The compensation process

Every compensation claim is different, but we always use the same approach to make sure you receive the very best service.

Making a claim for compensation may appear daunting but when you work with us, you will be in safe and experienced hands.

We will advise and assist you every step of the way to achieve the results you want, quickly and efficiently, no matter how complex the claim may be.

No two claims are the same, so some will be resolved and completed in a few months, some in a year and some may take even longer, depending on the complexity of the case and your own situation.

Your claim cannot be settled until medical experts have assessed what the future is likely to hold for you, in terms of recovery, any residual problems you may suffer and what support you will need. By gathering together the best evidence, we can help make your claim even stronger.

Early stages

Most claims begin with a free, initial consultation with a member of our team. At this first meeting, we will discuss what has happened and establish whether you will be able to make a claim and what level of success you can expect.

If your claim merits further investigation, we will begin to gather all the necessary evidence – including medical evidence and supporting assessments undertaken by medical experts – to help build your case.

We will then work to establish the losses and expenses you have incurred as a direct result of your accident.

Once we have been able to identify who should be claimed against, we will inform them of your intention to claim, usually through their insurers or solicitors.
As the two sides negotiate towards a settlement, we will represent your best interests throughout. Many cases are resolved at this stage.

The courtroom

If negotiations are not successful, we will issue proceedings to take the case to the next level. As part of the preparation process, the defence team will submit a legal document outlining any arguments it intends to rely on. You will need to supply any documentation that helps support your claim as appropriate.

We will also get witness statements relevant to your claim, as will the defence team. If these do not correlate, those witnesses will be called to give further evidence at the trial itself.

If a case is straightforward, the only expert evidence might be from a single medical expert. However, in more complex cases more experts might be required and medical experts might also be joined by accountants, therapists or other people who can indicate how the accident has affected you and will continue to affect you.

Although the court will create a timetable to help the process move forward, it is not unusual for this timetable to slip as the case continues to develop.

At the trial itself, the judge will hear evidence presented and make a decision, outlining where the blame lies and how much should be awarded as compensation, if appropriate.

For more information on how we can help you, please contact us on 01702 339222 or at pi@btmk.co.uk