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Road Traffic Accident Claims

Thousands of people across Ireland are involved in traffic collisions every year. Official figures suggest as many as 9,000 people are caught up in road accidents. Up to 700 of them suffer serious injury, and more than 180 lose their lives. Even when injuries are less severe, these events are troubling experiences that leave people in shock and sometimes facing unexpected financial burdens. Good & Murray Smith LLP has spent decades advising on road traffic accidents, and our team is determined to secure justice for every single client.

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Why Road Traffic Accidents Are So Common

According to the Injuries Board, road traffic collisions account for the most frequent source of personal injury claims, with 75% of overall awards in Ireland relating to car crashes. Contributing factors include speeding, driver fatigue, hazardous weather, merging traffic, driving under the influence, and texting while driving. Unfortunately, these risky behaviours can result in life-changing consequences for innocent drivers, passengers, cyclists, or pedestrians.

Common Types of Road Traffic Accident Claims

  • 01

    Aviation Accident Claims

    Air travel incidents, whether small-plane crashes or major airline disasters, are harrowing. If you have been injured in an aviation accident, our solicitors can help determine liability – be it pilot error, mechanical failure, or neglected safety checks – and pursue compensation for your injuries and related losses.

    Aviation Accident Claims
  • 02

    Car Accident Claims

    Car crashes remain the most frequently reported. Collisions can happen for many reasons, from speeding to carelessness. If you have been hurt in a car crash that was not your fault, our solicitors help establish the responsible party and claim for your injuries, medical bills and other related expenses.

    Car Accident Claims
  • 03

    Cycling Accident Claims

    Cyclists are especially vulnerable on busy roads. Crashes can arise from driver inattention, faulty cycle lanes, or defective equipment. Our firm supports injured cyclists by proving who was at fault and claiming damages for hospital bills, ongoing care and the personal impact of the collision.

    Cycling Accident Claims
  • 04

    E-scooter & E-bike Claims

    E-scooters and e-bikes are on the rise, but accidents involving them can cause serious injury. If you were hurt in an incident resulting from defective equipment or careless road users, we help seek compensation to cover medical costs, missed work and any lasting consequences.

    E-scooter & E-bike Claims
  • 05

    Hit and Run Claims

    Hit and runs leave victims feeling devastated and alone. Even if the driver flees, you can still pursue damages. We guide you through the Motor Insurers’ Bureau of Ireland (MIBI) process, ensuring you receive support for injuries, property damage, and the emotional turmoil of a fleeing culprit.

    Hit and Run Claims
  • 06

    Maritime Accident Claims

    Accidents at sea—such as ferry collisions or boating mishaps – can be profoundly distressing. Our solicitors focus on maritime regulations to identify responsible parties, claiming compensation for injuries, emotional suffering and the cost of specialised medical care often required.

    Maritime Accident Claims
  • 07

    Motorbike Accident Claims

    Motorbikes offer little physical protection in crashes. If someone else’s negligence caused your injuries, we help pinpoint liability – whether another driver, poor road conditions, or mechanical faults – and secure the financial support you need for ongoing treatment and recovery.

    Motorbike Accident Claims
  • 08

    Public Transport Accident Claims

    Buses, trams, and trains carry large numbers of passengers daily. When collisions or sudden stops cause injuries, we work to prove operator or third-party fault, assisting you in recovering losses related to medical treatment, missed employment and personal distress.

    Public Transport Accident Claims
  • 09

    Road Rage Claims

    Aggressive driving and heated confrontations on the roads is traumatising. If you have been injured by a road rage incident, we gather the evidence – like dashcam footage – and fight for damages that address your medical bills, emotional trauma, and any other related costs.

    Road Rage Claims
  • 10

    Taxi Accident Claims

    Collisions involving taxis affect both the driver and passengers. If negligence by the taxi driver or another motorist caused the incident, a passenger can seek compensation for the harm endured.

    Taxi Accident Claims
  • 11

    Uninsured Driver Claims

    Crashes with uninsured or untraced drivers can be extremely unsettling. We liaise with the Motor Insurers’ Bureau of Ireland (MIBI) on your behalf, seeking compensation for injuries, vehicle repairs and any resulting financial strain caused by at-fault but uninsured motorists.

    Uninsured Driver Claims
  • 12

    Whiplash Injury Claims

    Sudden impacts often lead to whiplash, a painful neck and back injury. If another party’s negligence caused your crash, we pursue compensation that covers treatment, loss of earnings and any long-term discomfort or mobility issues related to whiplash.

    Whiplash Injury Claims

Common Causes of Serious Collisions

  • Speeding
  • Driving in hazardous weather
  • Fatigue
  • Merging traffic without caution
  • Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
  • Texting or using a phone behind the wheel

These negligent actions can lead to serious road incidents and represent a large portion of the claims we see. A claim allows you to hold the other party accountable and receive the compensation necessary for recovery.

What to Do After a Road Traffic Accident

Seek Medical Attention

Your wellbeing is always paramount. If there is any injury, see a healthcare professional immediately. Prompt checks not only protect your health but can serve as key documentation in later claims.

Gather Vital Information on the Scene

If possible, exchange names, addresses, phone numbers, and insurance details with the other parties. Record their vehicle registrations and the names of any witnesses. Take photos or videos of the accident scene, including damage to vehicles, road conditions, and any debris. Avoid admitting liability at any stage.

