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Road Traffic Accident Claims in Aberdeen
Road Traffic Accident Claims in Aberdeen
What You Need to Know
Road traffic accident claims in Aberdeen, as in any other city, may include drivers, passengers, cyclists, motorcyclists and pedestrians. While overall safety on the roads has improved over the years, accidents can still happen. Unfortunately, these often result in physical injuries, emotional trauma and financial losses.
Road accidents may happen in bad weather, due to speeding or distracted driving, driving under the influence, or because of poor signage or dangerous road layouts. So, if you’ve been injured in a road traffic accident because of someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation through a personal injury claim.
We work with solicitors in Aberdeen who are highly experienced in Road Traffic Accident Claims and who can review your case to help you get the compensation you deserve.
Who Can Make a Personal Injury Claim After a Road Accident?
Anyone who is injured on the road due to someone else’s fault can potentially file a claim for compensation. This includes:
| Claimant Type | Example Scenarios |
| Drivers | Hit by another vehicle, injured due to a road defect, etc. |
| Passengers | Injured in a taxi, bus, or private vehicle crash. |
| Pedestrians | Hit at a crossing, pavement, or road while walking. |
| Cyclists | Doored by a parked car, hit by a vehicle, or fell due to a pothole. |
| Motorcyclists | Involved in high-speed collisions or affected by road hazards. |
| E-scooter users | Involved in a collision or injured due to road surface issues. |
| Dependants of deceased individuals | If a fatal accident occurs, close relatives may claim. |
When Can You File a Personal Injury Claim?
In Scotland, personal injury claims must generally be made within three years of the accident. The clock usually starts on the day of the accident or from the date you became aware your injury was related to it (known as the “date of knowledge”).
Exceptions include:
- Children: For individuals under 16, the limitation period starts on their 16th birthday, meaning they typically have until age 19 to file a claim.
- Individuals lacking mental capacity: The limitation period is paused while the person lacks capacity.
If you do not start court proceedings or settle your claim within the three-year window, it may be “time-barred,” meaning you cannot pursue it unless a court allows an exception.
What Evidence Do You Need?
To make a successful claim, you must be able to prove that another party was at fault and your injuries were directly caused by the accident. Useful evidence includes:
- Police reports or incident numbers.
- Medical records (e.g., A&E discharge summary, GP notes).
- Dashcam or helmet camera footage.
- Witness statements.
- CCTV footage from local businesses or authorities.
- Photographs of the accident scene, vehicle damage, or visible injuries.
How Does the Claims Process Work?
Here’s a typical timeline of a personal injury claim following a road accident:
Seek medical help immediately and report the accident to the police if necessary.
Consult our solicitors as we offer free initial consultations and work on a “no win, no fee” basis.
Intimation of claim. Your solicitor will send a letter to the at-fault party’s insurer to begin the claims process.
Insurer response. The insurer usually has to investigate and respond within a prescribed time limit.
Medical assessment. You may need to undergo an independent medical examination to assess your injuries.
Settlement negotiations. Your solicitor and the insurer may negotiate a settlement. Most cases are settled without going to court. If a fair settlement cannot be reached, your solicitor may start court action.
What Can You Claim For?
Whether your injury is whiplash or a serious fracture, compensation is typically split into two categories:
General damages: For pain, suffering, and loss of enjoyment of life.
Special damages: For financial losses such as:
- Medical expenses
- Lost earnings (past and future)
- Travel costs
- Care or assistance
- Property damage (e.g., bike or helmet replacement)
Get in Touch
If you’ve been involved in an accident which wasn’t your fault, you may want to seek compensation for your injuries. Here are some key tips:
Act quickly. In Scotland, you usually have three years to file a claim, but the sooner you act, the better your chances.
Gather strong evidence. Clear, early documentation helps prove fault and injury.
Anyone can claim. Drivers, passengers, cyclists, pedestrians, and others are all eligible if they were injured due to another’s negligence.
You don’t need to go to court. Most personal injury claims are settled without a trial.
Legal advice is crucial. A specialist personal injury solicitor can guide you through the process and ensure you receive fair compensation.
Our team at First Personal Injury can guide you through the process to get the compensation you deserve. We work with highly experienced Aberdeen lawyers who work on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis. Call us at 0333 358 2345 or contact us online for a free consultation.