Author Archives: Patrick Mallon

About Patrick Mallon

Patrick Mallon (BA, PgDl) is a Grade A personal injury solicitor and head of our EL/PL department, which handles accidents at work and public liability claims, such as slips, trips and falls. He qualified in 2005 and has over 20 years of experience. Patrick is an expert No Win No Fee lawyer and well-known for his successful case, Billie Mae Smith v McDonalds. You can learn all about Patrick, his qualifications and his experience as a solicitor here. Get in touch today for free to see how Patrick and the team can help you.

Patrick Mallon

Patrick Mallon legal expert author

Patrick’s Qualifications

Patrick is a Grade A personal injury solicitor. He qualified in 2005 with a local Liverpool firm and has over 20 years of experience as a lawyer.

Patrick holds a Bachelor of Arts (BA) and a Post Graduate Diploma (PgDl) in Law and has successfully pursued hundreds of cases in his career.

Career Highlights

Patrick was the driving force behind the well-known case, Billie Mae Smith v McDonalds. The case focused on the applicability of costs recovery in a No Win No Fee case relating to pre-action disclosure. It was a complex and technical issue and Patrick achieved a successful outcome.

Meet Patrick Mallon

I enjoy all aspects of employer and public liability claims. We deal with a whole range of public liability claims here at JF Law including trips and slips, injuries caused by defective products and during beauty treatments.

I joined the law firm in 2018 after having worked as head of the EL/PL department at another well-known local firm. No matter how big or small your claim is I place a great emphasis on client care to ensure that whoever represents you at JF Law you are sure to receive excellent customer service.

Away from the office, my young children take up most of my time but if I ever do get time to myself, I like to spend it running and then relaxing with a beer.

Find Out More About Patrick

Am I Eligible To Claim For Domestic Violence Compensation?

Domestic violence refers to incidents or patterns of controlling, coercive, threatening behaviour, violence or abuse between partners or family members, regardless of sexuality or gender identity. Domestic abuse or violence may include physical, psychological, sexual, financial or emotional abuse. If you have suffered domestic violence, you may be eligible to claim domestic violence compensation, even if your abuser has not been caught or convicted.

In this guide we explain how criminal injury claims work, discussing the different routes to claiming compensation. We look at eligibility requirements, provide examples of potential payouts and look at the types of abuse you could claim compensation for. Our solicitors understand how difficult the claims process can be, and we are here to guide you through claiming the compensation you deserve on a No Win No Fee basis.

Our friendly advisors are available to talk about claiming criminal injury compensation for domestic violence and abuse around the clock. As part of your free assessment, they will check whether you have good grounds to claim, advise on how much compensation you could be eligible for and could connect you to one of our solicitors. Get in touch with us today.

  • Call our claims helpline on 0800 073 8804.
  • Fill out our contact us form for a call back.
  • Speak with us using the live chat feature on this page.

A woman on the floor being pinned down by a man.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is It Possible To Claim For Domestic Violence Compensation Through The CICA?

If you have suffered domestic violence or abuse, you may be eligible to claim compensation via the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA). The CICA is an agency of the government. They administer the Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme (the Scheme). This is a government-funded scheme, compensating victims of violent crimes in Great Britain as well as those affected by terror abroad.

Claims may be made to the CICA where there is no other recourse to compensation, such as claims against an individual.

To make a domestic violence compensation claim through the CICA, you must meet the following eligibility criteria.

  1. The incident must have taken place in Great Britain (or other relevant place, such as a boat registered in GB).
  2. The incident was reported to the police as soon as reasonably possible to do so. Claimants must also fully cooperate with the police.
  3. Any physical or mental injuries must meet the criteria set by the Scheme.

Domestic violence victims must also ensure that the claim is filed within the relevant time limit (discussed later in this guide). As long as your application meets the CICA’s requirements you may also be able to claim if the perpetrator has not been caught or convicted. This is discussed later in this guide.

One of our domestic violence solicitors could guide you through the process of submitting an application to the CICA. Please get in contact with our team to check your eligibility to claim compensation.

Can I Still Claim If It’s Against A Non-Convicted Person?

Yes, you may still be able to make a domestic violence compensation claim via the CICA even if the defendant has not been convicted of the crime. The CICA can compensate victims of abuse regardless of whether their abuser has been caught, prosecuted or convicted.

To claim against a non-convicted person you must demonstrate that,

  • The incident was reported to the police at the earliest possible opportunity.
  • You have a police reference number proving it has been reported.
  • You cooperate with the police in any investigation they carry out. This may mean pressing charges against the abuser.
  • There is sufficient evidence to support your claim.

Whilst you could claim compensation for domestic violence without the abuser having been convicted, the CICA may carefully assess the credibility of your report and the evidence supporting your claim. They will liaise with the police to collect this evidence.

One of our solicitors could help assess your case and help to determine whether you may be able to claim through the CICA.An image shows a woman in an abusive relationship with a man standing over her with his fist out.

How Much Domestic Violence Compensation Could I Be Awarded?

Sexual assault leading to serious internal injuries and which causes permanent disabling mental injuries could be awarded £44,000. As previously noted, the CICA administers the Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme. The Scheme is funded by the government and assess applications based on the severity of the injury and its impact on the claimant.

If successful, the CICA will award compensation in accordance with the tariffs found in the Scheme. Injuries from the main tariff will be subject to the multiple injury formula, which is as follows:

  • 100% of the tariff for the highest valued injury.
  • 30% for an injury of equal or second highest value.
  • 15% for a third injury that is of equal of third highest value.

However, some injuries are separate from this main tariff. These include losing a foetus or becoming pregnant as well as infection with a sexually transmitted disease.

Below we outline compensation tariffs taken from the Scheme for different types of injury, excluding the first row, which is not a tariff figure. Please note that different claims will be affected by various items. Therefore, the table serves only as guidance. Speak to an advisor for a more accurate valuation of your potential compensation.

InjurySeverityNotesCompensation
Multiple, criminal injuries.SeriousInclusive of both special expenses and loss of earnings.Up to £500,000 with special expenses and loss of earnings.
Brain damageVery serious brain injury.Severely physically limiting and significant effects on the senses.£175,000
Brain damageModerate brain damageSignificant injury resulting in dependency on others, changes to personality and intellectual deficit.£82,000
Sexual assaultNon-consensual (penile) penetration of vagina, anus or mouth.Serious internal injuries and permanent disabling mental illness (severe).£44,000
Sexual assaultNon-consensual (penile) penetration of vagina, anus or mouth.Serious internal injuries and permanent disabling mental illness (moderate).£33,000
Mental injuryPermanent mental injury.A seriously disabling mental injury confirmed by a clinical psychologist or psychiatrist.£27,000
Head & NeckBurns to the faceBurns causing more than minor disfigurement.£16,500
Upper limbsBurnsSevere burns.£11,000
Upper limbsFractured upper arm bone.Fractures to both arms with continuing and significant disability.£11,000
FaceMultiple fractures to the face.Fractures including Le Fort fractures.£11,000

How Can Compensation Help Me After Domestic Abuse?

Domestic violence compensation can help victims of abuse to rebuild their lives. Experiencing abuse may result in severe disruption to a victim’s life and affect their financial stability.

Domestic violence victims could claim both special expenses and for loss of earnings. Special expenses may be awarded if you have lost out on income and earnings for a period of 28 weeks or more. Such expenses may be considered from the date of the incident.

Special expenses may include:

  • The cost of medical treatment, such as medical care, therapy provided by a psychiatrist or clinical psychologist, or other therapy.
  • Mobility equipment, otherwise not available for free.
  • Replacing personal property damaged in the incident, such glasses or hearing aids.

In order for special expenses to be taken into consideration, they must be considered necessary and reasonable. They must also have been directly caused by your injury and not be available for free from another source.

A member of our team could answer questions such as ‘what is the criminal injury compensation scheme’ and provide further information on how compensation may be calculated.

A man holds a woman against the wall by the head.

What Forms Of Abuse Are Compensated For By The CICA?

The CICA provides compensation to victims of various forms of abuse. Below, we outline several types of abuse and harm which may be compensated for through the CICA.

We also provide examples of possible injuries, to help you better understand what injuries or harm may be included in a claim.

Physical Abuse

Physical abuse includes intentional acts of violence resulting in injury or lasting harm. Survivors may experience long-term injuries or disfigurement.

Injuries may include:

  • Broken or fractured bones – these may be caused by being struck or thrown against an object.
  • Scarring and disfigurement – such as wounds caused by burns, cuts or repeated abuse.
  • Internal injuries – such as damage to the organs.
  • Head injuries – such as skull fractures, concussions or brain damage.

Sexual Abuse

The definition of sexual (in the context of rape and sexual offences discussed in this Crown Prosecution Service resource) is set out in the Sexual Offences Act 2003. Sexual abuse includes non-consensual sexual behaviour or acts. This may be through physical force, manipulation or coercion. Sexual abuse may cause both physical injuries as well as a psychiatric injury and trauma.

Sexual abuse claims may include:

  • Non-consensual groping or touching – including any form of unwanted sexual contact.
  • Rape and/ or sexual assault – including both penetrative and non-penetrative acts.
  • Historical abuse – where the survivor of abuse as a child may make a claim years later.
  • Psychological harm – where the survivor suffered post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety or depression as a result of abuse.

Fear Of Immediate Violence

Fear of immediate violence may be as harmful to a survivor as physical injuries. Such acts are considered a crime of violence. This type of abuse could cause psychological distress and harm. It may result in long-term psychological conditions and leave survivors with psychological trauma.

Victims could experience,

  • Threats of physical violence – where an abuser intimidates an individual, causing them to believe they are in imminent danger.
  • Isolating a victim in a hostile environment – placing a survivor in a situation where they feared violence would be carried out.

These are some instances in which survivors may make a criminal victim compensation claim through the CICA. If you have suffered domestic violence or abuse, please contact our team to get help and support.

Do I Have To Make A CICA Claim Within A Certain Time Period?

If you are making a claim for domestic violence compensation through the CICA, your claim must be submitted within two years of the incident.

This time limit applies to most domestic violence claims. However, exceptions may be granted in cases where circumstances (such as historical sexual abuse) prevented an application being made earlier.

  • If the abuse or domestic violence took place and was reported to the police before you turned 18, you have until your 20th birthday to file a claim.
  • If the domestic violence or abuse took place before you turned 18 but was not reported at the time, you have 2 years to file a claim from when it was reported.

We must note that whilst there is a set time period in which to begin a compensation claim, there is not a strict time limit on how long a claim may take. Domestic abuse claims can be complex and how long the claim takes may be impacted by several factors. Claims are assessed by the CICA as quickly as possible. The majority of cases are assessed within 12 months, according to this government resource.

If you are unsure whether you are eligible to make a claim, our experienced solicitors could review your case and advise you on steps you may take. They could guide you through the process of filing a claim and ensure that you do so within the limitation period.

