Driver Making Phone Call After Traffic Accident

How to Make a Road Traffic Accident Claim

March 28, 2024/in , , /by

Road traffic accidents can happen at any time, anywhere, to anyone. You can try to avoid them as much as possible, but sometimes it is simply not in your control to avoid them. In incidents such as these, you will have to follow a few steps to ensure that you and your loved ones are safe and then claim for the damages you have faced.

An accident claim lawyer such as us at Bonnar Accident Law will ensure that you get the compensation claim that you deserve. Assessing the situation, the road traffic accident, and how it affected you, the personal injury lawyer will do their utmost to ensure you are compensated appropriately.

How to claim compensation for a road traffic accident in Scotland

Keep in mind that a road traffic accident (RTA) can result in injuries as minor as relatively mild whiplash to life-threatening multiple fractures. These may also include critical-care spinal or head injuries, and at worst, may lead to an unfortunate fatality.

Our personal injury solicitors are equipped with the expertise and experience to accurately value every RTA claim. We manage every case to a successful conclusion, no matter how complex or difficult it may be.

A few simple steps to take immediately following a minor road traffic accident

Here are a few steps you should immediately take following a road traffic accident:

  • Check for injuries
    Check yourself and your passengers for any injuries. Don’t make sudden movements in case of a puncture wound or a fracture. Slowly get up into a comfortable position. If you or any other passenger is hurt, don’t hesitate to call for medical assistance. Even a fraction of time can make a life-changing difference when it comes to medical emergencies.
  • Move to a safe location
    If your car, bike or vehicle is drivable, pull over to the emergency lane if it is safe to do so. You should attempt to move your vehicle if it may cause a further potential road hazard. Ensure you have your hazard warning lights turned on to let traffic know that your vehicle has made an emergency stop.
  • Document the accident
    If you have your phone or tablet device handy, take photographs of the crash scene. This photographic evidence will help to support your compensation claim and will be useful for your insurance. The evidence should include photos of all involved vehicles taken from different angles. Be sure to photograph licence plates, visible damage, and the surrounding streets/areas of the incident.
  • Call the police
    Always call the police to the scene of a road traffic accident, no matter how minor it may seem. The police report will help the insurance companies determine which party will be responsible for the damages incurred. Also, a police record will keep every legal documentation in line for you.
  • Exchange information
    If there is another vehicle or driver involved, make sure you exchange your information with them. This should include contact details and insurance information.
  • Look for witnesses
    If the road traffic accident happened in the presence and line of sight of people nearby, do ask them to provide you with a statement, if they can. Ask the likes of shop owners, pedestrians, other vehicle owners and drivers. It’s good practice to ask them to stay on the scene to provide a statement to the police when they arrive.
  • Report the accident
    Always report the road traffic accident, no matter how minor, to the police as soon as possible. Reportable road traffic collisions have to be logged as soon as practicable or within 24 hours, in any case.

Hammer gavel judge with car vehicle accident, insurance coverage claim lawsuit court case.

How to make an RTA compensation claim if you are:

  • Car and other vehicle drivers

In a road traffic accident in which you were driving but where you were not at fault, you may be entitled to claim compensation from the other party’s insurance company.

Here are a few steps you should take if you have been injured:

  • Seek medical attention as soon as possible, and report to your GP following a hospital admission
  • Exchange insurance details
  • Take photos, only if it is safe and appropriate
  • Obtain the name and contact details of any witnesses
  • Inform the police

IMPORTANT NOTE: Do not accept an offer from the other driver’s insurance company. The acceptance of an initial offer immediately after an accident is a major mistake!

Seek independent legal advice from our accident claims lawyers.

  • Pedestrians

If you were an RTA victim as a pedestrian, you may also have a claim against the driver.

If you’re a senior citizen or have a minor, you may have a potential risk every time you step on a busy road. All it takes is a small lapse in judgement or attention on the driver’s part to ruin any pedestrian’s life forever.

It is not uncommon for pedestrians to get injured while crossing a road as cars or other vehicles may swerve or mount a pavement.

If you are a victim of this type of RTA, contact our personal injury solicitors in Scotland to help you win your claim compensation.

  • Car passengers

In case you are a passenger in a van, car, or any other vehicle, and you are in a road traffic accident, you may be entitled to claim against the driver. If that driver is an Uber or any other service, you may easily win a claim. And in case the driver is a relative, family or loved one, don’t hesitate to claim since it will be paid by the driver’s insurance company.

