A life-changing injury or accident is typically one that significantly impacts a person’s physical, emotional, or cognitive functioning, often leading to long-term or permanent disability. These injuries can vary widely in their severity and effects. Essentially, any injury that dramatically alters a person’s ability to perform daily activities, pursue their usual occupation, or engage in relationships and social activities could be considered life changing. 

Our specialist team of personal injury solicitors at Beacon Law understand how distressing suffering a life changing injury can be for both the victim and their family. We work hard to relieve some of the stress during this difficult time and advocate for our client’s best interests throughout the entire process.

If you would like more information on our personal injury services or some expert legal advice regarding your potential compensation claim then please do not hesitate to get in touch with us today to speak to a member of our team. 

What is classed as a life changing injury?

Some examples of life changing serious injuries include:

• Spinal cord injuries leading to paralysis or loss of sensation.
• Traumatic brain injuries causing cognitive impairment, memory loss, or changes in personality.
• Loss of limbs or permanent disfigurement.
• Severe burns resulting in permanent scarring and physical limitations.
• Injuries causing chronic pain or limitations in mobility.
• Vision or hearing loss.

Examples of accidents that occur that lead to life changing injuries

Accidents resulting in life-changing injuries can occur in various settings and circumstances. Here are some examples:

1. Road Traffic Accidents: Collisions involving cars, trucks, motorcycles, bicycles, or pedestrians can result in severe injuries such as traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, amputations, fractures, and internal organ damage.
2. Falls: Falls from heights, such as ladders, scaffolding, stairs, or uneven surfaces, can lead to severe injuries, including traumatic brain injuries, spinal injuries, fractures, and internal injuries.
3. Accidents at Work: Industrial accidents, construction site accidents, and incidents involving heavy machinery or equipment can cause severe injuries, including crush injuries, traumatic amputations, burns, and chemical exposures.
4. Sports and Recreational Accidents: High-impact sports, such as football, rugby, or skiing, can result in traumatic injuries such as concussions, spinal cord injuries, fractures, and ligament tears.
5. Water Accidents: Drowning incidents, boating accidents, or diving accidents can lead to severe injuries, including traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, and near-drowning injuries with long-term neurological consequences.
6. Pedestrian Accidents: Being struck by a vehicle while walking or crossing the street can cause severe injuries such as traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, fractures, and soft tissue injuries.
7. Workplace Falls: Slips, trips, and falls in the workplace can result in serious injuries, especially in industries such as construction, manufacturing, or healthcare, where workers may be exposed to hazards such as wet floors, uneven surfaces, or cluttered work areas.
8. Electrical Accidents: Accidents involving electrical shocks or electrocution can cause severe burns, cardiac injuries, neurological damage, and other life-threatening injuries.
9. Violent Assaults: Physical assaults, shootings, stabbings, or other acts of violence can lead to life-threatening injuries, including traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, fractures, and internal organ damage.

These examples illustrate the diverse range of accidents that can lead to life-changing injuries, highlighting the importance of prevention, safety measures, and prompt medical treatment to minimize the risk of serious harm.

What is the claims process?

During your initial consultation, our personal injury lawyers will provide you with advice about proceeding with your claim and inform you about the relevant limitation rules.

Our injury lawyers will then ask you for details about your accident and the injuries suffered as a result. This will help our injury lawyers to assess the likelihood of your claim being successful. Examples of the relevant information that our lawyers may ask for include the location, time, and date of the accident, the nature of the injuries suffered, details of witnesses who may have witnessed the incident, details of the defendant, and the circumstances surrounding the accident.

During these initial stages of your claim, it is vital that you gather the relevant evidence to support your claim for compensation. Relevant evidence may include CCTV footage of the incident, medical records, photographs of your injuries, and witness statements.

The defendant will then be notified about your claim, after which point they will need to decide whether they accept liability for your injuries. If the defendant accepts liability, negotiations for a settlement fee can commence. If the defendant denies their liability, court proceedings may follow.

How much could your life changing injury claim be worth?

Generally, the more severe an injury, the higher the amount of compensation you could receive. 

The amount of compensation awarded will be split into two sections: general damages and special damages. General damages refers to the compensation payment you will receive for the pain and suffering you sustained as a result of your injuries.

The amount of general damages compensation you receive will depend on the severity and impact of your injuries. The amount of time it will take for you to recover from your injuries will also be taken into consideration.

Special damages refer to any additional financial losses incurred. This can include care and assistance, travel expenses, time off work, loss of earnings and treatment costs.

What is the time limit for making a life changing injury claim?

The time limit for making a personal injury claim, including claims for life-changing injuries, is generally three years from the date of the accident or injury. This is outlined in the Limitation Act 1980. However, there are some exceptions to this rule:

1. Date of Knowledge: If the injury’s full extent or severity is not immediately apparent, such as in medical negligence cases, the three-year time limit may start from the date the individual becomes aware of their injury and its connection to the accident.
2. Minors: For individuals who were under the age of 18 at the time of the accident, the three-year time limit begins on their 18th birthday. In other words, they have until their 21st birthday to bring a claim.
3. Mental Capacity: If the injured person lacks the mental capacity to make a claim, there is no time limit for bringing a claim. The time limit would start once they regain mental capacity.
4. Fatal Injuries: In cases where the accident results in a fatality, the family or representatives of the deceased typically have three years from the date of death to bring a claim.
5. Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) Claims: Different time limits may apply for claims made through the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority, which compensates victims of violent crimes in the UK.

It’s essential to seek legal advice promptly if you’re considering making a personal injury claim for a life changing injury in the UK to ensure you understand the specific time limits and requirements that apply to your case. Waiting too long to pursue a claim can result in the loss of your right to seek the compensation you deserve. 

How can Beacon Law assist?

A life changing injury can have devastating consequences for you and your family. It is, therefore, essential that you have a life changing injury solicitor pn your side to represent you and your needs.

At Beacon Law, we are injury specialist lawyers dealing daily with personal injury cases, including life changing injury cases. We are a leading firm of personal injury lawyers and are regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority.

We will work closely with you and within the instructions you provide. We will aim to support you through a time that is already difficult for you and provide the best case management possible through the complex legal proceedings which you may face in a complicated serious injury claim.

If you require legal advice on a potential case or assistance, please contact us on 0330 1332 857. Alternatively, you are welcome to contact us online using our form, and an expert will contact you to discuss your queries and case.