Will I Need A Solicitor To Claim?

Whilst it is not a legal requirement to work with a criminal injury lawyer, we believe that doing so could significantly improve your chances of getting the compensation you deserve.

Making a domestic violence compensation claim, whether through the CICA or directly against the perpetrator can be complex. Steps such as gathering medical evidence, understanding legal terminology and negotiating a fair settlement can all be complicated when carried out yourself. Our team of specialist solicitors are committed to providing claimants with expert support.

We operate on a No Win No Fee basis, taking on cases through Conditional Fee Agreements (CFA). This means that you will not have to worry about meeting upfront legal costs. There also won’t be any fees to pay for your solicitor as the claim is ongoing or if it is unsuccessful. However, if you are awarded compensation, your solicitor will take a small percentage of this as their success fee. A limit is placed on this percentage by the law.

Our team has decades of combined experience in helping clients navigate the claims process. If you have suffered domestic abuse or violence and need legal help, we are here to help you.

Contact Us

If you are ready to begin your domestic violence claim, our advisors are on hand to provide expert help and guidance. Talk to a team member using one of the options below:

  • Call us on 0800 073 8804 for a free consultation.
  • Use our contact us form to send the details of your case.
  • Discuss your case with an advisor, using the live chat on this page.

Ways To Get Support For Domestic Violence

If you or someone you know experienced domestic violence, getting the right support can be an essential step towards safety and recovery. Across the country, there are various organisations and support services which can provide emergency shelter, confidential assistance, and ongoing emotional support.

Below, we have compiled a list of trusted resources and support services who can help survivors of domestic violence and abuse.

  • NHS Domestic Abuse Help – this is a free and confidential service. It provides information and access to support services.
  • Government Guidance On Domestic Abuse – advice on accessing help, support services and further understanding your legal rights.
  • Victim Support – provides independent support and advice to victims of crime.
  • Women’s Aid – is a charity which works to end domestic abuse. They offer support services across the country.

Speaking to a criminal injury lawyer can help to clarify your options, ensuring that you get the practical, emotional and financial support you need. Our team is ready to assist you. Contact us to take the next step.

A solicitor works on a domestic violence compensation claim.

Learn More

Below, we have gathered further key resources to help you learn more about claiming compensation, getting legal guidance and support services.

Key resources and support services

Seeking domestic violence compensation can be a vital step in moving forward. If you are ready to begin your claim, our solicitors are ready to help you. They can provide expert legal advice and guidance. Speak to an advisor today.

Statistics and Research Into Prisoner Injury Claims

A lawyer who is an expert in prison injury compensation claims sit at his desk.

With Britain’s overcrowded prisons hitting record levels last year, concerns over the safety of both staff and inmates have grown.

The latest published prison population statistics show there are only just over 1,000 spaces left in men’s prisons, prompting former justice secretary David Gauke to release his Independent Sentencing Review (ISR) earlier than expected. 

In the interim report, Mr Gauke says he is confronting ‘the consequences of decades of haphazard policy-making and underinvestment in the criminal justice system – bringing it to the brink of collapse.’

Mr Gauke says he is confronting ‘the consequence of decades of haphazard policy-making and underinvestment in the criminal justice system – bringing it to the brink of collapse.’

In September, the government’s SDS40 (standard determinate sentencing) scheme saw prisoners released just 40 per cent of the way through their sentence. 

In the time frame, for every 100 people released from prison, 67 were recalled. Although Mr Gauke’s report does acknowledge that ‘factors including the introduction of a mandatory supervision period for shorter sentences, and heightened probation officer risk aversion… have contributed to this increase.’

But while the prison system undergoes review and reform, costs continue to be incurred – including compensation payouts to prisoners for injury claims.

To gain a full understanding of the scope of the issue, Legal Expert set out to uncover the true cost of prisoner injury claims

How Legal Expert Can Help

Here at Legal Expert, we can help anyone who has suffered a personal injury through no fault of their own. If you have suffered harm as a prisoner conducting work tasks, if you’ve been injured by staff, or suffered harm caused by another inmate, get in touch today for free advice.

How We Conducted Our Research

We sent out Freedom of Information (FOI) requests to the Ministry of Justice (MoJ) asking for the number of prisoner injury claims lodged in the last three years, broken down by UK prison and by year.

We also asked how many of those claims were settled and the total amount of damages awarded each year as well as the number of refused claims and the top injuries cited.

Results: Statistics On Prisoner Injuries and Claims

Prisoner injury claims in the UK have cost the MoJ an eye-watering £9.8m in the last five years. 

The most common injuries were from prison bunk beds – resulting in £4.5m being paid to inmate claimants since 2022. 

Some £2.8m was paid in damages settling claims related to slips, trips and falls and a further £446K was paid for asbestos-related injuries. 

UK Prisoner Injury Claims

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HMP Mallet

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How Much Compensation For Accident Working Abroad Claims

Have you suffered physical, psychological and financial harm because of a work accident that wasn’t your fault while on a job abroad? Our solicitors are experts at helping eligible claimants with accident working abroad claims, and this guide explains how they could help you.

We’ll start with some examples of claims for an accident while working abroad. Eligibility to start a claim is explained. How compensation could be awarded is described in detail, and we also detail the evidence you can gather to make your claim as strong as possible.

The final sections of our guide explain the advantages of working with our solicitors. They can offer qualifying claimants a type of No Win No Fee arrangement to commence their legal action. This avoids the need for upfront or ongoing solicitors’ fees and can help you fund your legal representation today.

To learn more, read on, or you can discuss accident compensation claims abroad with our advisory team now by:

  • Calling on 0800 073 8804
  • Fill out our contact us form and an advisor will get back to you
  • Use the live chat feature below.

HOTEL STAFF WORKING IN A FOREIGN BRANCH OF A UK HOTEL CHAIN

Frequently Asked Questions 

  1. Examples Of Accident Working Abroad Claims
  2. Am I Eligible To Claim If I Was Injured Working Abroad?
  3. How Much Compensation Could I Get?
  4. Who Would Be Responsible For Paying My Compensation?
  5. What Evidence Is Needed For Accident Working Abroad Claims?
  6. Do I Have To Start My Claim Within A Time Limit?
  7. Can I Make A No Win No Fee Claim?
  8. More Information

Examples Of Accident Working Abroad Claims

Working abroad can cover a wide range of activities that may be essentially very similar to workplace activities in the UK. We look at some accident examples that might be encountered:

  • A member of the bar staff on a cruise ship suffered severe cuts to their hand while trying to load and unload defective work equipment.
  • A construction worker fell from an unsecured balcony on a site because safety guards were not put in place.
  • Workers on an oil rig were not provided with the correct personal protective equipment (PPE), and a worker suffered damage to his eyes trying to perform a task with no eye protection.
  • The tiles around a swimming pool area were left broken and unrepaired, which caused a holiday rep to stumble and suffer soft tissue lacerations and a fractured wrist.

As is the case in the UK, if you can link the injuries you suffered to some shortcoming in the health and safety standards required, you could have a legitimate claim. To discuss your particular circumstances and talk about accident working abroad claims, reach out to a member of our advisory team.

SUITCASE AND PALM TREE TO INDICATE WORKER IN A FOREIGN LOCATION

Am I Eligible To Claim If I Was Injured Working Abroad?

You could have a valid compensation claim for personal injury if your employer failed to ensure that your working conditions were safe and met required standards. To be eligible, the following must apply:

  • A duty of care protected you.
  • Your employer breached this duty.
  • You suffered harm as a consequence.

The Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974 (HASAWA) binds all UK employers to adhere to certain health and safety standards. It also sets the duty of care that UK-based employers must comply with. Even if the physical location of your workplace is outside of the UK, your employer has a duty of care to take reasonable and proportionate actions to ensure you are protected from being harmed whilst performing your job. Amongst other things, this includes:

  • Regular risk assessments.
  • Proper training and provision of personal protective equipment (PPE) as required.
  • Giving clear health and safety advice.

Furthermore, there may be local laws regarding health and safety in that country that employers must ensure they comply with. With this in mind, if you feel that your employer failed to take commensurate actions and you suffered harm as a result, speak to our advisors about accident working abroad claims.

How Much Compensation Could I Get?

How much compensation you could get largely depends on the nature of your injuries, along with any financial losses they caused. For example, a very severe brain injury could be awarded between £344,150 and £493,000 (according to the Judicial College Guidelines). In addition to that, the injured party may need to be airlifted home and require lifelong care alongside major accommodation adjustments, pushing the overall settlement into the millions. However, if an employee abroad suffers a less severe arm injury, they could be awarded between £23,430 and £47,810 for the physical harm and have considerably fewer expenses.

Accident working abroad claims will be awarded compensation in the same manner as any other personal injury claim. Settlements could consist of both general and special damages. General damages allocate an amount to the physical harm, any long-term disability and psychological injuries caused by the accident. Special damages compensate for any financial hardships caused by the injuries.

To assess an amount for general damages, those involved will use medical evidence, such as medical records or the results of an independent medical evaluation, to help them. In addition to this, they might consult publications such as the Judicial College Guidelines (JCG). This document (in its 17th edition) applies guideline amounts to various injuries based on how serious or severe they are.

The table below illustrates some examples from the JCG (except the top entry). These are strictly guidelines. Please note that the best way to obtain an accurate idea of what compensation could be owed is to discuss your claim in detail with an expert. If you’d like to see whether our solicitors could take on your case, call the team.

Compensation Guidelines

INJURYSEVERITYGUIDELINE BRACKETS
Multiple types of injury and special damages for the lost income, care costs and medical bills.SeriousUp to £1 million plus
Head/Brain(a) Very Severe £344,150 up to £493,000
(c) Moderate (iii) £52,550 up to £110,720
Arm(a) Severe £117,360 up to £159,770
Neck(a) Severe (ii) £80,240 up to £159,770
Hand(b) Serious damage to both hands.£68,070 up to £103,200
Knee(a) Severe (ii) £63,610 up to £85,100
Eyesight(d) Total loss of one eye£66,920 up to £80,210
Psychiatric Damage (b) Moderately Severe £23,270 up to £66,920
Back (b) Moderate (i) £33,880 up to £47,320

A second category of loss often factors into the final compensation calculation. Special damages can be awarded to reimburse the claimant for the financial harm they suffered because of the injury. Evidence needs to be put forward to include this in a claim, such as:

  • Wage slips or statements that show how your income dropped or halted after the injury.
  • The costs of the private medical treatments you needed.
  • Long-term expenses for rehabilitation or disability needs.
  • Proof of the expense of paying others to care for you.
  • Evidence of additional childcare costs.
  • Travel expenses to vital appointments.

For more information, please speak to our advisors about calculating your accident at work claim or any aspect of international personal injury claims.PERSON WITH THEIR LEG IN A CAST AFTER A WORKPLACE ACCIDENT

Who Would Be Responsible For Paying My Compensation?