Remember, whiplash injuries may seem minor but these are painful and may cause long-term muscle or fibre damage. Get yourself examined by a medical practitioner after the RTA and then give our personal injury solicitors a call. We will advise you on the merits of your claim.

  • Bus or coach passengers

Being a passenger on a coach or a bus that faces a road traffic accident, you may be entitled to a compensation claim.

A simple injury may occur in the unfortunate event of a collision, an emergency stop, or even a minor or a proper accident.

You may be thrown around in the large vehicle which may result in common injuries such as brushes, whiplash, cuts, fractures, or even head injuries.

These compensation claims can also be made by tourists who travel on a sightseeing tour or holidaymakers. It may also be made by teachers or schoolchildren who go on trips.

  • Taxi passengers

Despite wearing your seatbelt in a taxi, an Uber, or a similar car-hailing service vehicle, you may suffer minor or serious injuries if the vehicle collides on the road. A hard-hitting emergency stop may also injure you.

In case you have suffered minor or serious injuries when inside a taxi or car-hailing service vehicle, you ask our personal injury solicitors in Scotland to help you make your claim.

  • Hit-and-run victims

As a victim or a hit-and-run driver, or if the vehicle was stolen or driven by an uninsured driver, you may be entitled to a personal injury claim.

May uninsured drivers flee the scene after an RTA to escape the consequences of their actions. Sometimes the vehicle in a hit-and-run is stolen. In any case, you have the legal right to make a claim.

Bonnar Accident Law can help you claim through the Motor Insurers’ Bureau (MIB).

  • Cyclists

In Scotland and the UK, cyclists are amongst the most vulnerable road users. Any slight inattentiveness or recklessness by a larger vehicle driver may result in an injury for you. Other reasons may include faulty equipment or poor road surface conditions.

As a cyclist, a minor accident may lead to minor injuries such as cuts and bruises to major injuries such as fractures, head or spinal trauma, etc. In extreme cases, the RTA may result in a fatality.

As a cyclist, you may be entitled to claim compensation if:

  • The accident was caused by another road user or vehicle driver
  • The road or cycle lane was in poor condition
  • The equipment you were using was faulty

Our personal injury solicitors at Bonnar Accident Law will investigate the claim free of charge and give you expert legal advice.

  • Motorcyclists

Even the most skilled motorcyclists, wearing the correct protective gear, may face injuries or even death, when they are involved in a road traffic accident.

Actions of other road users and hazardous road conditions are two of the main reasons behind motorcyclist RTAs. The sustained injuries may be minor, serious, life-altering, or even fatal.

In case you or your loved one has been in RTA as a motorcyclist, you may be entitled to claim compensation.

Bonnar Accident Law is a corporate member of Headway, The Brain Injury Association, and we know how to help people and families who have to deal with the aftermath of a serious injury.

Contact our personal injury solicitors in Scotland to make the right claim for compensation in a road traffic accident as a motorcyclist.

How to claim with an accident claim lawyer

There are various methods to seek compensation after a road traffic accident. In most cases, you can contact a traffic accident claim solicitor or personal injury solicitor. The initial consultation to discuss your case may be free of charge. But to clear ambiguity, always call the solicitor beforehand to confirm.

To claim compensation through a no-win-no-fee accident claim solicitor in Scotland, remember to take the following actions:

  • Contact a solicitor
    Contact a personal injury solicitor who offers a no-win-no-fee arrangement. This agreement will allow you to claim compensation without worrying about how to pay for it.
  • Provide the required information
    It is paramount that you provide your solicitor with all the information and evidence collected at the scene of the accident. Even if it is a minor detail that you want to overlook and not mention, mention it to the solicitor.
  • Follow the solicitor’s advice
    Once the solicitor is on your case, and it begins, make sure that you follow every advice your solicitor gives through the claim process. If they give you directions on your words and interactions, take the advice. It will benefit you by the end of the claim.

Remember, the actions you take in the hours and days after a collision can have a significant impact on the outcome of your claim. It’s important to keep detailed records of everything related to the accident, including photographs, medical history, prescriptions, and any other out-of-pocket expenses.

What would a traffic accident solicitor do for you?

