Categories
Personal Injury

Why Should I Hire A Personal Injury Solicitor?

January 2024

Suffering a personal injury can be a life-changing experience. Whether you were injured in a car accident, a workplace incident, or another type of accident that was not your fault, you may be unsure whether you need a personal injury solicitor.

In most cases, the answer is yes. A specialist solicitor can protect your rights, handle the legal process, and help you secure the compensation you deserve.

Expertise in Personal Injury Law

Personal injury solicitors specialise in this area of law. As a result, they have a deep understanding of the legal rules, case law, and procedures that apply to personal injury claims.

Because of this expertise, a solicitor can:

  • Identify the strengths of your claim
  • Avoid common mistakes
  • Improve your chances of a successful outcome

Maximising Your Compensation

One of the key reasons to instruct a personal injury solicitor is to maximise your compensation. A solicitor will assess the true value of your claim, not just the immediate costs.

This includes:

  • Medical expenses and rehabilitation
  • Loss of earnings and future income
  • Pain, suffering, and emotional distress
  • Any long-term or future care needs

Without expert advice, you may accept less than you are entitled to.

Guidance Through the Legal Process

Personal injury claims can be complex and time-consuming. They often involve:

  • Detailed paperwork
  • Communication with insurance companies
  • Negotiations or court proceedings

A solicitor will guide you through every stage of the process. Importantly, they will ensure all documents are filed correctly and deadlines are met.

Investigation and Evidence Gathering

Strong evidence is essential in any personal injury claim. Therefore, your solicitor will carry out a thorough investigation to prove liability.

This may involve:

  • Gathering witness statements
  • Reviewing medical records
  • Obtaining expert medical or accident reports

Together, this evidence helps build a strong and persuasive case.

Skilled Negotiation with Insurers

Insurance companies often try to reduce the amount they pay in compensation. However, personal injury solicitors are experienced negotiators.

They know how to:

  • Challenge low settlement offers
  • Present evidence effectively
  • Push for a fair and reasonable outcome

If necessary, they will also take your case to court.

Experience with All Types of Injuries

Personal injury solicitors handle a wide range of cases, from minor injuries to serious and catastrophic injuries. As a result, they understand the different challenges each case presents and how injuries can affect your future.

Meeting the Time Limit for Claims

In the UK, personal injury claims are usually subject to a three-year time limit. Missing this deadline can mean losing your right to compensation.

A solicitor will ensure your claim is started within the correct timeframe and complies with all legal requirements.

Focus on Your Recovery

Finally, dealing with a personal injury can be physically and emotionally demanding. By instructing a solicitor, you can focus on your recovery while they handle the legal work.

This reduces stress and allows you to prioritise your health and well-being.

How NJS Law Can Help

If you have been injured in an accident that was not your fault, NJS Law can help you claim the compensation you deserve.

We are personal injury claims specialists, offering:

  • Clear, honest, and practical legal advice
  • A supportive and experienced legal team
  • Guidance throughout the entire claims process

At NJS Law, we make a complex process easier to manage and ensure you are never facing it alone.

Contact NJS Law today to discuss your personal injury claim and take the first step towards securing the compensation you deserve.

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Categories
Personal Injury

What Are The Different Types Of Personal Injury?

January 2024

Personal injuries can happen to anyone and at any time. When they do, it is important to understand the different types of personal injury claims and when you may be entitled to compensation.

If your injury was caused by someone else’s negligence, you may have the right to make a claim. Below, we outline some of the most common personal injury claims in the UK.

Road Traffic and Pedestrian Accident Claims

Road traffic accidents are one of the most common causes of personal injury claims. Whether you were a driver, passenger, pedestrian, cyclist, or motorcyclist, you may be able to claim compensation if another road user caused the accident.

These claims can involve:

  • Car accidents
  • Motorcycle and bicycle accidents
  • Pedestrian collisions
  • Accidents on buses or other public transport

Workplace Accident Claims

Workplace accidents are another frequent source of personal injury claims. Employers have a legal duty to provide a safe working environment. When they fail to do so and an employee is injured, a compensation claim may be appropriate.