Generally, an insurance company will be responsible for paying your settlement. You may think that if you make a successful personal injury claim against your employer, the compensation awarded would come out of their pockets. However, this is not the case. UK employers are required by law to hold Employers’ Liability Insurance, usually to a minimum of £5 million. If a claim against them is successful, the insurance company pays the compensation.

For personalised guidance on who might be liable to pay you compensation, speak to the team about accident working abroad claims. A friendly advisor can also help assess your eligibility, provide guidance on your next steps and give a more accurate estimate of the personal injury compensation you could be awarded.

What Evidence Is Needed For Accident Working Abroad Claims?

Evidence is required in personal injury claims that shows a breach of the duty of care caused the injury. With this in mind, it is useful to collect as much of the following as you can:

  • Photos of your injuries.
  • Copies of CCTV footage of the accident.
  • The contact information for others who witnessed the accident. This will allow them to be approached for a supporting statement in the future.
  • A copy from the workplace accident book that may be kept on the premises.
  • Reports from any emergency teams that attended the accident.

You might have other forms of evidence that could help strengthen your argument to be compensated. Why not see if our solicitors can cast their expert eye over your claim after an accident working abroad? Get in touch with an advisor today for a free consultation and if you meet the eligibility criteria, they can connect you to one of our solicitors.

Do I Have To Start My Claim Within A Time Limit?

Typically, there is a 3-year time limit in which to start accident working abroad claims. The Limitation Act 1980 sets the personal injury claims time limit. This typically begins from the date of the accident itself. Exceptions to this standard time frame are as follows:

  • Minors cannot launch a personal injury claim until they are 18, from which point the 3 year time limit starts.
  • Claimants who lack the mental capacity to claim themselves are not subject to a time limit. However, should their capacity return, they have 3 years to launch a claim from the date of recovery.

However, a litigation friend can manage a claim on behalf of an exempt injured party at any point during the limitation period suspension. To become a litigation friend, for example, to act on behalf of your spouse who suffered a serious brain injury, you would need to apply to the courts and they will appoint you as one. If you would like to discuss time limits, litigation friends or any aspect of claims for an accident working abroad, connect via the contact options above.

NO WIN NO FEE SOLICITOR EXPLAINING ACCIDENT WORKING ABROAD CLAIMS

Can I Make A No Win No Fee Claim?

If you meet the criteria for eligibility that were explored above, you could start a compensation claim for an accident while working abroad with the support of a No Win No Fee solicitor. You don’t have to use the services of a solicitor, but it makes sense to see if they could help. Our solicitors can do the following:

  • Calculate the compensation you’re owed much more accurately than any online calculator.
  • Help you collect supporting evidence like witness testimony and medical findings from specialists.
  • Deal with all the correspondence and deadlines for any court requests as the claim moves forward.
  • Represent your accident abroad claim professionally at all times.
  • Keep you updated on your case.

Additionally, our solicitors provide these excellent services without creating yet more urgent or additional expense. Because they offer their No Win No Fee services under a Conditional Fee Agreement (CFA), you can take advantage of the following if your claim qualifies:

  • No requirement to pay for the initial solicitors’ fees to start work.
  • No solicitors’ fees for work moving forward.
  • No applicable fees for completed work if the claim is unsuccessful.
  • If the claim is a success, a nominal percentage is taken from the compensation. This amount can be agreed upon between the solicitor and you before the work starts.
  • In addition to this, the percentage that can be deducted as a success fee is capped by law. This ensures that the person claiming receives virtually all their compensation.

If No Win No Fee terms are of interest to you after an accident while working abroad, get in touch. Our team can assess the strength of your claim and potentially direct you to our solicitors to get started.

Contact Our Solicitors

  • Call our team on 0800 073 8804 about your workplace injury while abroad.
  • Send us a message using our online contact us form
  • You can also reach us online with our 24/7 live chat.

More Information

In addition to information on claims for accidents while working abroad, these other resources might be helpful:

External reading:

In conclusion, thank you for reading this guide about accident working abroad claims. If you need any further information or support after being injured abroad, the team are happy to assist.

How To Claim For Medication Errors In Care Homes

Care homes provide vital services to some of the most vulnerable people in society. They have a duty of care to ensure residents are given a level of care that meets with fundamental standards as set out by the Care Quality Commission (CQC). Correctly dispensing medication is one such responsibility. Medication errors in care homes can cause long-term health impacts for the resident involved. If this happened to you or a loved one, you could be owed compensation from the care home at fault.

Key Points To Remember When Claiming For Care Home Negligence

  • Care home staff are required to meet certain professional standards of care, and if they fail to do so, causing avoidable harm to a resident/patient, a compensation claim can apply.
  • Dispensing medication correctly is a key responsibility of care home staff.
  • A three-year time limit is allocated in which to start a care home claim, but this can be frozen if the person lacks mental capacity.
  • You can initiate a claim for a wrong medication error on behalf of someone else, like a relative.
  • One of our solicitors could help eligible claimants start their claims via a type of No Win No Fee contract that avoids immediate or ongoing legal fees.

Read on to learn more on how to claim. Or connect with us now for free guidance on claims for medication errors in care homes:

CARE HOME WORKER GIVING MEDICATION TO A RESIDENT

Browse Our Guide 

  1. Claiming For Medication Errors In Care Homes
  2. Making A Care Home Negligence Claim For Someone Else 
  3. How Can Medication Errors In Care Homes Happen?
  4. Different Types Of Medication Errors And Their Impacts
  5. How Much Compensation Could You Get For Medication Errors In Care Homes?
  6. Why Make A Claim With Legal Expert?
  7. Learn More

Claiming For Medication Errors In Care Homes

Claims for medication errors in care homes start with meeting three eligibility criteria:

  • The care home staff had a specific duty of care to provide proper care and treatment.
  • They fell short of this expected standard.
  • You (or a relative) experienced avoidable or unnecessary harm as a result of this.

If you meet these three criteria, you could have a care home claim and be owed compensation for the physical, psychological and financial harm caused.

As you read this guide, please feel free to connect at any point with our advisors on the number above for free and impartial legal guidance about anything raised.

Making A Care Home Negligence Claim For Someone Else 

As we touched upon in our key takeaway section, there is normally a three-year time limit for starting a medication error claim as detailed by the Limitation Act 1980. However, this can be paused or frozen for minors (until they turn 18) and those who lack the mental capacity to claim independently (indefinitely).

If you need to claim on behalf of someone else, the courts may appoint you as a litigation friend. In this role, you can start a care home claim immediately and perform all the functions of the claim on the person’s behalf. This is often useful if compensation is being sought urgently for medical treatment.

Call our advisors if you’d like more guidance on the role of litigation friends or any part of the claims process after medication errors in care homes.

How Can Medication Errors In Care Homes Happen?

We explore some specific scenarios of harm caused by medication errors in care homes in the following section, but some general causes may be as follows:

  • Poor communication between doctors and care home staff.
  • Inadequate staffing and ineffective shift patterns.
  • Incorrectly trained (or untrained) staff are left in charge.
  • The frequency, strength or route to administering the drug is not double-checked for patient suitability.
  • Incorrect substitute drugs are administered.
  • When medication names are similar or abbreviated in a way that not everyone understands.
  • When there’s a failure to maintain the storage and equipment used for administering medication to the correct standards.

Common medication errors in care homes can differ greatly from person to person. If you’d like to discuss your particular situation and see if a claim can apply, call the team.

CARE WORKER SERVING FOOD TO A RESIDENT

Different Types Of Medication Errors And Their Impacts

Below are some examples of how medication errors in care homes might happen in a way that presents grounds for a potential claim:

  • A doctor makes an error when prescribing medication to a resident. The resident fails to get better.
  • The correct dosage of medication may be administered to the wrong resident because of staff error. One resident is harmed and the other one fails to receive care. In cases of similar patient surnames, a ‘Name Alert’ procedure should be used to ensure the right resident receives their medication.
  • Due to lack of adequate supervision, the resident may fail to take their prescribed drugs or take too much medication, lose consciousness and suffer a head injury in a fall.
  • Because care home record keeping systems are not regularly updated, a resident continues to receive and take a drug that is no longer appropriate, causing them digestive and bowel injury.
  • Staff fail to consult patient notes regularly and monitor any adverse drug effects. Either immediately or over a prolonged period, the resident suffers a decline in health because of these medicine administration errors.
  • Stressed or over-worked care home staff simply forget to administer medication to a resident, impacting their recovery and patient safety.
  • The correct procedure for taking medication is not followed, such as not taking medication with food. This causes the patient harm like nausea and vomiting.
  • Over-the-counter medication is used alongside prescription drugs without checking any adverse drug reactions to the resident. They suffer kidney damage and a spleen injury as a result.
  • Staff should also check that the right medication is in the correct packaging and conforms with use-by dates.

The Consequences Of Medication Errors

Medication mistakes can cause an array of side effects that impact health and well-being. They can cause temporary or permanent health problems, including the following:

  • Mild discomfort.
  • Fatigue, confusion and loss of consciousness.
  • Rapid heart rate.
  • Nausea, diarrhoea and vomiting.
  • Internal bleeding and organ damage to the kidneys, bowel, spleen or liver.
  • Bladder injury.
  • Cardiac arrest and death.

Simple antibiotics can cause reactions such as wheezing and breathing difficulties, so it’s essential that care home staff are vigilant in all the ways to reduce medication errors. If you feel your care home failed, speak to our team about what to do next.

ELDERLY PATIENT RECOVERING FROM WRONG MEDICATION IN HOSPITAL

How Much Compensation Could You Get For Medication Errors In Care Homes?

Claims for medication errors in care homes that are successful can mean an award that is made up of two heads of loss called general and special damages. Under general damages, a monetary amount is calculated that reflects the following:

  • The physical pain the person endured.
  • Any psychiatric injury.
  • Any permanent disability.
  • The overall negative impact on the quality of their life.

Those involved in calculating general damages often refer to medical records to understand what effect the medication errors had on the claimant, along with the overall prognosis. In addition to this, they also consult publications like the Judicial College Guidelines (JCG) where various types and severity of harm are listed with a guideline award bracket.

These sums are based on successful claims made in the past. However, they are strictly guideline figures and the excerpt we have put together below includes a top entry that is not from the JCG:

Compensation Guidelines

AREA OF HARMSEVERITYAWARD GUIDELINES
Multiple forms of harm and awards under special damages for care costs and medical expenses.SevereUp to £550,000 plus.
Brain/Head(b) Moderately Severe£267,340 up to £344,150
Kidney (a) Serious £206,730 up to £256,780
Bowels(a) Double incontinence and lost functionUp to £224,790
Bladder(c) Serious£78,080 up to £97,540
Non-Traumatic Illness to Digestive System(i) Severe£46,900 up to £64,070
(ii) Serious£11,640 up to £23,430
(iii) Significant£4,820 up to £11,640
(iv) Temporary£1,110 up to £4,820
Asthma-like Symptoms(d) Mild£12,990 up to £23,430

Could I Claim Special Damages?