When you talk to a traffic accident claim solicitor, they will listen to your account of the traffic accident. Remember to provide them with evidence, and recount the traffic accident in complete detail. Remember to recall every detail to help them highlight how your claim can increase based on the injuries incurred.

The road traffic accident solicitor will provide you with the necessary steps you need to take to take your case to court. Write them down and ask them to provide you with a checklist of documents and necessary evidence you will require in court.

Will your case be on a no-win-no-fee basis?

Most road traffic accident claim lawyers take the cases on a no-win-no-fee agreement. It means that if your claim isn’t successful, they will not charge you any solicitor fee. Ensure that you have got this point cleared out in the initial discussion with your solicitor.

In case your road traffic accident claim is won, the solicitor will charge you a percentage from your awarded claim. But don’t worry, there is a cap that keeps the percentage within an acceptable limit. Discuss clarity on the percentage in the initial discussion as well to avoid any unwanted surprises later on.

In case your road traffic accident claim solicitor asks for a fee, you may be able to apply for legal aid to help you with the expenses and fees incurred. In case of winning your road traffic accident claim, you may have to give a share of your awarded claim towards the legal fees and damages. You can find more information on the website of The Scottish Legal Board.

Contact Bonnar Accident Law for a no-win-no-fee road traffic accident claim

Bonnar Accident Law has been helping people in Scotland, who have been injured or affected in a road traffic accident and helping them claim their compensation since 1977.

Our solicitors are all members of APIL, the Association of Personal Injury Lawyers and the firm is a corporate partner of Headway UK, the Brain Injury Association.

If you have been injured in a road traffic accident and would like to discuss your options for making a compensation claim, please do not delay. Call us free now on 0800 163 978 or complete our free online claim enquiry and we will contact you by return.

How to Get Your Bike Ready for Spring

How to Get Your Bike Ready for Spring

April 12, 2022/in , /by

Most bike users have had their bikes locked away in the shed or the garage over these cold winter months. Now that the first signs of spring are showing and the blue skies are starting to peak out, you may feel like it’s a good time to finally fish it out. However, when bikes are out of use for a while, certain parts can become loose or worn out, and this can cause discomfort to you as a rider and in the worst-case scenario, can result in an accident. Read our new blog on how to get your bike ready for spring to make sure your bike is in perfect shape before you begin your new season riding.

Check Your Tyre Pressure

One of the most important things to check this spring is your tyre pressure. Tyres loose air pressure over time so naturally will have with time in storage. Your bike’s manufacture guide should recommend what the correct tyre pressure is for your bike, and Cycle Guard recommend that you use either a floor pump or an electric bike pump to get it back to the right level.

Adjust the Derailleurs and Shifters

Your derailleurs are in charge of ensuring that your gears shift smoothly. If it has been a long time since you last rode your bike, your derailleur may need adjusting. This is pretty easy to check, simply hang your bike upside down using a bike stand and spin the bike pedals to run through the gears to check that they shift right. Any potential adjustments can be made using a Philips-head screwdriver.

Check Your Brake Levers

Your bike’s breaks not working properly is probably one of the quickest ways to get into an accident, so it is important that your breaks are working properly. Check your brake levers to see if they engage with the brake pads correctly, your brakes shouldn’t get stuck and should bring the wheel to a full stop when riding. Any adjustments that need to be made can be done so by unscrewing the barrel adjuster slightly.

Check Your Brake Pads

It is just as important to check your brake pads as it is to check your brake levers, they should not look worn or be loose at all. Replace your brake pads if they are worn before starting your spring ventures and similarly, you can adjust the brake cables with a screwdriver if the brake pads are not close enough to the rim.

Check the Spokes

Your spokes are supposed to ensure that your wheel stay straight. If your wheels don’t appear straight you need to tighten your spokes using a spoke wrench, but make sure that you do not overtighten as this can create too much tension resulting in cracks or deformities in the rim.

Check Your Bike Chain

Over time a bike chain can become loose and there is a risk that it could fall off your bike whilst you are riding, potentially causing serious injury. To check if your bike chain has become loose over time, check the chain tension by pressing your fingers against the top of the chain, it should not be more than a couple of centimetres. If it is, then you should get your bike chain replaced.

Check Safety Gear

Your safety gear includes your bikes light and reflectors, it is extremely important to check that these still work as they can reduce the chances of you being involved in an accident whilst riding. Additionally, in the UK, after sunset it is illegal to ride your bike on a public road without bike lights.

