If you have suffered an injury due to someone else’s negligence in Plymouth, you may be entitled to compensation through a personal injury claim. Personal injury law covers a broad range of incidents, from road traffic accidents and workplace injuries to slips, trips and medical negligence. For residents of Plymouth and the surrounding areas, understanding your rights and how the claims process works is key to securing fair compensation.
In this guide, we explore everything you need to know about personal injury claims in Plymouth. We will cover the types of accidents that qualify, how the claims process works, and why working with experienced solicitors can make all the difference.
What is a personal injury claim?
A personal injury claim is a legal process that allows individuals who have been injured as a result of someone else’s negligence to seek financial compensation. The aim is to restore the injured person as closely as possible to the position they were in before the injury occurred.
Compensation can cover a range of losses, including:
- Physical and psychological injuries
- Medical expenses
- Loss of earnings
- Travel costs
- Care and assistance
To make a successful claim, you must be able to prove that another party was at fault and that their actions directly caused your injury.
Common types of personal injury claims in Plymouth
Residents of Plymouth may find themselves dealing with a variety of personal injury scenarios. Some of the most common types include:
Road traffic accidents
With busy roads like the A38 and Tavistock Road running through Plymouth, road traffic accidents are unfortunately a frequent occurrence. Whether you are a driver, passenger, cyclist or pedestrian, you may be eligible to claim if another motorist’s negligence caused your injury.
Accidents at work
Employers in Plymouth have a legal duty to provide a safe working environment. If you have suffered an injury due to faulty equipment, poor training or unsafe working practices, you may have grounds to claim compensation from your employer.
Public place accidents
If you trip on a poorly maintained pavement, fall in a shopping centre or suffer an injury in any public area, you may be able to bring a claim against the local authority or business responsible for maintaining the space.
Medical negligence
Plymouth is home to several healthcare providers, including Derriford Hospital. If you have received substandard medical treatment that caused you harm, you may be entitled to compensation through a medical negligence claim.
Slips and trips
Slipping on a wet floor in a supermarket or tripping over uneven paving stones can lead to painful injuries. If your fall was due to someone else’s failure to maintain a safe environment, you may be able to claim.
Who can make a personal injury claim?
In most cases, you can make a personal injury claim if:
- You were injured in the last three years
- The injury was caused by someone else’s negligence
- You suffered physical, emotional or financial harm
There are exceptions to the three-year time limit. For example, if the injured person is under 18 or lacks mental capacity, the time limit may be extended. Speaking with a solicitor will help clarify your specific eligibility.
How to start a personal injury claim in Plymouth
Starting a personal injury claim might seem daunting, but with the right legal guidance, the process is straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step look at what to expect:
- Seek medical attention
Your health should always come first. Visit your GP or local hospital as soon as possible after your accident. Medical records will play a crucial role in supporting your claim.
- Gather evidence
To prove negligence, you will need to provide evidence. This might include:
- Photos of the accident scene
- Witness statements
- CCTV footage
- Accident reports
- Medical records
- Speak to a personal injury solicitor
A specialist solicitor will assess the strength of your claim, advise you on your next steps and deal with the paperwork. Many offer a free initial consultation and handle cases on a no win, no fee basis.
- Make your claim
Once your solicitor has gathered the necessary evidence, they will formally submit your claim to the responsible party’s insurance company. The insurer will then investigate and either accept liability or dispute the claim.
- Settlement or court proceedings
Most claims settle out of court. If an agreement cannot be reached, the case can be taken to court by your attorney to secure the compensation you deserve.
How long does a personal injury claim take?
The timeline for resolving a personal injury claim can vary based on the complexity of the case and whether the other party admits liability. On average:
- Straightforward claims may settle in 6–9 months
- Moderate complexity claims may take 9–18 months
- Serious injury claims can take 18 months or longer
A solicitor can give you a clearer idea of timescales once they understand the specifics of your case.
How much compensation could you receive?
The amount of compensation depends on several factors, including:
- The severity of your injury
- The length of your recovery
- Any lasting effects on your quality of life
- Loss of income or earning potential
- Additional expenses (e.g. travel, treatment, care)
Compensation is usually split into two categories:
- General damages: For pain, suffering and loss of amenity
- Special damages: For financial losses and expenses
Your solicitor will use medical evidence and industry guidelines to estimate a fair compensation amount for your situation.
Why choose Marley Solicitors for your personal injury claim in Plymouth?
At Marley Solicitors, we understand that a personal injury can have a lasting impact on your life. That is why we are committed to helping clients in Plymouth recover the compensation they are entitled to with minimal stress.
Local knowledge
Our team is familiar with the Plymouth area and its institutions, giving us an advantage when investigating claims and liaising with local authorities and medical professionals.
Specialist expertise
We specialise in personal injury law and have a strong track record of securing positive outcomes for our clients. Whether your injury is minor or life-changing, we will handle your claim with care and precision.
No win, no fee
We believe that access to justice should not depend on your financial situation. That is why we offer a no win, no fee arrangement, so you only pay legal fees if your claim is successful.
Clear communication
Legal jargon can be confusing, so we prioritise clear, honest communication. You will always know where you stand and what to expect throughout your claim.
What to do if you are unsure about making a claim
If you are unsure whether you have a valid claim, it is worth speaking to a solicitor. A short consultation can provide clarity on your rights and the strength of your case. There is no obligation to proceed, but getting professional advice early can make all the difference.
Contact Marley Solicitors in Plymouth
If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident that was not your fault, do not suffer in silence. Contact Marley Solicitors today to find out how we can help you secure the compensation you deserve.
Our team in Plymouth is ready to listen, advise and support you every step of the way.