Special damages are the second category of loss that can form the total compensation award. This reimburses the person for any financial loss and monetary expense caused by the medication error. Special damages are only claimed alongside general damages and you would be required to submit documented proof such as:

  • Evidence of loss of earnings after the medication error.
  • Proof of any private medical expenses.
  • Receipts and invoices for essential care required after the error.
  • Proof of costs for specialist equipment.
  • Travel amounts for appointments.

Our solicitors know how to use documented proof like this to calculate the maximum compensation owed. If you’d like more guidance on how they approach claims for medication errors in care homes and how compensation is calculated, get in touch with our advisory team.

Why Make A Claim With Legal Expert?

Our solicitors have been confidently dealing with care home claims for decades. They have the essential expertise to help people just like you build a solid claim for compensation after a medication error. In addition to this, if they take up the claim you can expect:

  • Regular updates on the status of the claim.
  • A fully and accurately calculated idea of what compensation is owed.
  • Skilful negotiation on your behalf throughout the entire process, with all correspondence and court requests dealt with promptly.
  • A professionally presented claim at all times.

You or your loved one could focus on recovering from the medication error, safe in the knowledge that every aspect of your claim against a negligent care home is being properly handled. And they can do this in a way that does not add to your financial burden right now.

NO WIN NO FEE SOLICITOR DISCUSSING CLAIMS FOR MEDICATION ERRORS IN CARE HOMES

What Is A No Win No Fee Agreement?

Our solicitors can offer their services under No Win No Fee terms. This is a funding option that helps people access professional legal services without charge until the outcome of the claim is known. Not all solicitors offer their services in this way, but ours can offer a version called a Conditional Fee Agreement (CFA), which normally means:

  • You won’t need to pay upfront solicitors fees.
  • No solicitors’ fees apply as the claim moves ahead.
  • No solicitor’s fee applies for finished work on the claim if it fails.
  • A nominal percentage ‘success fee’ is taken from the compensation for winning claim outcomes.
  • A legal cap keeps the success fee percentage low.
  • This guarantees you benefit first and foremost.
  • In addition to this, you and your solicitor can agree on the success fee amount before work starts.

With all this mind, why not see if our solicitors can help you? Learn more about No Win No Fee claims for medication errors in care homes today:

Learn More

Alongside this guide on claims for medication errors in care homes, these other articles might prove helpful:

External resources:

Thank you for reading our guide about medication errors in care homes. If you would like to see whether you could go ahead with a claim or just have other questions, please connect with our advisory team for immediate assistance.

A Guide To Factory Accident Claims

If you have suffered an injury whilst working in a warehouse or factory, understanding how to make a factory accident compensation claim is crucial. Our solicitors have expertise in helping people to make successful factory accident claims. They could guide you through the accident at work claims process, helping you to secure the compensation you deserve. In our guide we cover everything you may need to know about how to successfully make a compensation claim.

The Important Takeaways

  • Employers have a duty of care to take reasonable steps to keep workplaces safe.
  • There are various regulations and pieces of legislation designed to keep people safe at work.
  • Factory and warehouse accidents could happen in a variety of different ways.
  • Compensation may be awarded for pain, suffering and financial losses.
  • One of our expert solicitors could help you on a No Win No Fee basis.

Get help with your factory accident claim by contacting our advisors. If they think your claim is valid, they could connect you to our experienced solicitors.

A colleague kneels over a warehouse worker laying on the floor.

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What Are Factory Accident Claims?

If you have been injured in a factory accident, you may be able to claim compensation. A warehouse or factory accident claim is a way to seek compensation for injuries suffered in a workplace accident where an employer was at fault.

In order to claim compensation, you must meet the following eligibility criteria. These are that:

  1. An employer had a duty of care to you. The main piece of legislation under which employers have a duty of care is the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974.
  2. This employer breached their duty, causing the accident.
  3. You suffered physical or psychological injuries as a result of this.
  4. You were injured in the last three years,

Factory injuries could range from minor lacerations and soft tissue injuries through to serious injuries such as chemical burns, head injuries and amputations.

What Is My Factory Or Warehouse Employer’s Duty Of Care?

As stated above, factory and warehouse employers have a legal duty of care. They must take reasonable steps to ensure workers’ safety.

Steps that employers may take to fulfil this duty of care could include:

  • Maintain a safe working environment – workplaces should be kept free from hazards, such as trip hazards. They should also regularly maintain facilities, equipment and machinery.
  • Provide adequate trainingInadequate training, such as failing to provide proper manual handling training, or in the use of dangerous machinery, could lead to workplace injuries.
  • Provide Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) – employers should provide PPE appropriate to workplaces, job roles and potential hazards.
  • Carry out risk assessments – employers should carry out regular risk assessments to identify potential hazards. They should subsequently implement measures to mitigate such risks.
  • Record and report workplace accidents – employers should keep an accident report book in which incidents are logged. Serious accidents and factory injuries should be reported to the relevant authorities, such as the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). This is the UK’s regulator for workplace safety.

Find out more about eligibility to make factory accident claims by contacting our specialist team.

What Are The Six Pack Regulations?

The ‘six pack’ regulations is a term applied to six workplace health and safety regulations which came into effect in the 1990’s, following European Union directives. The purpose of these six regulations is to protect employees in the workplace.

The six pack regulations are:

Employers can significantly reduce the likelihood of accidents by following health and safety measures set out in these different pieces of legislation.

Learn more about which health and safety regulations may apply to your workplace by contacting our team.

A factory worker has sustained a hand injury.

Common Causes Of A Warehouse Or Factory Accident

There are numerous potential hazards and causes of factory accidents. Understanding what these potential causes are can help employers prevent such accidents from taking place and help employees know when they could be able to claim compensation.

Slips, Trips Or Falls

Slips, trips and falls are one of the most common types of workplace accidents. According to HSE statistics, slips and falls on the same level account for 31% of non-fatal injuries at work. Trips and falls in factories and warehouses could be caused by spillages which have not been cleaned up, uneven floors or unmarked hazards, trailing leads and poor lighting on staircases.

Straining

Strains and sprains may be caused by overexertion or improper lifting techniques. They could occur when you have to lift or move a heavy object without proper training, equipment or help. They may also be caused by carrying out repetitive and awkward tasks or movements.

Crushing Or Trapping

Crush accidents may be caused by falling objects which have been improperly stored at heights. Workers may also suffer crush injuries due to the use of defective machinery. In addition, improper use of equipment such as roll cages and lift trucks could cause a worker to be crushed or trapped.

Burns

Burn injuries may be caused by exposure to hazardous chemicals, hot surfaces and open flames, or electrical burns due to an electric shock. A lack of protective equipment, faulty machinery or the improper handling of hazardous materials could all constitute hazards.

Chemical Or Dangerous Substance Exposure

Exposure to chemicals and other dangerous substances could lead to health issues ranging from skin irritation to respiratory conditions and even cancers. Common causes of exposure to dangerous substances could include improper ventilation, a lack of proper safety equipment or improper storage of chemicals. Workplaces should take steps, such as adhering to The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 (COSHH) regulations.

Hearing Loss

Workers in factories and warehouses may face exposure to sudden, loud bangs and noises. This can result in damage to the hearing, including partial or full hearing loss. Exposure can be caused by a lack of proper ear protection, such as ear defenders or poorly scheduled steam releases.

Injury To Eyes

Eye injuries may be caused by exposure to debris or harmful substances. Factors which could lead to eye injuries may include having no eye protection at work, defective equipment and inadequate safety measures.

Back And Neck Injuries

Back and neck injuries could be caused by manual handling operations, such as if you are twisting or jerking when lifting or otherwise moving items. Risk factors could include improper lifting techniques, a lack of lifting equipment and being asked to lift or move items which are too heavy.

Cuts, Lacerations Or Amputations

This may cover a wide range of injuries and degrees of severity. Cuts and lacerations may range from minor or modest injuries right through to deep wounds which damage tissue down to the bone. Cuts, lacerations and amputations could be caused by defective machinery and equipment, a lack of training or insufficient PPE. If a finger, hand or limb gets stuck in a machine, it could result in a traumatic amputation.

If you or a loved one has been harmed in a factory or warehouse, contact us to learn more about factory accident claims.

How Much Compensation For Warehouse Or Factory Accident Claims?

If you meet the eligibility criteria to make a factory accident injury claim, you may be wondering how much compensation you could be owed. Without assessing your individual circumstances, such as your injuries, we can not give a definitive compensation figure. However, we can tell you what will be considered when assigning value to your factory or warehouse accident claim.

Personal injury claims compensation may be awarded in two heads. These are general damages and special damages.

General damages compensate claimants for physical and psychological injuries they suffered in the factory accident. To work out what you may be entitled to, a personal injury solicitor (or other party involved in your claim) may review your medical records and compare these to guidelines from the Judicial College (JCG). This document provides a list of injuries alongside guideline compensation amounts.

InjurySeverityCompensation Guideline
Multiple, serious injuriesSerious or severeUp to £1,000,000+ with special damages.
Brain damageA - very severe£344,150 to £493,000
Paralysis injuriesB - paraplegia£267,340 to £346,890
Deafness/ tinnitusB - total deafness£110,750 to £133,810
Neck injuryA - severe - (ii)£80,240 to £159,770
Back injuryA - severe (ii)£90,510 to £107,910
Injuries to elbowA - severe, disabling£47,810 to £66,920
Wrist injuryB - resulting in permanent disability£29,900 to £47,810
Shoulder injuryB - serious£15,580 to £23,430
Hip injuryC - Lesser injuries (i)£4,820 to £15,370

Entries in the following table have been taken from the JCG with the exception of the top row. We present this figure to illustrate what may be awarded in a case of a severe injury where special damages were awarded.

How Can Compensation Help Me?

Successful factory accident claims may also be awarded compensation for the wider impact that an injury has had on a claimant. This head of claim is called special damages.

Whilst they are not automatically awarded (where general damages are) you could supply evidence such as:

  • Payslips and bank statements showing loss of earnings.
  • Invoices showing medical or medication costs you have incurred.
  • Travel tickets showing the cost of getting to and from medical appointments.
  • Invoices which show domestic care you have had to pay for.
  • Medical invoices for prosthetic limbs.

Who Pays The Compensation For An Industrial Accident?

If you make a factory accident compensation claim against your employer, you may be concerned that your compensation will come from them and impact the company. Typically, compensation is paid out by their employer’s liability insurance.

There is a legal requirement for employers to have an insurance policy in place to cover claims made by employees for workplace injuries.

One of our team members could help to analyse your case and explain how compensation for factory accident claims may be calculated.

