Personal Injury and Accident Claims in Ireland
Accidents happen unfortunately, and although it is not rocket science β after you have been injured in a personal accident by the negligence of a third party which was not your fault and have suffered bodily injuries, you need an experienced Personal Injury Solicitor for a claim in Ireland.
You need to understand the process of claiming damages for your injury with the right support alongside you all the way. Yes, you can do it on your own β but there are serious pitfalls and traps all the way when dealing directly with the Personal Injury Assessment Board in any personal injury claim. It is only after you have processed your claim through PIAB that you have the authority to issue court proceedings.
π‘ Why You Need a Personal Injury Solicitor in Ireland
The PIAB process involves detailed forms, strict deadlines, medical reports, and legal procedures. A single mistake can cost you your claim. Our expert solicitors manage the entire process on your behalf, ensuring the best possible outcome for your case.
Benefits From Using Our Personal Injury Services
- We will make your Personal Injury accident claim process smooth and successful
- We will deal with the Injuries Resolution Board (IRB) / Injuries Board (formerly PIAB) on your behalf
- We will negotiate the best possible settlement of your injuries claim
- We will handle all paperwork, medical reports, and legal documentation
- We will advise you on the true value of your personal injury claim
- We will represent you in court proceedings if required
- No Win No Fee* β no upfront costs and no financial risk to you
- Personal, dedicated service from an experienced solicitor throughout
How Do Personal Injury Claims Work in Ireland?
The process of making a personal injury claim in Ireland follows a structured legal pathway. Here is a clear overview of how the process works from start to finish:
Contact a Personal Injury Solicitor
The first step is to contact Gary Matthews Solicitors β Injury Law for your free, no-obligation consultation. We will assess the merits of your claim and advise you on the best course of action.
Medical Assessment
You must attend a medical assessment to document your injuries. This medical report is a critical piece of evidence in your personal injury claim. Your solicitor will assist you in obtaining the necessary medical reports and expert opinions.
Filing with the Injuries Resolution Board (IRB)
Almost all personal injury claims (except medical negligence) must first be filed with the Injuries Resolution Board (IRB), formerly known as PIAB. Your solicitor will complete and file all required forms and medical documentation with the Board.
IRB Assessment
The IRB assesses your claim and will make an award based on the Judicial Council Personal Injuries Guidelines (the "Book of Quantum"). Your solicitor will advise you whether to accept or reject the IRB's assessment and award.
Settlement Negotiations or Court Proceedings
If the IRB assessment is rejected or is not suitable, your solicitor will pursue settlement through direct negotiation with the defendant's insurers. If a fair settlement cannot be reached, court proceedings will be issued and pursued aggressively on your behalf.
Compensation Awarded
Once your case is settled or decided by a court, your compensation award is made. After deduction of agreed legal fees (and any ATE insurance premium), the net compensation is paid directly to you.
What Is Considered a Personal Injury Case in Ireland?
A personal injury case in Ireland involves a physical, psychological, or emotional injury suffered by a person as a result of another party's negligence, carelessness, or breach of duty. To have a valid personal injury claim, you generally must be able to show:
- The other party owed you a Duty of Care
- That duty was breached through negligence or carelessness
- You suffered injury as a direct result of that breach
- You have suffered losses (physical, financial, psychological) as a result
Types of Personal Injury Claims We Handle
π Road Traffic Accidents
Car crashes, motorcycle accidents, cyclist collisions, and pedestrian knockdowns. See Car Accident Claims β
ποΈ Slips, Trips and Falls
Public pavement injuries, supermarket accidents, restaurant or bar accidents, and property owner negligence claims.
β οΈ Workplace Injuries
Employer negligence, unsafe working conditions, manual handling injuries, and construction site accidents.
βοΈ Holiday Accidents
Accidents abroad at hotels, resorts, or on package holidays. Claims against tour operators or accommodation providers.
π₯ Medical Negligence
Misdiagnosis, surgical errors, prescription errors, and GP negligence. See Medical Negligence β
π² Cycling & Pedestrian Accidents
Injuries sustained by cyclists or pedestrians caused by negligent drivers or poorly maintained roads.
What Is the Average Award for a Personal Injury Claim from PIAB?
Compensation awards in Ireland are guided by the Judicial Council Personal Injuries Guidelines (formerly the Book of Quantum). The amount of compensation depends on the nature and severity of the injury, the duration and impact of the injury, and any special damages (loss of earnings, medical expenses, travel costs, etc.).
| Injury Type | Approximate General Damages Range |
|---|---|
| Minor whiplash (full recovery under 1 year) | β¬8,200 β β¬14,000 |
| Moderate soft tissue injury | β¬20,000 β β¬35,000 |
| Serious shoulder or back injury | β¬45,000 β β¬80,000 |
| Psychological injury / PTSD | β¬18,000 β β¬50,000 |
| Serious / catastrophic injury | β¬100,000 β β¬1,000,000+ |
| Medical negligence claims | Varies significantly β often β¬100,000+ |
Note: All figures are indicative only. The actual value of your claim depends entirely on your specific injuries, circumstances, and evidence. Contact us for a personalised assessment.
What Are the Legal Fees and Costs?
Gary Matthews Solicitors β Injury Law operates on a No Win No Fee* basis for personal injury claims. This means:
- No upfront legal fees are required from you
- If your claim is unsuccessful, you pay nothing to your solicitor
- If your claim is successful, legal fees are deducted from your compensation award
- All fee arrangements are clearly disclosed and agreed in writing at the outset
- We will always explain the Book of Quantum and the potential value of your case in full
Personal Injury Claims and the Statute of Limitations
In Ireland, you have two years from the date of your accident to make a personal injury claim. This is known as the Statute of Limitations. Missing this deadline means you will generally lose your right to claim β regardless of how serious your injuries are.
Exceptions exist for minors (time runs from their 18th birthday), cases of delayed discovery, or situations involving incapacity. However, do not rely on these exceptions β contact us as soon as possible after your accident to ensure your claim is fully protected.
For the comprehensive guide to personal injury claims in Ireland, visit: Personal Injury Claims Solicitors β Full Guide