. This applies to:

• Road traffic accidents

• Slips, trips, and falls in public places

• Workplace injuries

• Medical negligence

• Criminal injuries

As long as the accident wasn’t fully your fault, you can usually make a claim.

Parents Making a Claim for a Child

Children under 18 cannot make their own claims. A parent or guardian can act as their representative, also known as a “litigation friend.”

This is common in cases such as:

• Road accidents involving children

• School accidents

• Playground or park injuries

• Medical negligence affecting children

The claim can be made before the child turns 18, or they can make it themselves once they become an adult.

Claims Made on Behalf of Someone Else

Sometimes, injured people are not able to bring a claim themselves. In these cases, a family member, friend, or legal representative can make a claim on their behalf. This usually happens when the injured person:

• Lacks mental capacity to manage their own affairs

• Is in hospital with serious injuries

• Has passed away, leaving dependants who can claim

Claims After a Fatal Accident

If a loved one has died because of an accident that wasn’t their fault, close relatives may be able to claim. This could include:

• A partner or spouse

• Parents

• Children or other dependants

Compensation can cover funeral costs, financial support that has been lost, and the emotional impact on the family.

When Can You NOT Make a Claim?

Not every situation qualifies for compensation. You may not be able to claim if:

• The accident was entirely your fault

• The time limit for making a claim has passed

• There is no evidence to prove negligence

That’s why it’s important to get early advice from a solicitor to check your options.

How Long Do You Have to Make a Claim?

Most personal injury claims must be made within three years of the accident. For children, the three-year period starts on their 18th birthday. For people lacking mental capacity, the time limit may not apply until they recover.

Why Choose a Solicitor for Your Claim?

Having a solicitor makes the process easier because they:

• Gather the evidence needed for your case

• Handle all paperwork and negotiations

• Deal with insurers on your behalf

• Ensure your claim is filed within the legal time limit

At Claims 24 Hours, our no win no fee service means there’s no financial risk when starting your claim.

FAQs – Who Can Make a Personal Injury Claim?

Can I claim if the accident was partly my fault?
Yes, but your compensation may be reduced if you share some responsibility.

Can children make personal injury claims?
Yes, but the claim must be brought by a parent or guardian until the child turns 18.

Can I claim for someone who has died?
Yes, close relatives and dependants may be able to claim after a fatal accident.

Who decides if I’m eligible to claim?
A solicitor will check your case, gather evidence, and advise if you qualify.

Is there a time limit for making a claim?
Yes, most claims must be made within three years, though exceptions apply for children and those without mental capacity.

Conclusion

So, who can make a personal injury claim? In short, anyone injured in an accident caused by someone else’s fault can usually make a claim. Parents can claim for children, families can claim after a loved one’s death, and representatives can claim for those unable to do it themselves.

At Claims 24 Hours, we help clients every day to start their claims quickly and confidently. With our no win no fee promise, you can focus on recovery while we handle the process.