A factory worker uses specialist tools.

Examples Of A Factory Accident Compensation Claim?

Here we present examples of when factory accident compensation claims could be made.

  • Factory machinery accidents could include an employee suffering hand injuries if it is caught in machinery which lacks proper safety guards.
  • An employee could sustain a severe back injury caused by lifting and carrying heavy objects without proper lifting equipment or training.
  • A factory worker could suffer burn injuries caused by equipment malfunctioning and overheating.
  • A worker in a warehouse could be struck by a reversing lift truck vehicle due to lack of training and visibility for the driver.

Can I Claim On Behalf Of A Loved One Who Was Injured In A Factory Accident?

If a loved one, such as a minor under the age of eighteen or someone who does not have sufficient mental capacity to claim themselves, has been harmed in a factory or warehouse accident, you could claim on their behalf.

Those without the mental capacity to claim or minors are unable to take legal action themselves. Instead, a suitable adult may become a litigation friend and act in their interests.

Our team could provide further information and advice on when you could claim on behalf of a loved one harmed in a factor accident. Contact us to learn more.

What Evidence Do I Need To Support My Work Accident Compensation Claim?

A crucial part of any personal injury claim is having the right proof or evidence. A strong body of evidence strengthens your case and ensures that you are fully compensated. This means not just being compensated for your injuries but also your financial losses.

Essential evidence which can help prove compensation claims includes:

  • Accident reports. Records from your workplace accident report book.
  • Medical records. This may document your injury, how it was treated and whether you will recover from it.
  • Witness statements. You could collect details of anyone who witnessed the accident and who may later provide a statement.
  • Photos & video. These could show the scene of the incident and/or visible injuries.
    Video.
  • A diary of symptoms. You could record the date, time and circumstances of your accident as well as notes on how your injury has affected you over time.

Having a strong body of evidence could make a significant difference to the outcome of your claim. You can get help gathering evidence for factory accident claims by contacting our advisors.

A worker drives a lift truck in a warehouse.

What Are The Time Limits For Starting Factory Injury Claims?

Another crucial factor you need to be aware of is the amount of time you have in which to start a claim. Under the Limitation Act 1980 claimants will generally have three years from the date of an accident in which to begin a claim.

In some cases, such as where you are claiming on behalf of someone else, this time limit may differ. For example, where a minor was harmed the time limit does not begin until they turn 18. Similarly, where a claimant does not have sufficient mental capacity to handle their claim, the time limit does not apply. It may be applied if they subsequently do regain their mental capacity.

To discuss time limits for starting factory accident claims, speak to a member of our team today.

Our No Win No Fee Factory Accident Claims Solicitors

We believe that whilst you do not have to use a solicitor when making a factory accident compensation claim, we believe that there are benefits to doing so. Our team understands that many people have concerns about the cost of taking legal action. As such, they could offer to take on your case under a Conditional Fee Agreement (CFA).

This means that you will not have to make any payments for their services unless you win your claim. You would also only pay for their services at the end of a claim with the fee (called a ‘success fee’) for their services being deducted from your compensation. Under law, there is a maximum percentage of your compensation which may be deducted.

If your claim is unsuccessful, there is nothing to pay for the work done on it. Hence, ‘No Win No Fee’.

Contact Us

No matter your factory or warehouse injury, we could help you claim compensation if someone else was at fault. Get in touch to learn more about claiming compensation on a No Win No Fee basis.

A solicitor explains how factory accident claims work

Learn More/More Information

Below you can find related workplace injury claim guides from across our site.

Here we have included helpful external references.

We hope after reading our guide you understand more about making warehouse and factory accident claims. Get in touch with our team to claim on behalf of yourself or a loved one.

Can I Sue The NHS For Birth Trauma?

Did you or your child suffer from injuries following a birthing trauma caused by medical professionals? If so, this guide will explain how you may be eligible to sue the NHS for birth trauma or claim compensation from a private healthcare facility with the help of our experienced medical negligence solicitors.

Key Takeaways On Suing The NHS For Birth Trauma

  • Birth trauma is a physical or psychological consequence of a traumatic birth. Both women and their children may suffer as a result of such trauma.
  • If a medical professional breached their duty of care, resulting in your birthing trauma, you may be eligible to sue.
  • Birth injury compensation awards depend on the extent of injuries sustained and financial losses incurred.
  • You typically have three years to start a medical negligence claim, although this rule has some exceptions.
  • Our experienced solicitors specialise in medical negligence claims and may help you claim compensation on a No Win No Fee basis.

To start your claim today, get in touch with our helpful advisors by:

Jump To A Section

  1. What Are Considered Birth Injuries?
  2. Can I Sue The NHS For A Birth Injury?
  3. Can I Sue The NHS For Birth Injury On Behalf Of My Child?
  4. How Much Compensation Could You Get For Birth Trauma?
  5. How Much Does It Cost To Make A Claim?
  6. How Can Legal Expert Help?
  7. More Information On Medical Negligence Claims

What Are Considered Birth Injuries? 

The pregnancy and birthing journey is different for all women. However, some women or their babies may experience injuries and trauma during birth. Birth injuries are any form of physical or mental suffering a mother or baby may sustain as a result of a birthing procedure.

Babies may suffer from birth injuries such as brain damage, fractures or nerve damage. Whereas mothers may suffer from birth injuries such as post-natal infections, perineal tears or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

During labour and delivery, it is not uncommon for both mother and baby to suffer some form of injury. However, if you or your baby has suffered from a birth injury because you believe the healthcare team looking after you were negligent, get in touch with our helpful advisors today to find out if you are eligible to claim birth trauma compensation.

Can I Sue The NHS For A Birth Injury?

If you or your baby have suffered from a birth injury, you may be able to sue the NHS for birth trauma. However, you must meet the following eligibility criteria:

  • A medical professional must have owed you a duty of care
  • The medical professional must have breached this duty
  • This must have resulted in you or your baby suffering from avoidable or unnecessary harm

A duty of care is a specific legal obligation imposed on healthcare professionals who work privately and within the NHS. Healthcare professionals must meet the correct standard of care when treating their patients. If they are in breach of this duty during your birthing procedure, it may result in you or your baby suffering from avoidable or unnecessary harm, which you may be eligible to claim compensation for.

Healthcare professionals may be in breach of their duty during your labour for:

  • Failing to monitor the progression
  • Misinterpreting or misrecording results
  • Failing to attach or use equipment properly
  • Incorrect management of medication
  • Failure to report, diagnose or treat abnormalities

The Physical Effects Of Birth Trauma 

The majority of birth traumas result in physical injuries sustained by a mother, baby, or both. Depending on the nature of the trauma, injuries may be mild or severe with corresponding levels of suffering.

Some examples of physical birth injuries mothers may suffer include damage to organs caused by negligent caesarean sections, post-natal infections, a retained placenta and nervous shock. Whereas babies may suffer cerebral palsy, erb’s palsy, brain damage due to a lack of oxygen, fractures, nerve damage and more.

The Mental Effects Of Birth Trauma

Traumatic birthing procedures can be frightening, stressful and worrying for mothers. Therefore, as well as potentially causing physical injuries, birth traumas may also result in mothers suffering from psychological injuries. Some examples of the mental effects of birth trauma include:

Contact our advisors if you or your child suffered from medical negligence and you think you have good grounds to sue the NHS for birth trauma.

Woman lying in hospital bed after medical negligence caused trauma birth injury

Can I Sue The NHS For A Birth Injury On Behalf of My Child?

Under the Limitation Act 1980, you typically have three years to start a medical negligence claim when claiming for yourself. However, there are some exceptions to this rule. 

If your child has suffered from a birth injury caused by the negligent actions of a medical professional, you may be eligible to sue the NHS on their behalf. However, you must act as a litigation friend during the claims process. Litigation friends are appointed to act on behalf of those who are unable to go through the claims process because they are either minors (under eighteen) or lack mental capacity. 

For children, the three-year claim time limit will begin once they reach the age of eighteen. However, litigation friends may claim on their behalf anytime before this. Further, if your child lacks mental capacity, there will be no time limit on their claim unless they regain mental capacity.

What Kind Of Birth Injuries Could I Claim For On Behalf Of My Child?

If the negligent actions of a medical professional led to your traumatic birth, injuring your child, they may be entitled to compensation. Here are some examples of injuries you may claim on behalf of your child:

  • Brain damage – this may result in the baby suffering from a stroke or cerebral palsy due to a lack of oxygen in the brain
  • Erb’s palsy – this may be caused by shoulder dystocia
  • Broken bones, fractured bones or dislocated bones
  • Nerve damage or paralysis
  • Cord prolapse

What Happens To Compensation Awarded To My Child?

If you make a medical negligence claim on behalf of your child for trauma birth injuries and they are awarded compensation, you may ask ‘What happens to this award?’

Any compensation that is awarded to your child who is under the age of eighteen will go directly into a trust within the Court Funds Office. Once your child turns eighteen, they will have access to this reward.

What Happens To Compensation Awarded For Severe Injuries To Your Baby?

Your baby may have received a very serious birth injury. In these cases, typically the more severe the injury is, the greater amount of compensation. This will generally consider:

  • The impact on your life as a parent. For example, if you have to stop work due to needing to care for your child, you could be compensated for your income loss plus pension contributions.
  • Appropriate care and treatment for your child. This could include full time nursing care, home help carers, live in carers, and occupational therapies to help your child.
  • Home adaptations. For example, installing a wet room, wheelchair ramp, stairlift, or ensuring rooms are the right size to hold specialist equipment.
  • Specialist equipment and upgrades as your baby grows. For example, due to brain damage, your child may need a specialist bed and as they grow, this will need to become larger.

Every successful birth injury claim is unique. This means that the compensation awarded will be varied depending on the specifics of the case. Lump sums can be awarded to fund home adaptations or relocations as well as lost earnings. However, care costs could be awarded via periodical payments. This means that a payment will be made during each year of your baby’s life. Furthermore, as these periodical payments are index-linked, the amount will be adjusted as these costs change.

Get in touch with our friendly advisors to find out if you can sue the NHS for a birth injury on behalf of your child today.

How Much Compensation Could You Get For Birth Trauma?

If you or your child has suffered from a birth trauma, you may ask, ‘How much can you be compensated for a birth injury?’

The compensation you are awarded depends on the extent of your injuries and the financial losses this led you to incur. Therefore, medical negligence compensation is divided into two heads of claim: general damages and special damages.

General damages compensate you for the physical and psychological injuries you sustained. This head of claim is professionally calculated using documents provided by an independent medical assessor and guidelines presented by the Judicial College (JCG).

The JCG lists injuries and conditions accompanied by suggestive compensation brackets. The table below provides examples from the JCG, except for the top figure, of how compensation could be valued for birth injuries. However, these are guideline figures only; you are not guaranteed to receive these amounts.

