FAQ’s
Your Questions Answered
Why Use Attwaters?
Because we understand that your case is unique to you. We have the expertise and the experience to ensure you will receive the compensation you deserve. You will have a dedicated lawyer who will ensure your case is resolved sympathetically, speedily and efficiently. You will be kept up to speed on what is happening throughout. You will be able to contact your lawyer or any member of the team at any time during the working day. We offer a genuine no win no fee service where you will receive 100% of the compensation you are awarded. At Attwaters you’ll receive genuinely expert, specialist advice. We have personal injury lawyers who are on the Law Society Personal Injury Accreditation Scheme.
Will I have to visit your office?
We act for clients throughout the United Kingdom. All consultations can be carried out by phone, email or letter whatever suits you best. We also have agents all over the country so we can arrange to visit you in your home or at your place of work. Do not choose a solicitor based on geographical location, choose your solicitor based on expertise and the ability to achieve the right result.
Do I Have To Pay?
There are various ways of funding your case and we will discuss what the best option is for you.
We do offer a genuine no win no fee agreement and if you choose this type of funding agreement you should have nothing to pay. When we win the case, we get paid by the defendant and you receive 100% of your compensation. If the case is unsuccessful we do not get paid, and we will arrange for an insurance policy to be in place to pay the defendants costs should you be required to do so. You will not be asked to fund the insurance policy. If there is ever a situation in which you may be required to pay anything, you will be advised of that possibility well in advance so that you can avoid it arising, should you wish to do so.
What is my claim worth?
Every claim for compensation is assessed individually and quantified according to the specific facts of the case. There is no set tariff for compensation, except in cases that proceed through the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority. Compensation is split into two categories:-
1. General Damages
Compensation for pain suffering and loss of amenity. There is no set amount but factors that will be taken into account include:
• the degree of pain and suffering
• the length of time the pain and suffering lasts
• whether you will make a full recovery
• whether the symptoms are permanent
• the treatment required
• your age
• whether the injury/illness has exacerbated or accelerated another illness or condition
• how the injury/illness affects the things you do on a daily basis, at work, at home, socially, and personally.
To assess how much your injury is worth we will look at the guidelines that have been set and the awards that have been made in previous similar cases.
2. Special Damages
This is an award to compensate you for any expense and loss you have suffered as a result of the injury/illness. It will include expenses or losses that you incur from the date of the accident until the conclusion of the case, as well as losses or expenses that you will incur in the future.
For example:
• Loss of earnings
• Pension loss
• Medical expenses
• Cost of care
• Transport costs
• Aids and equipment
• Accommodation costs
Do I Pay Tax On My Compensation?
Compensation payments are not subject to tax. You will however have to pay tax on any interest earned if the compensation is invested.
How Long Will My Case Take?
It is impossible to give an accurate time estimate as each case is different. There are two factors which will affect the length of time the case will take; firstly, whether liability is disputed and secondly, the severity of your injuries. It will not be possible to conclude your case until the defendant accepts or is found responsible for causing the accident. It is also not advisable to conclude your case until we know whether your injury will continue to affect you in the future. As a rough guide, if liability is accepted and your injuries are straightforward, your case could be concluded in between 12 to 18 months. We will advise you on the time scales as the matter proceeds and more information is available.
Will I Need To Go To Court?
Most cases settle through negotiation. It is only about 10% of cases that go to court and many of those are settled at court before the hearing begins. If you do have to attend court, we will guide you and support you throughout, and you will be represented by a specialist solicitor or barrister at the hearing.
Will I Lose My Job If I Sue My Employer?
It is illegal for your employer to sack you because you make a claim against them. Your employer should be insured and their insurance company will handle the claim and pay the compensation.
If you think your job will be threatened if you make a claim you should contact our Employment Department immediately.
What Information Will You Want?
Detailed Description of what happened
It is always a good idea to make a written record of how the exposure happened as soon as possible after the event, when it is still fresh in your mind. Describe as much as possible. It’s better to have too much information than too little. Date, time and location are vitally important.
Details of the Responsible Parties
Preferably the full name and address of the responsible party.
Witnesses Details
Try to get the full name and address of any witnesses to the accident. Even if they didn’t actually see what happened, they may have important information that can help your case.
Receipts and Expenses
Make a note of all your expenses as you go along and retain receipts. Keep a record of your medical appointments and if you travel by car, make a note of the mileage and parking fees. If you go by bus or taxi, keep the receipt. For more information see What is my Claim Worth?
Will I Have A Barrister?
A barrister who specialises in Personal Injury law will sometimes be part of your legal team. They are usually involved in high value cases or cases where there are complicated legal or medical issues. They will usually advise in writing, but sometimes they will want to meet with you. A barrister will also be instructed to represent you if your case goes to trial, as they are specialists in advocacy.
Are You A Claims Management Company?
No. We are a firm of Solicitors. We are professionally qualified and are subject to strict regulatory standards set by the Solicitors Regulation Authority. We are accredited by the Association of Personal Injury Lawyers (APIL). Our lawyers are members of APIL, and some have individual accreditation with APIL. We also have individuals who are members of the Law Society Personal Injury Accreditation Scheme.
Membership of APIL and the Personal Injury Accreditation Scheme is a quality mark demonstrating a high standard of expertise in Personal Injury law.
What Do I Do Next?
Do not delay. For free advice contact our New Enquiries Team today, by phone or using the online claim form below.
All information is treated with the utmost confidentiality. Call us now: 01279 638803 or fill in the Online Claim Form.