Common workplace injury claims include:

  • Slips, trips, and falls
  • Injuries caused by faulty or unsafe equipment
  • Manual handling injuries
  • Exposure to hazardous substances

Public Liability and Occupiers’ Liability Claims

Public liability claims arise when someone is injured on public or private property due to unsafe conditions. Property owners and occupiers must take reasonable steps to keep visitors safe.

These claims often involve:

  • Slips and trips in shops or supermarkets
  • Accidents in restaurants, pubs, or leisure venues
  • Injuries in public spaces or car parks
  • Accidents on privately owned property

Serious Injury Claims

Serious injury claims involve life-changing injuries that have a long-term impact on a person’s health, independence, and finances.

Examples of serious injuries include:

  • Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
  • Spinal cord injuries
  • Amputations
  • Multiple or complex fractures

These cases often require specialist legal support due to their complexity and long-term consequences.

Animal Injury Claims

You may also be entitled to compensation if you have been injured by an animal. Most animal injury claims involve:

  • Dog attacks
  • Injuries caused by horses
  • Accidents involving livestock, such as cows

In many cases, the animal owner may be held legally responsible.

Get Expert Legal Advice

Understanding the different types of personal injury claims is essential if you have suffered harm due to someone else’s negligence. Taking early legal advice can help protect your rights and strengthen your claim.

A qualified personal injury solicitor can

  • Assess the strength of your case
  • Explain your legal options
  • Guide you through the claims process

How NJS Law Can Help

If you have been injured in an accident that was not your fault, NJS Law can help you claim the compensation you deserve.

We are personal injury claims specialists who provide:

  • Clear, honest, and practical advice
  • Support throughout the entire claims process
  • A professional and client-focused service

At NJS Law, we make the process easier to manage, so you can focus on your recovery.

Contact NJS Law today to discuss your personal injury claim and take the first step towards securing the compensation you deserve.

CONTACT US

Get in touch using the form below or via the following methods:

Ask NJS Law

For fast, friendly affordable legal advice. Contact a member of our team today.

FAQ

For any questions we may be able to answer, discover our FAQ section.

Categories
Accident at Work

What Is The Most Common Worksite Personal Injury Claims?

January 2024

Workplace safety is a top priority for both employers and employees. However, even with strong safety procedures in place, accidents at work can still happen. When an employee suffers an injury due to employer negligence, they may be entitled to make a workplace personal injury claim.

Below are the most common types of workplace injuries and how a specialist Personal Injury Solicitor can help you secure compensation.

1. Slips, Trips, and Falls

Slips, trips, and falls are among the most frequent causes of workplace accidents. These incidents often occur due to:

  • Wet or slippery surfaces
  • Uneven flooring
  • Poor lighting
  • Cluttered walkways
  • Lack of maintenance

Employers must keep work areas hazard-free and implement regular safety checks to reduce these risks.

2. Manual Handling and Lifting Injuries

Many employees suffer manual handling injuries, especially to the back, shoulders, and arms. These injuries typically occur when lifting heavy items without:

  • Proper manual handling training
  • Correct lifting techniques
  • Suitable equipment

Employers must provide both training and equipment to minimise the risk of musculoskeletal injuries.

3. Machinery and Equipment Accidents

Accidents involving machinery can cause severe or even life-changing injuries. These incidents often result from:

  • Inadequate training
  • Improper machinery use
  • Faulty or poorly maintained equipment

Employers must ensure machinery is safe, regularly serviced, and used only by trained staff.

4. Falls From Height

Falls from height are common in construction, warehousing, roofing, and other elevated work environments. Serious accidents can occur when employers fail to provide:

  • Guardrails
  • Safety harnesses
  • Secure platforms
  • Proper supervision

Working at height requires strict compliance with safety regulations to prevent catastrophic injuries.

Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSI)

Repetitive Strain Injuries develop from performing the same motion repeatedly over time.

Common RSI’s include:

  • Carpal tunnel syndrome
  • Tendonitis
  • Chronic muscle strain

Employers should implement ergonomic adjustments, regular breaks, and workstation assessments to help prevent to help prevent RSIs

6. Electrical Accidents

Electric shocks, burns, and electrical fires can occur when:

  • Electrical system are poorly maintained
  • Safety procedures are ignored
  • Staff work near live electrical sources without proper training

Electrical work must always comply with industry safety standards.