Injury Compensation Guideline
Multiple Severe Injuries and Significant Financial LossesUp to £25 million or more
Very Severe Brain Damage£344,150 to £493,000
Moderate Brain Damage (i)£183,190 £267,340
Paraplegia£267,340 to £346,890
Female Reproductive Injuries (a)£140,210 to £207,260
Severe PTSD£73,050 to £122,850
Moderate PTSD£9,980 to £28,250
Serious Shoulder Injuries£15,580 to £23,430
Noticeable Laceration Scars or One Disfiguring Scar £9,560 to £27,740
Fractures to Tibia or Fibula or Soft Tissue InjuriesUp to £14,450

Does Medical Negligence Compensation Cover Financial Losses?

If you have incurred financial losses as a result of your birth injuries, you may be compensated for this under the head of claim special damages. However, you must have also suffered from a physical or mental injury.

Some examples of financial losses include:

  • Lost wages and income
  • Lost work benefits such as holiday entitlement, bonuses and pension contributions
  • Medical, recovery and travel costs
  • Costs towards home adjustments and special equipment

When claiming compensation for special damages, you must provide evidence of the losses you incurred, such as:

  • Payslips
  • Medical bills
  • Receipts

Contact our friendly advisors today for more information on birth injury compensation.

New born baby in hospital after a traumatic birth procedure caused by medical negligence

How Much Does It Cost To Make A Claim?

If you or your child sustained injuries following a traumatic birth, you may want to start a medical negligence claim to be compensated for the suffering this has caused. However, you may have many questions regarding the financial impact this may have on you.

Many people believe you must pay extensive fees when making a claim. However, with Legal Expert, you can get free legal advice when contacting us about the details of your medical negligence.

If your advisors determine that you meet the claims eligibility criteria, our solicitors may help you claim compensation on a No Win No Fee basis. Therefore, you do not need to worry about the cost of legal representation with our solicitors.

What Is A No Win No Fee Arrangement?

Our medical negligence solicitors operate on a No Win No Fee basis. They provide their No Win No Fee services under a Conditional Fee Agreement (CFA). This contract determines the financial side of legal representation and may benefit you in many ways.

If the claim has a successful outcome, your solicitor will take their success fee out of your compensation. This is a small percentage that is subject to a legislative cap. On the other hand, if your claim is unsuccessful, you are not asked to pay our solicitors for the work they have completed on your claim.

Contact our helpful advisors for more information on No Win No Fee claims or to start yours today.

How Can Legal Expert Help?

If you want to claim compensation for suffering caused by birth trauma, our solicitors at Legal Expert wish to help you if you are eligible to make a claim. Our solicitors may help you by:

  • Walking you through the birth injury claims process and providing independent legal advice
  • Explaining key legal terminology and documents
  • Explain birth injury compensation
  • Helping you obtain evidence and using this to build your case
  • Contacting third parties and negotiating settlements on your behalf

Get In Touch Today

To start your claim today, get in touch with our helpful advisors by:

Medical negligence solicitor and client discussing birth injury compensation claims

More Information On Medical Negligence Claims

Visit the links below to learn more about medical negligence claims:

References:

We appreciate you finding the time to read this guide that explains how to sue the NHS for birth trauma. 

How To Claim Compensation For An Ovarian Cancer Misdiagnosis

Whether you were treated by the NHS or a private hospital, you should never be left suffering as a result of substandard care. In this guide, we’ll explain everything that you need to know about claiming compensation for ovarian cancer misdiagnosis, and how our expert solicitors could help.

Key Takeaways In Ovarian Cancer Misdiagnosis Claims

  • Ovarian cancer is the 6th most common cancer among women in the UK
  • Ovarian cancer can be misdiagnosed as gallstones, IBS, or heavy menstrual periods
  • You need to start your claim within three years of the medical negligence taking place
  • Medical negligence can occur within the NHS and in the private sector
  • You could work with an expert solicitor under a No Win No Fee agreement

Our team of advisors are here to help. They can answer any questions you may have about the cancer misdiagnosis claims process, get in touch today by:

A woman suffering from ovarian cancer symptoms such as abdominal pain lays in a hospital bad

Select A Section

  1. Can I Make A Claim For Ovarian Cancer Misdiagnosis Claim?
  2. What Is Ovarian Cancer?
  3. Common Causes Of Ovarian Cancer Misdiagnosis
  4. What Could Ovarian Cancer Be Misdiagnosed As?
  5. How Much Compensation Could You Get For Medical Negligence?
  6. Time Limits In Cancer Misdiagnosis Claims
  7. Funding Options In Ovarian Cancer Misdiagnosis Claims
  8. More Information

Can I Make A Claim For Ovarian Cancer Misdiagnosis Claim?

To be eligible to claim ovarian cancer misdiagnosis compensation, you need to be able to establish medical negligence. To explain what medical negligence is, we first need to talk about duty of care.

When you receive treatment from a medical professional, they immediately owe you a duty of care. This means that the care you receive must meet a minimum standard. This duty of care applies to all medical professionals, but different disciplines may need to follow different steps.

For example, the General Medical Council (GMC) sets out professional standards for registered doctors, and the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC)  discusses professional standards for nurses and midwives. While these may include different steps, the duty of care remains the same, and they all must provide treatment that meets the minimum standard.

Medical negligence occurs when:

  • A medical professional owes you a duty of care
  • They breach this duty
  • You suffer unnecessary harm as a result

Harm can be unavoidable in some medical settings. For example, if you have cancer and need chemotherapy to recover, you wouldn’t be able to claim for the side effects of this treatment. This is because the harm is necessary to aid your recovery.

Our advisors can tell you whether or not you could have a valid ovarian cancer misdiagnosis claim when you get in touch.

What Is Ovarian Cancer?

Ovarian cancer happens when there are abnormal cells in the ovaries, and these grow uncontrollably into the surrounding tissue and organs. It can also spread throughout the body to other organs.

How Common Is Ovarian Cancer?

Ovarian cancer can affect anyone with ovaries, though the risk of developing it grows the older you get, with risk peaking between 75 and 79-year-olds. According to statistics published by Cancer Research UK, around 7,500 women are diagnosed with ovarian cancer every year in the UK. This makes it the 6th most common cancer in women.

Common Causes Of Ovarian Cancer Misdiagnosis

So, how could medical negligence result in an ovarian cancer misdiagnosis? Some examples of how this could occur can include:

  • You visit your GP surgery, showing clear symptoms of ovarian cancer. However, instead of ordering more tests, your doctor tells you it’s just period pain and sends you home. This delays your treatment and causes it to spread, making your symptoms worse.
  • A doctor misreads your test results that clearly show the presence of cancerous tumours in your ovaries, and they diagnose you with kidney stones instead. This allows the cancer to spread past the point of effective treatment.
  • When you express your concerns to your doctor, they tell you you are too young to have cancer, and misdiagnose you with PCOS without fully listening to your symptoms. This not only causes physical harm, but also affects your mental health.

If you can’t see what happened to you reflected in these examples, you may still be able to claim. Contact our team today to learn more.

A woman with epithelial ovarian cancer suffers a delayed diagnosis in the early stages, and gest treatment from a doctor

What Could Ovarian Cancer Be Misdiagnosed As?

Ovarian cancer can be misdiagnosed as a number of different illnesses and conditions, including:

  • Poly-Cystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)
  • Endometriosis
  • Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
  • Gallstones
  • Kidney stones
  • Period pain

If you were harmed because your ovarian cancer was misdiagnosed as something else, contact our team of advisors today.

How Much Compensation Could You Get For Medical Negligence?

If you make a successful cancer misdiagnosis claim, then you will receive general damages. This is one of two potential heads of claim that can make up your medical negligence compensation.

General damages provide compensation for the pain and suffering you’ve endured as a result of medical negligence. This includes both the physical and mental effects of the misdiagnosis, but it also includes loss of amenity, which essentially means the effect it has had on your quality of life.

When this head of claim is calculated, the Judicial College Guidelines can be used to help. This document lists common injuries and illnesses beside guideline compensation brackets.

The table below contains some examples of JCG brackets alongside the top figure, which isn’t from the JCG.

InjuryCompensation Bracket
Severe harm and financial losses, like lost earnings or the cost of mobility aidsUp to £1,000,000+
Severe Psychiatric Damage£66,920 to £141,240
Severe PTSD£73,050 to £122,850
Female Reproductive Injuries (a)£140,210 to £207,260
Female Reproductive Injuries (b)£52,490 to £124,620
Female Reproductive Injuries (c)£68,440 to £87,070
Female Reproductive Injuries (d)£21,920 to £44,840
Female Reproductive Injuries (e)£8,060 to £22,800
Mental Anguish£5,700

What Are Special Damages?

Special damages cover the financial losses that the misdiagnosis has caused you. Some examples of financial losses caused by ovarian cancer misdiagnosis can include the cost of:

  • Lost earnings
  • Childcare
  • Travel to and from appointments
  • Private healthcare to avoid NHS waiting times
  • Prescriptions
  • Home adjustments
  • Mobility aids

To prove these losses, you can keep records of what you spend and save any relevant receipts, bank statements, or invoices.

Contact our team today if you’d like to learn more about compensation in cancer misdiagnosis claims, or keep reading for more information.

An ovarian cancer compensation calculator

Time Limits In Cancer Misdiagnosis Claims 

To make a valid claim, you need to make sure that you start proceedings within the time limit. This is generally three years, starting on the date that you were misdiagnosed, as per the Limitation Act 1980.

Alternatively, this time limit could begin on the date you first became aware that the harm you suffered was caused by a medical professional breaching their duty of care. This is often referred to as the date of knowledge.

However, you may still be able to claim if you fall outside of this time limit. There are some exceptions to the rule, which apply to:

  • Under eighteens: While under the age of eighteen, you can’t claim for yourself. However, a litigation friend can make a claim on your behalf at any time up until you turn eighteen. If a litigation friend doesn’t start proceedings, you can make your own claim between your eighteenth and twenty-first birthdays.
  • Those lacking the needed mental capacity: For those who lack the mental capacity needed to make a medical negligence claim, the time limit doesn’t apply, and a litigation friend can start proceedings at any time.

If you’d like to learn more about time limits in ovarian cancer misdiagnosis claims, contact our team today.

Funding Options In Ovarian Cancer Misdiagnosis Claims

Many people think that making a claim with a legal expert is expensive, but it doesn’t have to be. Our expert medical negligence solicitors all work under the terms of a Conditional Fee Agreement (CFA), which means that they can help you:

  • Collect evidence to prove your claim
  • Communicate with the defendant
  • Negotiate a settlement
  • Understand each step as it happens
  • File your claim within the time limit

All without asking for upfront or ongoing payment for their services. Under this type of No Win No Fee arrangement, your solicitor will only take a success fee if you make a successful claim. This fee is a small percentage of your compensation, which is capped by law and taken directly from what you receive.

