Road Traffic Accidents in Scotland

How To Claim Compensation After a Traffic Collision

While the number of fatalities in road collisions in Scotland has dropped, there has been a rise in the overall number of casualties in road traffic accidents in Scotland. In a report from Transport Scotland, the number of casualties increased in 2023 to nearly 6,000.

Another concern has been a rise in traffic accidents caused by visitors who were not used to driving on the left. This as tourism travel to Scotland has increased due to the vibrant culture, history and spectacular landscaped drawing millions of visitors every year. This may be due to right hand driving laws in many European countries and in the United States.

Common injuries in road collisions in Scotland may range from serious head injuries to whiplash and soft tissue injuries. So, if you or a loved one has been injured in a collision, you may want to find out more about claiming compensation. If the accident was not your fault, you may be eligible to file a personal injury claim.

Jefferies Claims may be able to help. We work with lawyers who operate on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis.

Different Types of Road Traffic Accidents in Scotland

Rear-End Collisions: These occur when a vehicle crashes into the one in front of it. Often caused by distracted driving, speeding, or sudden braking, rear-end collisions are one of the most frequent types of accidents on the road.

Head-On Collisions: These are particularly dangerous and may result in severe injuries or fatalities. They typically occur due to driver fatigue, impaired driving, or overtaking errors.

Side-Impact Collisions (T-Bone Accidents): These happen when one vehicle hits the side of another. Common at junctions and roundabouts, they can result in significant injuries, especially to passengers on the impacted side.

Pedestrian and Cyclist Accidents: Vulnerable road users such as pedestrians and cyclists often suffer severe injuries in accidents. These types of accidents tend to occur due to drivers failing to see them or not giving them the right of way.

Common Injuries Sustained in Collision

Whiplash and Soft Tissue Injuries: These are the most common injuries in rear-end collisions, resulting from the sudden jerking of the head and neck.
Fractures and Broken Bones: High-impact accidents can easily result in broken arms, legs, ribs, or even facial bones.
Head Injuries and Concussions: Even minor head impacts can cause concussions, while more severe accidents can lead to traumatic brain injuries.
Spinal Injuries: Damage to the spine can result in serious injury and even long-term disability or paralysis.
Cuts and Lacerations: Shattered glass and metal can cause serious cuts which may lead to significant blood loss or infection.

Immediate Steps to Take After a Road Traffic Accident

If you are involved in a road traffic accident in Scotland and it was not your fault, it is crucial to follow these steps to protect your right to file a personal injury claim:

Ensure Safety: Move to a safe location if possible and check for injuries. Call emergency services if anyone is hurt.

Contact the Police: Always report the accident to the police, especially if there are injuries or significant damage.

Gather Evidence: Collect names, contact information, insurance details of other parties involved, and contact information of any witnesses. Take photographs of the scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries.

Seek Medical Attention: Visit a healthcare professional even if your injuries seem minor. Medical reports are essential evidence for your claim.

Notify Your Insurance Provider: Inform your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible.

How to File a Personal Injury Claim in Scotland

When the accident was not your fault, you are entitled to pursue a personal injury claim. This may typically include compensation for your injuries, medical expenses, loss of earnings, and pain and suffering. Here’s how to proceed:

It is essential to consult with an experienced personal injury lawyer in this field who understands the complex legal process. At Jefferies Claims, we work with lawyers who will assess all aspects of your case and who operate on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis. Here is an easy guideline as to what to expect when making a personal injury claim:

Establish Liability: Your solicitor will investigate the accident, gather evidence, and work with experts if necessary to prove that the other party was at fault.

Medical Assessment: You may be required to undergo a medical examination to assess the extent of your injuries and the long-term impact on your health and livelihood.

Calculate Compensation: Your solicitor will calculate a fair compensation amount that generally covers:

Medical expenses
Lost income
Rehabilitation costs
Pain and suffering
Future financial losses
Any necessary home adaptations

Submit the Claim: Your solicitor will submit the claim to the responsible party’s insurance company. Most claims are settled out of court, but if necessary, your solicitor can initiate court proceedings.

Negotiation and Settlement: The insurance company may negotiate the settlement amount. Your solicitor will ensure that you receive the maximum compensation you are entitled to.

Time Limits for Filing a Personal Injury Claim

In Scotland, there is generally a three-year time limit from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. Exceptions may apply for minors or individuals who lack mental capacity.

Get In Touch

Contact Jefferies Claims today at 0333 358 3034. Alternatively, complete our online contact form to arrange an initial no-obligation telephone consultation with a member of our expert team.