7. Burns and Chemical Exposure

Employees working with chemicals or flammable materials may suffer:

  • Chemical burns
  • Thermal burns
  • Toxic inhalation
  • Skin irritation or poisoning

Employers must provide PPE, proper ventilation, and clear instructions on handling hazardous substances.

Your Employer's Duty of Care

Employers have a legal responsibility to ensure the health, safety and welfare of their employees. If your injury was caused by a failure to follow safety laws or implement proper procedures, you may be entitled to compensation.

How Our Personal Injury Solicitors Can Help

If you have suffered an injury at work, our specialist team can help you:

  • Claim compensation for your pain, suffering, and ongoing symptoms
  • Recover financial losses, including loss of earnings
  • Access rehabilitation and treatment
  • Build a strong case supported by expert medical evidence

With decades of combined experience handling workplace, public liability, and occupiers’ liability claims, we will guide you through every step of the process with care, expertise, and understanding.

Contact us today to discuss your workplace injury claim.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)

Can I claim for a workplace accident?

Yes. If your accident was caused by employer negligence – such as unsafe equipment, lack of training, or poor maintenance – you may be entitled to make a workplace injury compensation claim.

How long do I have to make a workplace injury claim?

In most cases, you have three years from the date of the accident to start your claim. Exceptions apply.

CONTACT US

Get in touch using the form below or via the following methods:

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FAQ

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Categories
Housing Disrepair

Compensation for Housing Disrepair: What Can Tenants Claim?

January 2024

Living with housing disrepair can be stressful and disruptive. Over time, unresolved issues may affect not only your comfort but also your health and overall well-being. Fortunately, the law provides tenants with protections to ensure landlords meet their legal duty to maintain properties in a safe and habitable condition.

Compensation for housing disrepair exists to offer financial redress for inconvenience, distress, and harm caused by poor property maintenance. The level of compensation available depends on several factors, including the severity of the disrepair, how long it has persisted, and the impact it has had on your daily life.

Below is an overview of what you may be able to claim in a housing disrepair case.

1. Ensuring Repairs Are Completed

First and foremost, a housing disrepair claim seeks to ensure that outstanding repairs are completed. After all, tenants have a legal right to live in a property that meets acceptable living standards.

Typically, claims involve issues such as:

  • Damp and mould
  • Persistent water leaks
  • Faulty electrical systems
  • Broken heating or plumbing
  • Structural defects

In many situations, once legal action begins, landlords finally take steps to address long-standing problems. Consequently, the property can be restored to a safe and suitable condition.

2. Compensation for Personal Injury or Health Problems

In addition to securing repairs, tenants may also be entitled to compensation where disrepair has caused injury or illness. For instance, prolonged exposure to damp and mould can worsen respiratory conditions. Likewise, unsafe flooring, loose fixtures, or structural defects may lead to slips, trips, or falls.

Furthermore, inadequate heating or insulation can contribute to wider health problems, particularly for vulnerable occupants. In such cases, medical evidence often plays a vital role in supporting a claim and demonstrating the link between the disrepair and the injury suffered.

3. Compensation for Living in Disrepair

Importantly, compensation is not limited to physical harm alone. Living in poor conditions can cause significant inconvenience, distress, and disruption to everyday life. Therefore, claims may also reflect the emotional impact of living in a property that is unsafe or uncomfortable.

For example, reduced enjoyment of your home, repeated disruption from unresolved issues, and the stress of continually reporting problems can all be taken into account. In addition, damage to personal belongings caused by leaks or damp may also form part of a claim.

How Much Compensation Can You Claim?

The amount of compensation awarded varies from case to case. Key considerations include:

  • The seriousness of the disrepair
  • How long the issues remained unresolved
  • The effect on your health and daily activities
  • The landlord’s response after being notified

To maximise your chances of a successful outcome, it is advisable to seek advice from a solicitor who specialises in housing disrepair claims. A legal professional can assess your situation, gather evidence, and ensure that the appropriate claims are pursued.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, housing disrepair should never be accepted as unavoidable. If poor living conditions have affected your health, comfort, or quality of life, you may be entitled to both essential repairs and financial compensation. With appropriate legal support, you can protect your rights and take meaningful steps towards restoring safe and suitable living conditions.