Contact Us

To find out if one of our expert No Win No Fee solicitors could help you make an ovarian cancer misdiagnosis claim, contact us today by:

A breast and ovarian cancer diagnosis solicitor discusses claims against healthcare providers

More Information

To learn more about making a medical negligence claim:

Or, to find more resources:

Thank you for reading our guide on making ovarian cancer misdiagnosis compensation claims.

Learn How Much Compensation For Losing A Leg You Could Receive

Losing a leg either traumatically in an accident or surgically following an accident due to the extent of your injuries can be devasting. You may be unable to participate in previous hobbies or return to work, leading to emotional distress and financial losses. Therefore, you may be wondering, ‘How much compensation for losing a leg could I claim?’. In this guide, we discuss when you could make a claim for personal injury compensation.

Key Takeaways In Leg Amputation Claims

  • Your compensation can depend on the placement of the amputation, the success of prosthetics, and psychological effects
  • If you can prove that you lost your leg as a result of the negligent actions of another, then you may be able to make a personal injury claim
  • Losing a leg can have a severe mental, physical, and financial impact
  • You could potentially make a claim on someone else’s behalf by acting as a litigation friend
  • A No Win No Fee solicitor could help you make a leg amputation claim

Keep reading to learn more, or get in touch with a member of our helpful team to get started by:

A surgeon removing a limb after a serious accident

Select A Section

  1. How Much Compensation For Losing A Leg?
  2. Who Can Make Leg Amputation Claims?
  3. How Could Someone Lose A Leg?
  4. The Impacts Of Leg Amputation
  5. Claiming On Behalf Of Someone Else
  6. Why Work With Legal Expert On Your Claim?
  7. More Information

How Much Compensation For Losing A Leg?

A common question that we receive is, “How much compensation could I get for losing a leg?” This can be a difficult question to answer, because the amount that you could receive is affected by factors such as:

  • How much evidence you have to support your claim
  • The level of amputation and disability
  • Whether you have success with prosthetics
  • Whether the other party accepts liability for your injuries
  • The way your injury has affected you financially

Because these circumstances can determine how much you receive, every payout is different. But all successful claims will result in general damages. This is one of two different types of compensation that come together to form your final payout.

General damages address the pain and suffering caused by your injuries, as well as loss of amenity. This means it takes into account the way the amputation has affected your ability to enjoy your life and hobbies.

When professionals value this head of your claim, they might use the Judicial College Guidelines (JCG), which is a document that contains a list of injuries and illnesses, including leg amputations, alongside guideline brackets of compensation.

In the list below, you can find some examples of these brackets that could be relevant to a leg amputation claim. However, please be aware that these are not guaranteed, and that the first entry is not from the JCG.

  • Multiple severe injuries with special damages – for financial losses such as lost earnings and medical costs – Up to £1,00,000+
  • Loss of both Legs – either both lost above the knee or one above and one below – £292,850 to £344,150
  • Below-knee amputation of both legs – factors such as associated psychological issues and phantom pains will impact the amount awarded – £245,900 to £329,620
  • Above-knee amputation of one leg – the level of amputation and any issues with the remaining stump will impact the compensation awarded – £127,930 to £167,760
  • Below-knee amputation of one leg – traumatic amputations from an accident are applicable to the higher end of this bracket – £119,570 to £162,290
  • Severe psychiatric damage – the prognosis, future vulnerability and effect on relationships will be taken into consideration – £66,920 to £141,240
  • Severe Post-traumatic stress disorder – permanent effects will prevent the person from functioning as they did pre-trauma – £73,050 to £122,850

Special Damages

Special damages are the second type of compensation that you could potentially receive. Losing a leg can have a significant impact on your finances, from paying for prosthetics to the cost of future medical treatments.

In some cases, you may able to claim these losses back under special damages, as well as the cost of:

  • Childcare
  • Lost wages
  • Prescriptions
  • Home adjustments
  • Mobility aids
  • Counselling

Evidence needs to be provided to be able to claim special damage for these costs. This could include payslips, invoices and bank statements.

To learn more about how much compensation for losing a leg you could potentially receive, contact our team today.

Who Can Make Leg Amputation Claims?

Now that we have discussed how much compensation for losing a leg you could potentially receive, you need to know when you could be eligible to make leg amputation claims. To form the basis of a valid claim, you need to be able to prove that negligence has occurred. In terms of personal injury law, negligence means that:

  • Someone else owed you a duty of care
  • This duty was breached
  • You were harmed as a result

Negligence can happen anywhere, from the workplace to a supermarket, as long as someone else owes you a duty of care. But what does this mean?

  • When you’re at work, your employer owes you a duty of care. This means that they need to take all reasonably practicable steps to keep you safe, as per the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 (HASAWA).
  • While in public, whoever is in control of that space owes you a duty of care. This means that they need to take all practicable steps to ensure your reasonable safety while you’re visiting the premises, as per the Occupiers’ Liability Act 1957.
  • All road users owe and are owed a duty of care. This applies to anyone using the roads, and it means that they need to prevent causing harm or damage. They must also adhere to the Road Traffic Act 1988 and the Highway Code,

Keep reading to see some examples of how a duty of care could be breached. Or, to find out how much compensation for losing a leg you could receive, contact our team today.

How Could Someone Lose A Leg?

Now we’ve explained what a duty of care is, let’s look at some examples of how a breach in this duty could lead to losing a leg.

  • At work: If you work with heavy machinery, it’s your employer’s responsibility to ensure that this is properly maintained. If your employer asks you to work with a piece of machinery that they know is defective or broken, and this results in you losing a leg, then you may be able to make a claim.
  • In public: A balcony railing in a public shopping center is broken. Management know this, but they do not attempt to have it fixed or signpost the danger to the public. This causes a shopper to fall through it, fracturing their leg so severely it must be amputated.
  • On the roads: While using a zebra crossing as a pedestrian, a car drives through a red light and hits you. This results in both of your legs being amputated.

The examples above are only a few ways in which negligence can occur. To find out if you have a valid personal injury claim, contact our team of advisors today.

A nurse wrapping gauze around an amputee's leg

The Impacts Of Leg Amputation

Losing a leg can have a severe impact on your physical and mental health, but it can also impact your finances. For example, leg amputation can lead to:

  • Mental health struggles, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression
  • Phantom pains
  • Joint problems
  • Scarring
  • Out-of-pocket financial losses, for example, lost wages and the cost of prosthetic limbs

What Is An Interim Payment?

In cases where your claim has a high chance of succeeding, you may be able to apply for an interim payment. These are used to help those who have immediate expenses caused by their injuries by providing a percentage of the expected compensation upfront. Then, when the claim is resolved, the amount received as an interim payment is deducted from the final amount.

If you think you could be eligible for an interim payment, or if you’d like to learn more, get in touch with one of our advisors today.

Claiming On Behalf Of Someone Else

You might be wondering if you could make a loss of leg claim on behalf of someone else. In some cases, you may be able to claim on a loved one’s behalf as a litigation friend.

To act as a litigation friend, you need to be approved by the court. Then, it would be your responsibility to:

  • Act in the claimant’s best interests
  • Make all efforts to make the claimant aware of what’s happening, and find out how they feel about the proceedings
  • Communicate with and work with their solicitor

When Can You Claim For Someone Else?

You can act as a litigation for someone who:

  • Is under the age of eighteen, up until their eighteenth birthday
  • Lacks the needed mental capacity to claim for themselves

To find out if you could act as a litigation friend for someone else, contact our team of advisors today. Or, keep reading to learn more about making a leg amputation claim.

An amputee in gauze after losing a limb

Why Work With Legal Expert On Your Claim?

We understand that the personal injury claims process can seem difficult, and that legal terminology can be overwhelming. However, you don’t need to go through the claims process alone; many people choose to make their claim with the help of a solicitor.

At Legal Expert, our solicitors have many years of experience in personal injury law. They can help you with every aspect of your claim, including:

  • Negotiating a settlement
  • Ensuring your claim is filed within the time limit
  • Gathering evidence to prove your claim
  • Communicating with the defendant
  • Arranging an independent medical assessment
  • Going to court, if this becomes necessary

And they can do all of this without taking any upfront or ongoing payments for their work. This is because our solicitors work on a No Win No Fee basis, and work with clients under a Conditional Fee Agreement. Under a CFA, you don’t need to pay anything for their work, and only pay a success fee if your claim succeeds. This fee is a small, legally-capped percentage of your compensation.

Contact Our Team

If you’d like to learn more about how much compensation for losing a leg you could potentially receive, or if you’d like to find out how our solicitors could help you, get in touch today by:

A lost limb compensation claims solicitor discusses making an amputation injury claim with a client

More Information

For more helpful personal injury guides:

Or, to find further resources:

Thank you for reading our guide. We hope we’ve answered the question, “How much compensation for losing a leg could I receive?”

Our Research Into Drink-Driving Offences

The latest data released by the Department for Transport in 2024 revealed that UK drink-driving deaths have hit a 13-year-high.

There were an estimated 300 deaths where at least one driver was over the legal blood-alcohol limit in 2022, the latest year for which official figures are available. This is the highest annual figure since 2009. 

The number is 16 per cent higher than in 2021 and means drink-drive fatalities accounted for about 18 per cent of all deaths, bucking the general long-term trend for safer roads and more responsible driving.

Legal Expert’s Road Traffic Accident Specialist, Tracy Chick says: “It is deeply concerning that drink-drive-related deaths have reached their highest level since 2009. Anyone who drinks and drives is putting the lives of all road users at risk.

“The impact of drink-driving can be devastating not only for victims who have been killed or suffered life-changing injuries but also for the drivers facing serious legal consequences – it is such an avoidable offence and there is no excuse for drinking and getting behind the wheel.

“Throughout my legal career, I have worked with victims and families of drink-driving collisions and the impact is immense. Thankfully, I’ve been able to bring even a small comfort by securing them the compensation they deserve to help to start to rebuild their lives.”

How Legal Expert Can Help

Here at Legal Expert, we specialise in road traffic accident claims and have significant experience in cases involving drunk drivers. If you’d like free advice on your case, get in touch with us today. We provide a consultation where you can get guidance on your situation and your rights.

Drunk young man with a beard with a bottle of beer in his hand behind the wheel of a car. Emergency situation, violation of law, drunk driving

Get Help With Claiming Compensation For Drunk Driving Accidents

If you’ve been involved in a car accident with a drunk driver, then you could claim compensation for any injuries and damage to your property.

We’ve compiled a comprehensive guide on drunk driving accident compensation claims, which you can view here.

You can also contact us for free legal advice by calling us on the number at the top of this page.

How We Conducted Our Research Into Drink Driving Offences

Following an influx of inquiries from victims of drink-driving collisions from across the UK, Legal Expert set out to investigate to the extent of the issue and to find the most prevelant areas for drink-driving offences in the UK.

