What Is Loss of Amenity Compensation?

Personal Injury Claims and Losing Quality of Life

 When you suffer a personal injury, your loss of amenity is considered, with many asking the question – so what is loss of amenity compensation? Basically, it is a diminished quality of life beyond your physical injuries and financial losses.

Loss of amenity is considered as a critical part of your personal injury compensation. It reflects the genuine human impact of injuries. This includes how your ability to enjoy life, connect with others, and live independently has been reduced.

Having a good understanding of loss of amenity allows you to:

• Accurately assess your potential compensation
• Gather the correct evidence to support your claim
• Ensure you file within the legal time limits

If you believe you’ve experienced a loss of amenity due to an accident that wasn’t your fault, you may want to find out more about starting a personal injury claim for compensation.

Jefferies Claims may be able to help as we work with experienced lawyers who operate on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis and can assess whether your case is valid.

What Does Loss of Amenity Mean?

Loss of amenity refers to the reduction or complete loss of the ability to enjoy activities and aspects of life that you could do prior to an accident. This includes hobbies, sports, work, and even simple pleasures such as walking your dog or playing with your children.

When calculating general damages in personal injury claims, the following is assessed:

• Pain and suffering
• Loss of amenity

These elements are grouped together under losses that don’t have a specific financial cost but impact your life in meaningful ways.

There are also Special Damages regarding compensation. This includes aspects related to financial losses, for example lost wages, medical expenses and travel to medical appointment.

Injuries That Could Lead to Loss of Amenity

There is a wide range of physical and psychological injuries that may be considered in a loss of amenity. Some common examples include:

1. Spinal Injuries

• May result in paralysis or restricted movement
• Affects walking, sports, driving, and physical intimacy

2. Brain Injuries

• Can impair memory, speech, or emotional regulation
• Reduces ability to socialise, work, or manage daily tasks

3. Orthopaedic Injuries

• Broken bones, joint damage, or torn ligaments
• Limits mobility and physical activity

4. Amputations

• Permanent loss of limbs hugely impacts independence

5. Chronic Pain Conditions

• Long-term conditions like Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS)
• Affect daily life and mental wellbeing

6. Psychological Injuries

• PTSD, anxiety, or depression following a traumatic event
• Restricts social interaction, travel, and employment

Common Accidents Which May Result in Loss of Amenity

Various types of accidents can cause injuries leading to a loss of amenity. In personal injury claims, the most frequent causes may include:

1. Road Traffic Accidents (RTAs)

• Involving drivers, passengers, cyclists, and pedestrians

2. Workplace Accidents

• Due to poor training, lack of PPE, or unsafe practices

3. Slips, Trips and Falls

• Occur in public spaces, private premises, or workplaces

4. Medical Negligence

• Misdiagnosis, surgical errors, or birth injuries

5. Sporting Accidents

• Injuries sustained due to faulty equipment or poor supervision

In all these cases, victims may lose the ability to enjoy aspects of their former lifestyle.

Examples of Loss of Amenity in Real Life

Let’s look at some real scenarios as to what may qualify as a loss of amenity:

• A former footballer suffers a knee injury in a car accident and can no longer play sports.
• A keen gardener develops chronic back pain after a workplace fall and can no longer tend their garden.
• A young mother sustains a shoulder injury in a cycling accident and can’t lift her child comfortably.
• A musician develops nerve damage in their hand following surgical negligence and can no longer play an instrument.

These examples demonstrate how an injury can impact quality of life, not just physical capability or financial loss.

What Evidence Supports a Loss of Amenity Claim?

To successfully claim for loss of amenity, you must provide compelling evidence to show how your injuries have affected your life. Some of the following can help to strengthen your case:

1. Medical Reports

• From GPs, specialists, or physiotherapists
• Outline the nature and extent of your injuries
• Include prognosis and impact on daily living

2. Witness Statements

• From friends, family, or colleagues
• Describe any changes in your daily activity and mood

3. Photographic and Video Evidence

• “Before and after” visuals showing your involvement in activities pre-injury and post-injury limitations

4. Personal Diary

• Keep a written record of your pain levels, activities attempted, and emotional struggles

5. Expert Reports

• Occupational therapists or rehabilitation specialists may be called to assess lifestyle impact

These documents build a picture of how much your life has changed, enabling a more accurate valuation of general damages for loss of amenity.

How Is Loss of Amenity Calculated?

Loss of amenity forms part of your general damages and considers:

• Severity and duration of the injury
• The age of the claimant
• Impact on employment and hobbies
• Psychological effect

Compensation for loss of amenity can vary significantly. Your personal injury lawyer will advise on what your potential compensation may be.

How Long Do You Have to Start a Personal Injury Claim

The general time limit for starting a personal injury claim is three years from the date of the accident or from when you became aware of the injury and its cause.

Exceptions:

• Children: The time limit starts on their 18th birthday, giving them until age 21
• Mental incapacity: If the person lacks capacity, there is no time limit until they regain it
• Fatal claims: The family has three years from the date of death (or post-mortem findings)

It’s always advisable to seek legal advice as early as possible to avoid missing deadlines and to secure the best evidence for your claim.

‘No Win, No Fee’ Claims

If you believe you’ve experienced a loss of amenity due to an accident that wasn’t your fault, get in touch with us. We partner with highly experienced lawyers who offer a ‘No Win, No Fee’ agreement. This means you will only pay fees if your case is successful.

Reaching out to a trusted claims company can make a significant difference. At Jefferies Claims, will ensure you receive all the support you need. Call us at 0333 358 3034 or visit Jefferies Claims Contact Page to learn more.