FIND OUT IF YOU ARE ELIGIBLE TO CLAIM FOR REPAIRS AND COMPENSATION

Average Compensation - £1,895
We work on a NO WIN NO FEE basis
to get your home put right and to get you compensated!

Ask NJS Law

For fast, friendly affordable legal advice. Contact a member of our team today.

FAQ

For any questions we may be able to answer, discover our FAQ section.

Categories
Damp & Mould Disrepair

Mould, Fungus, or Damp Claims

January 2024

Mouldfungusand damp in a rented property can seriously affect your health and well-being. For council or housing association tenants, understanding your legal rights and the steps you can take to resolve these issues is essential.

Ignoring these problems can worsen health issues and make properties unsafe. This guide explains your rights, landlord obligations, and how a housing disrepair solicitor can help you claim repairs and compensation.

Common Causes of Mould, Fungus, and Damp

Mould, fungus, and damp are widespread in UK homes and usually stem from:

  • Leaks or water ingress from roofs, pipes, or windows
  • Poor ventilation, causing condensation and damp air
  • Structural problems, such as cracks, damp walls, or damaged roofing

If left untreated, these issues can lead to respiratory illnessesallergiesand long-term health problems, particularly for vulnerable tenants like children or those with existing medical conditions.

Your Legal Rights as a Tenant

As a tenant, you are legally protected regarding the condition of your rented property. Councils and housing associations must provide homes that are:

  • Safe and habitable
  • Free from hazards
  • Fit for human habitation

You have the right to reportmouldfungusor damp to your landlord or housing association immediately. They are legally required to investigate and resolve the problem.

How to Document Mould, Fungus, and Damp Issues

Careful documentation is essential if you need to escalate a claim:

  • Take clear photos of affected areas
  • Keep a detailed record of all communications with your landlord or housing association
  • Note datestimesand any responses or promises made

This evidence can support a formal Housing Disrepair claim if repairs are delayed or ignored.

Landlord Responsibilities for Repairs

Landlords must:

  • Investigate the source of the damp
  • Carry out necessary structural or plumbing repairs
  • Provide effective remediation to remove mould and fungus
  • Ensure the property meets health and safety standards

Failure to act promptly can lead to legal consequences and compensation claims for tenants.

Compensation for Disrepair

If your landlord or housing association fails to fix mould or damp after being notified, you may be entitled to claim compensation. This can cover:

  • The period your property has been in disrepair
  • Health issues or stress caused by unsafe living conditions
  • Costs related to temporary relocation, if necessary.

How NJS Law Can Help

At NJS Law, we are housing disrepair claim specialists. Our experienced team assists tenants across England and Wales on a No Win No Fee basis. We can help you:

  • Instruct an expert surveyor to assess your property
  • Legally compel your landlord or council to complete repairs
  • Claim compensation for the period your home has been in disrepair

We provide supportiveexpert guidance throughout the claim process, taking the stress off your shoulders so you can focus on your health and well-being.

Call or email NJS Law today to discuss your mould, fungus, or damp claim.

FIND OUT IF YOU ARE ELIGIBLE TO CLAIM FOR REPAIRS AND COMPENSATION

Average Compensation - £1,895
We work on a NO WIN NO FEE basis
to get your home put right and to get you compensated!

Ask NJS Law

For fast, friendly affordable legal advice. Contact a member of our team today.

FAQ

For any questions we may be able to answer, discover our FAQ section.

Categories
Accident at Work

How To Secure Early Rehabilitation After A Workplace Injury

January 2024

Most people understand that a Personal Injury Solicitor can help secure financial compensation after an accident at work. However, their role extends far beyond negotiating a settlement. An experienced workplace injury lawyer will also use the Rehabilitation Code 2015 to work with your employer’s insurers, ensuring you receive early access to the rehabilitation services needed to support your recovery and rebuild your independence.

What Is Rehabilitation In Personal Injury Claims?

