How long do I have to make a compensation claim?

The Limitation Act 1980 defines how long you have to make a claim for personal injury.

Here are some of the key elements within the act:

1) In actions for damages for personal injury, the limitation period is three years.

2) This starts to run either from the date on which the injury occurred or:

3) From the date on which the person injured first had knowledge of the injury. The date of knowledge is the first date on which the claimant has knowledge:

4) The limitation period does not effectively start until the claimant reaches the age of 18. eg someone who is 15 at the time of an accident would have until their 21st birthday to make their personal injury claim.

The reality is that the sooner you make your claim - the better. There are various reasons for this.

Firstly witness evidence will be fresh and statements from key individuals (including you!) will be more accurate.

Secondly your representatives can arrange for immediate protective insurance based on readily available facts. The insurance protects you against losing the claim and paying costs [learn more].

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Thirdly, your medical situation can be managed better. In other words we can receive early advice on your condition or ongoing symptoms and organise physio or similar therapy for you.

Fourthly, the more time we have to start settlement negotiations on your claim, the less likely your case will end up in court. [learn more?]

If you think your accident claim may fall within the limitation periods discussed - why not make an enquiry. Just complete the brief form opposite. Our team will respond to all written enquiries within 24 hours.

For immediate assistance please telephone our FREEPHONE helpline on 0800 0322210

Please note that any information you submit will be held on computer and consequently will be covered under the provisions of the Data Protection Act. "The Claims Connection" is a subsidiary of MJN Marketing Ltd. (registered number 04772563)