Report the Incident to the Gardaí

Collisions that cause injuries on public roads in Ireland should be reported to the Gardaí. In some cases, the Gardaí may choose not to attend if they consider the accident minor. Even so, you can visit your local Garda station to make a statement. Note the Garda’s name, rank, and station for future reference.

Contact Your Insurance Company

Notify your insurer promptly. Provide them with accurate details of the incident. If your insurer requests more information, try to supply it as soon as you can.

Speak to a Road Traffic Accident Solicitor

Bringing a solicitor into the process at an early stage helps preserve evidence and protects your rights. We guide you on obtaining medical reports, liaising with insurance companies, and assembling the necessary proof for a strong claim.

Establishing Liability

In many collisions, the driver who rear-ended someone or broke traffic regulations is considered responsible. Where fault is not immediately clear, consider physical evidence (car positions, road markings, dashcam footage) and witness statements. Liability often hinges on demonstrating that the other party failed to take proper care.

The Steps Involved in Making a Claim

Prepare Information for a Solicitor

Ahead of contacting us, gather as many relevant details as you can: accident date, location, parties involved, police references, and any medical records so far.

Medical Report

Our firm usually obtains a full medical report from your GP or another physician. This outlines the nature of your injuries, their likely cause, and what treatments you need.

Applying to the Personal Injuries Resolution Board (PIAB)

Most personal injury claims in Ireland begin with submitting Form A and a medical report to the Injuries Board. They assess claims and set a figure for compensation if both parties agree to their involvement. Should either side reject that figure, a claimant is free to bring the matter to the courts.

Negotiation or Litigation

Negotiation with the opposing side’s insurer can happen at any stage. If an insurer’s offer is inadequate or liability is contested, a claimant can bring the matter to trial. The timeframe for resolving a claim varies. Simple cases might finish in under a year, while more complex ones may take longer.

Compensation for Road Traffic Accidents

Road collision settlements are typically categorised as follows:

  • General damages: Non-financial hardships like physical pain, emotional trauma, and stress.
  • Special damages: Concrete losses such as missed wages, doctors’ bills, and any extra transport costs you have faced. They also cover damage to personal belongings, like your vehicle, bike, or other property.

Time Limits for Road Traffic Accident Claims

Irish law usually grants two years from the accident date or from when you became aware of your injuries to initiate a personal injury action. Seeking legal advice promptly ensures your claim is filed within the statutory timeframe. If you are uncertain about your deadlines, contact us, and we will clarify how much time you have left.

How Good & Murray Smith LLP Assists You

With decades of practical knowledge handling road traffic accident claims, our team of experienced solicitors can take control of the matter and help you win fair compensation. We manage communication with insurers, gather witness evidence, collaborate with medical experts, and ensure you stay informed each step of the way. If you wish to talk about an accident you have been involved in, we welcome you to reach out.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if the other driver doesn’t have insurance?

If the other driver is uninsured or flees the scene, you may still be able to claim compensation through the Motor Insurers’ Bureau of Ireland (MIBI). This body handles claims for accidents involving uninsured or unidentified drivers.

Can I claim compensation if I wasn’t wearing a seatbelt?

Yes, but your compensation may be reduced due to contributory negligence. Not wearing a seatbelt could suggest you share some responsibility for the extent of your injuries, even if the other driver caused the accident.

What happens if both drivers are partly at fault?

If fault is shared, compensation may still be awarded but reduced based on each party’s level of responsibility. For instance, if you are found 30% at fault, your award will be reduced by that percentage.

Can I claim for emotional distress after a car accident?

Yes. Emotional distress, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), can be included as part of a claim for general damages. A psychological evaluation may be necessary to substantiate this aspect of your claim.

What if my accident happened while I was a passenger in a car?

As a passenger, you have the right to claim compensation for your injuries, regardless of which driver was at fault. This can include the driver of the car you were in or another vehicle involved in the collision.

Can I make a claim for whiplash injuries?

Yes. Whiplash is a common injury in road traffic accidents. Your claim can include treatment costs, lost earnings, and any ongoing pain or discomfort caused by the injury.

Do I need dashcam footage to make a claim?

While dashcam footage strengthens your case, it is not essential. Witness statements, photographs, and police reports can also be used to establish liability and support your claim.

What if my accident occurred while cycling but no vehicle was involved?

You can still make a claim if the accident was caused by someone else’s negligence, such as a poorly maintained road or a pedestrian’s careless behaviour. Evidence of the hazard will be crucial to your case.

Can I claim for injuries caused by faulty vehicle parts?

Yes. If your injuries resulted from defective parts or improper maintenance by a garage, you might be able to claim against the manufacturer, supplier, or service provider.

How long does it take to settle a road traffic accident claim?

The timeframe varies depending on the complexity of the case. Straightforward claims may settle within a year, while disputes over liability or severe injuries requiring long-term assessments can take longer. Consulting an experienced solicitor ensures the process moves as efficiently as possible.

Contact Us

Road collisions are distressing experiences that turn lives upside down. If you are ready to explore a road traffic accident claim, we stand prepared to offer clear, supportive advice. Connect with Good & Murray Smith LLP to find out how we can help you move forward.

Speak to a solicitor

Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm. Tell us briefly what happened and we will come back to you.

Get in touch+353 1 7644100