Restoring Your Health and Independence

In personal injury law, rehabilitation aims to help you return to your pre-accident physical and psychological condition as much as possible. When you suffer a workplace injury caused by employer negligence, it’s essential not only to receive compensation but also to address the long-term effects on your health, lifestyle, and ability to work.

Rehabilitation may include:

  • Medical treatment
  • Physiotherapy and physical rehabilitation
  • Counselling or psychological therapy
  • Occupational therapy
  • Assistive equipment and support services

The goal is to improve your quality of life and maximise your independence during and after your injury claim.

What Are the Rehabilitation Code 2015 and the Serious Injury Guide?

Early Intervention to Support Your Recovery

The Rehabilitation Code 2015 provides a framework that promotes early access to rehabilitation for people who have sustained significant or life-changing injuries. It encourages collaboration between insurers, employers, and your Personal Injury Solicitor to identify your rehabilitation needs quickly and release funds to support your recovery.

By focusing on cooperation rather than conflict, the Rehabilitation Code ensures that injured workers receive timely and appropriate support.

How the Serious Injury Guide Helps With Complex Claims

The Serious Injury Guide complements the Rehabilitation Code and provides additional guidance for claims involving severe or catastrophic injuries. It recognises that these cases require a more comprehensive approach to long-term recovery and compensation.

Key principles of the Serious Injury Guide include:

  • Identifying serious injuries and their potential long-term effects
  • Assessing physical, psychological, and financial impacts
  • Recognising the need for specialist, ongoing rehabilitation
  • Planning for future care needs, loss of earnings, and additional expenses

Together, these frameworks help ensure that seriously injured claimants receive the support, care, and financial security they need for the future.

How a Personal Injury Solicitor Secures Early Rehabilitation After a Workplace Accident

Starting the Rehabilitation Process

Once you instruct a Personal Injury Solicitor, they will assess your rehabilitation needs and send a formal Letter of Claim to the Defendant (usually your employer or their insurer).

This letter will include:

  • Your solicitor’s details
  • A summary of the workplace accident
  • The injuries you sustained
  • A request o begin collaborative rehabilitation under the Rehabilitation Code and Serious Injury Guide

Under the Code, the Defendant must respond within 21 days.

Immediate Needs Assessment (INA)

The first step usually involves appointing a Case Manager with a medical or occupational health background to conduct an Immediate Needs Assessment (INA). This assessment provides a detailed understanding of:

  • Your short, medium, and long-term rehabilitation needs
  • The impact of your injuries on your daily life, career, ad future earning potential
  • Your family support, home environment, and physiological wellbeing
  • Any pre-existing medical conditions
  • Immediate practical or medical needs

The INA forms the foundation of your personalised rehabilitation plan.

Creating a Tailored Rehabilitation Plan

Following the INA, your Case Manager coordinates a bespoke rehabilitation programme. They will continually assess the cost-effectiveness of recommended treatments, balancing private treatment with available NHS services to ensure efficient use of rehabilitation funds.

Conclusion: Why Early Rehabilitation Matters in Workplace Injury Claims

Effective, timely rehabilitation can significantly speed up recovery after a workplace accident. A skilled Personal Injury Solicitor will work proactively with the Defendant’s insurers to release funds quickly, enabling your rehabilitation plan to begin without delay.

Our expert team has decades of experience handling complex workplace, public liability, and occupiers’ liability claims. We provide compassionate, practical support at every stage of your recovery and claim.

Contact us today to discuss your workplace injury claim and find out how we can help you access the rehabilitation you need.

CONTACT US

Get in touch using the form below or via the following methods:

Ask NJS Law

For fast, friendly affordable legal advice. Contact a member of our team today.

FAQ

For any questions we may be able to answer, discover our FAQ section.

Categories
Animal Injury Claim

My Car Hit An Animal – Can I Claim For PI?

January 2024

Britain is undoubtedly a nation of animal lovers. Most drivers who collide with a large or medium sized animal such as a dogcowhorseor deer are devastated for the animal if it is seriously injured or killed. However, hitting an animal or swerving to avoid one can also cause serious injuries to vehicle occupants and lead to complex personal injury claims.