We sent out Freedom of Information Requests to every UK Police Force asking for the number of drink-driving offences recorded in the last three years (between December 1st – November 31st, 2021/22, 2022/23 and 2023/24).

We also asked of those, how many drivers were charged.

For the last year alone, 2023/24, we also asked for the age and gender of the suspect and the areas in which the offence took place.

See below for the results in your area.

The Results Of Our Research Into Drink-Driving

National Findings

UK's 10 Drink-driving hotspots Infographic

UK’s 10 Drink-driving hotspots

Avon and Somerset Police

Drink_Driving Offences Avon & Somerset Infographic Statistics

Avon & Somerset Police

No. of drink-driving offences (between 2021-2024) | 6,151

No. of charges | 3,400 (55%)

Most Common Age Group | 16-35 (48%)

Gender | Male 82%

Bedfordshire Police

Drink-Driving Offences Bedfordshire Infographic Statistics

Bedfordshire Police

No. of drink-driving arrests (between 2021-2024) | 1,763

No. of charges | 1,102 (63%)

For 2023/24:

Most Common Age Group | 16-35 48%

Gender | Female (88) | Male (426) 83%

Cambridgeshire Police

Drink-Driving Offences Cambridgeshire Infographic Statistics

Cambridgeshire Police

No. of drink-driving arrests (between 2021-2024) | 1,881

No. of charges | 1,203 (64%)

Most Common Age Group | 31-40 32%

Gender | Female (288) | Male (1584) 84%

Cheshire Constabulary

Drink-Driving Arrests Cheshire infographic Statistics

Cheshire Police

No. of drink-driving arrests (between 2021-2024) | 3,160

No. of charges | 2,543 (80%)

Most Common Age Group | 26-35 (28%)

Gender | Female (199) | Male (751) 79%

Cheshire Drink-driving hotspots

Cheshire Drink-driving hotspots

Cleveland Police

Drink-Driving Offences Cleveland Infographic Statistics

Cleveland Police

No. of drink-driving arrests (between 2021-2024) | 1,736

No. of charges | 823 (47%)

For 2023/24: 

Most Common Age Group | 31-40 (33%)

Gender | Female (128) | Male (463) 78%

Cleveland Drink-driving hotspots

Cleveland Drink-driving hotspots

Cumbria Constabulary

Drink-Driving Arrests Cumbria infographic Statistics

Cumbria Police

No. of drink-driving arrests (between 2021-2024) | 1,620

No. of charges | 1,214 (75%)

For 2023/24: 

Most Common Age Group | 30-49 (50%)

Gender | Female (126) | Male (395) 76%

Devon and Cornwall

Devon & Cornwall Police

No. of drink-driving arrests (between 2021-2024) | 7,497

No. of charges | 4,703 (63%)

For 2023/24: 

Most Common Age Group | 25-34

Gender | Female (593) | Male (2,232) 78%

Devon & Cornwall DrinkDrug-driving hotspots

Dorset Police

Drink-Driving Offences Dorset Infographic Statistics

Dorset Police

No. of drink-driving arrests (between 2021-2024) | 1,752

No. of charges | 1,494 (75%)

For 2023/24:

Most Common Age Group | 25-34 (21%)

Gender | Female (90) | Male (463) 78%

Dorset Drink-driving hotspots

Dorset Drink-driving hotspots

Durham Constabulary

Drink-Driving Arrests Durham infographic Statistics

Durham Police

No. of drink-driving arrests (between 2021-2024) | 1,951

No. of charges | 1,172 (60%)

For 2023/24:

Most Common Age Group | 30-39 (47%)

Gender | Female (153) | Male (464) 75%

Essex Police

Drink-Driving Arrests Essex infographic Statistics

Essex Police

No. of drink-driving arrests (between 2021-2024) | 4,623

No. of charges | 3,071 (66%)

For 2023/24:

Most Common Age Group | 31-35 (16%)

Gender | Female (295) | Male (1,198) 80%

Essex Drink-driving hotspots

Essex Drink-driving hotspots

Gloucestershire Constabulary

Drink-Driving Arrests Gloucestershire infographic Statistics

Gloucestershire Police

No. of drink-driving offences (between 2021-2024) | 1,604

No. of charges | 1,172

For 2023/24:

Most Common Age Group | 30-49 (49%)

Gender | Female (106) | Male (519) 80%

Gwent Police

Drink-Driving Arrests Gwent infographic Statistics

Gwent Police

No. of drink-driving offences (between 2021-2024) | 2,008

No. of charges | 1,225 (61%)

For 2023/24:

Most Common Age Group | 26-35 (33%)

Gender | Female (69) | Male (545) 84%

Gwent Drink-driving hotspots

Gwent Drink-driving hotspots

Hertfordshire Police

Hertfordshire Police

Hertfordshire Police

No. of drink-driving offences (between 2021-2024) | 2,621

For 2023/24:

Most Common Age Group | 25-34 (32%)

Gender | Female (115) | Male (478) 81%

Hertfordshire Drink-driving hotspots

Hertfordshire Drink-driving hotspots

Lancashire Constabulary

Lancashire Police

Lancashire Police

No. of drink-driving offences (between 2021-2024) | 4,948

For 2023/24:

Most Common Age Group | 31-40 (32%)

Gender | Female (985) | Male (3937) 80%

Lancashire Drink-driving hotspots

Lancashire Drink-driving hotspots

Lincolnshire Police

Lincolnshire Police

Lincolnshire Police

No. of drink-driving offences (between 2021-2024) | 2,488

No. of charges | 1,878 (75%)

For 2023/24:

Most Common Age Group | 46-55 (42%)

Gender | Female (133) | Male (638) 81%

Lincolnshire Drink-driving hotspots

Lincolnshire Drink-driving hotspots

Norfolk Police

Norfolk Police

Norfolk Police

No. of drink-driving offences (between 2021-2024) | 2,835

No. of charges | 1,752 (62%)

For 2023/24:

Most Common Age Group | 26-35 (30%)

Gender | Female (178) | Male (680) 79%

Northern Ireland (PSNI)

Drink-Driving Arrests Northern Ireland infographic Statistics

Northern Ireland PSNI

No. of drink-driving arrests (between 2021-2024) | 9,413

No. of charges | 7,805 (83%)

For 2023/24:

Most Common Age Group | 30-49 (55%)

Gender | Female (494) | Male (2080) 81%

Northern Ireland Drink-driving hotspots

Northern Ireland Drink-driving hotspots

Northamptonshire Police

Northamptonshire Police

Northamptonshire Police

No. of drink-driving arrests (between 2021-2024) | 2,936

No. of charges | 2,221 (76%)

For 2023/24:

Most Common Age Group | 26-35

Gender | Female (135) | Male (786) 85%

Northamptonshire Drink-driving hotspots

Northamptonshire Drink-driving hotspots

Northumbria Police

Drink-Driving Offences Northumbria Infographic Statistics

Northumbria Police

No. of drink-driving offences (between 2021-2024) | 1,237

No. of charges | 505 (41%)

For 2023/24:

Most Common Age Group | 26-30 (14%)

Gender | Female (34) | Male (160) 82%

Northumbria Drink-driving hotspots

Northumbria Drink-driving hotspots

North Wales Police

North Wales Police

North Wales Police

No. of drink-driving offences (between 2021-2024) | 2,766

No. of charges | 645 (23%)

For 2023/24:

Most Common Age Group | 36-45 (37%)

Gender | Female (166) | Male (595) 78%

North Wales Drink-driving hotspots

North Wales Drink-driving hotspots

North Yorkshire

North Yorkshire Police

North Yorkshire Police

No. of drink-driving offences (between 2021-2024) | 2,474

No. of charges | 1,687 (76%)

Most Common Age Group | 18-34 (47%)

Gender | Female (495) | Male (1,950) 79%

North Yorkshire Drink-driving hotspots

North Yorkshire Drink-driving hotspots

Police Scotland

Police Scotland

Police Scotland

No. of drink/drug-driving offences (between 2021-2024) | 16,273

Most Common Age Group | 35-44 (29%)

Gender | Female (1,042) | Male (4,002) 79%

South Wales Police

South Wales Police

South Wales Police

No. of drink-driving offences (between 2021-2024) | 3,333

No. of charges | 2,597 (78%)

For 2023/24:

Most Common Age Group | 25-34 (31%)

Gender | Female (244) | Male (743) 75%

South Wales Drink-driving hotspots

South Wales Drink-driving hotspots

South Yorkshire Police

South Yorkshire Police

South Yorkshire Police

No. of drink-driving arrests (between 2021-2024) | 3,201

No. of charges | 2,440 (76%)

For 2023/24:

Most Common Age Group | 31-60 (67%)

Gender | Female (199) | Male (863) 81%

Staffordshire Police

Staffordshire Police

Staffordshire Police

No. of drink-driving arrests (between 2021-2024) | 2,379

No. of charges | 1,615 (68%)

For 2023/24:

Most Common Age Group | 30-49 (50%)

Gender | Female (141) | Male (660) 82%

Staffordshire Drink-driving hotspots

Staffordshire Drink-driving hotspots

Suffolk Police

Suffolk Police

Suffolk Police

Surrey Police

Surrey Police

Surrey Police

No. of drink-driving arrests (between 2021-2024) | 3,007

No. of charges | 2,244 (75%)

For 2023/24:

Most Common Age Group | 30-34 (15%)

Gender | Female (140) | Male (568) 80%

Sussex Police

Sussex Police

Sussex Police

No. of drink-driving arrests (between 2021-2024) | 2,887

No. of charges | 1,875 (64%)

For 2023/24:

Most Common Age Group | 31-40 (26%)

Gender | Female (123) | Male (473) 79%

Thames Valley Police

Thames Valley Police

Thames Valley Police

No. of drink-driving arrests (between 2023-2024) | 2,150

For 2023/24:

Most Common Age Group | 30-39 (31%)

Gender | Female (325) | Male (1819) 85%

West Midlands

West Midlands Police

West Midlands Police

No. of drink-driving arrests (between 2021-2024) | 7,270

No. of charges | 4,303 (59%)

For 2023/24:

Most Common Age Group | 20-29 (35%)

Gender | Female (275) | Male (1998) 85%

West Yorkshire

West Yorkshire Police

West Yorkshire Police

No. of drink-driving arrests (between 2021-2024) | 7,254

No. of charges | 5,685 (78%)

For 2023/24:

Most Common Age Group | 18-34 (43%)

Gender | Female (419) | Male (1751) 80%

West Yorkshire Drink-driving hotspots

West Yorkshire Drink-driving hotspots

Wiltshire Police

Wiltshire Drink-driving hotspots

Wiltshire Drink-driving hotspots

No. of drink-driving arrests (between 2021-2024) | 1,903

For 2023/24:

Gender | Female (103) | Male (471) 82%