In recent years, there have been several high profile cases involving livestock on UK roads. For example, in June 2022, a driver was injured after hitting four cows that had wandered onto a dual carriageway. In another tragic case, a primary school teacher was killed by cattle that had escaped onto a public bridleway, resulting in potential fines of up to £250,000 for the owners due to inadequate safety measures.

Before explaining how to claim compensation for injuries caused by an animal related road traffic accident, it is important to understand your legal responsibilities if you hit an animal with your car.

What Does the Law Say If You Hit an Animal With Your Car?

If you collide with an animal while driving, you should first move to a safe place, turn on your hazard lights, switch off your engine, and check whether you or your passengers are injured.

Animals You Must Report to the Police

You are legally required to report the accident to the police if you hit any of the following animals:

  • Dogs
  • Horses
  • Cattle
  • Pigs
  • Goats
  • Sheep
  • Donkeys or mules

Failing to report a collision involving these animals can result in criminal penalties.

What to Do If the Animal Is Injured

If the animal is still alive, do not approach it. Injured animals can behave unpredictably and may pose a danger. Instead, contact the relevant animal welfare organisation:

  • RSPCA (England and Wales): 0300 1234 999
  • Scottish SPCA: 03000 999 999
  • USPCA (Northern Ireland): 028 3025 1000

Collisions With Wild Animals

There is no legal requirement to report collisions with wild animals such as foxes or badgers. However, notifying an animal welfare organisation may help prevent unnecessary suffering.

What About Deer Accidents?

Although deer are generally classed as wild animals, some are kept in enclosures. If a deer escapes and causes an accident, the enclosure owner may be legally responsible. For this reason, it is always advisable to contact the police if you hit a deer. If the animal is deceased, the incident should be reported to your local council.

Who Is Liable for Accidents involving Livestock on the Road?

Livestock owners have a legal duty to ensure their animals are securely enclosed and cannot escape onto roads, footpaths, or bridleways. This duty also applies to pet owners.

Case Law - Donaldson v Wilson (2004)

In Donaldson v Wilson, the Court of Appeal ruled that a farmer was liable for injuries caused when cattle escaped from his land and reached a public highway. This was the case even though a third party had left a gate open, confirming that livestock owners may still be held responsible in many situations.

Most farmers carry public liability insurance, which usually covers compensation claims for personal injury and property damage caused by escaped livestock.

How to Claim Compensation After Hitting or Swerving to Avoid an Animal

If you are injured in a car accident involving an animal, taking the correct steps immediately can strengthen your claim.

Steps to Take After the Accident

  • Contact the police and ensure the incident is recorded
  • Obtain names and contact details of witnesses
  • Take photographs of the scene, vehicle damage, and surrounding area
  • Seek medical attention as soon as possible

Proving Liability in an Animal-Related Personal Injury Claim

To succeed in a compensation claim, you must prove that the animal owner:

  1. Owed you a duty of care
  2. Breached that duty
  3. Caused a personal injury that was reasonably foreseeable

Evidence Used to Support Your Claim

A Personal Injury Solicitor will gather evidence such as:

  • Land ownership and property records
  • Witness statements
  • Photographs of the accident scene
  • Expert evidence from road traffic and livestock specialists
  • Medical records and police reports

Most personal injury claims are resolved through an out-of-court settlement, meaning court appearances are uncommon.

Time Limits for Claiming Compensation

There is a strict three year time limit for bringing a personal injury claim following an accident involving an animal. This time limit usually runs from the date of the accident, making early legal advice essential.

No Win, No Fee Personal Injury Claims

If you are worried about legal costs, most animal related accident claims are handled on a No WinNo Fee basis. This means there is no upfront cost and no fee to pay if your claim is unsuccessful.

Speak to a Persona Injury Solicitor Today

Being involved in an accident with a large animal can be frightening and traumatic, particularly if it happens at night or on a fast-moving road. If you have suffered injuries, it is vital to seek legal advice as soon as possible.

Our experienced personal injury team has decades of combined experience helping clients recover compensation following animal-related road traffic accidents. We offer a free, no-obligation consultation and are available by phone or email to discuss your case.

Ask NJS Law

For fast, friendly affordable legal advice. Contact a member of our team today.

FAQ

For any questions we may be able to answer, discover our FAQ section.