Apply Dry Lubricant

If your bike has been in storage for a while, the moving parts of your crankset may not be working in the right way. These parts include your bike’s chainring, chain and cog. Popular Mechanics advise that this can easily be fixed by applying some dry lubricant if they do not move properly

Adjust the Bike Seat

If your bike hasn’t been in use for a long period of time, your bike seat may become loose this will likely cause you great discomfort. Be sure to tighten your seat before you set off riding again. Similarly, if your bike seat has become worn it is a good idea to replace it to avoid the same issues.

Secure the Child Seat

This does not apply to all bike riders but if you have a child seat attached to your bike it is just as important to check it as it is to check your bike seat before you set off this spring. Similarly, if the seat seems damaged or worn it would be a good idea to get it replaced before riding.

If you or someone you know has been injured in a bike accident, please get in touch with one of our No Win No Fee solicitors today.

Everything You Need to Know about the 2022 Highway Code Changes

Everything You Need to Know about the 2022 Highway Code Changes

January 20, 2022/in /by

How well do you know the Highway Code? Sure, we all had our copy memorised back-to-front before sitting our driving test but since then, have you ever thought to reacquaintance yourself with the rules of the road?

According to a 2021 study by Rooster Insurance, 46.6% of drivers have never refreshed their knowledge of the Highway Code. As such, we’re sure that those road users might be quite surprised to learn that on 29th January 2022, the Highway Code is set to undergo a significant change with 49 updates to existing rules and 8 new rules being introduced.

After a lengthy consultation which concluded at the end of October 2020, generating nearly 21,000 response, the majority voted in favour of the proposed changes, believing that they would improve safety for cyclists, pedestrians and horse riders.

Amongst the changes is a new ‘Hierarchy of Road Users’ that will prioritise the most vulnerable road users, such as cyclists and pedestrians. This puts more responsibility on the drivers of larger vehicles to look after more vulnerable road users.

There is some concern that the new changes and revisions to the Highway Code could lead to an increase in road traffic accidents throughout both Scotland and across the whole of the UK in the coming months, due to a lack of awareness surrounding the changes.

Here at Bonnar Accident Law, we have significant experience handling road traffic accidents and are well versed in both the legal requirements and advisory behaviours that road users should adhere to. If you’d like more information get in touch today, or keep reading to find out all you need to know about the upcoming changes to the Highway Code and how they could affect any claims for compensation.

The Hierarchy of Road Users

The new Hierarchy of Road Users is being introduced to the Highway Code to ensures that those road users who can do the greatest harm, have the greatest responsibility to reduce the danger or threat they may pose to other road users.

The new hierarchy is in the order of which road users are most likely to be harmed in the event of an accident and is as follows:

  • Pedestrians
  • Cyclists
  • Horse riders
  • Motorcyclists
  • Cars/taxis
  • Vans/minibuses
  • Large passenger vehicles/heavy goods vehicles

The need to prioritise pedestrian safety has perhaps been highlighted by the COVID-19 pandemic and the increased awareness of climate change, both of which have seen many people deterred from risking public transport and taking to walking more. In fact, a recent study found that 38% of people are walking more than they were before the pandemic.

For cyclists, research from Cycling Scotland has found that between 2020 and 2021, there has been a 47% rise in people regularly cycling, as more people than ever before are taking to their bikes as a safe, economical and environmentally friendly way to get around.

However, whilst it’s clear why the safety of road users such as pedestrians and cyclists needs to be prioritised, the hierarchy does not remove the requirement for all road users to behave responsibly. The new Highway Code states that it is important that all road users are aware of the Highway Code, are considerate to other road users and understand their responsibility for the safety of others.

What other changes does the new Highway Code introduce?

  • Pedestrians will have increased priority at junctions over all other road users, including cyclists. Currently other road users only have to give way to pedestrians who have started to cross at junctions; under the new rule they should also give way when pedestrians are waiting to cross. The same applies in relation to zebra crossings, where currently traffic technically only must stop when a pedestrian has moved onto the crossing.
  • Cyclists can choose to ride in the centre of their lanes in certain situations, such as on quiet roads or at the approach to junctions. At junctions with no separate lights or cycle facilities, cyclists should position themselves in the centre of the lane.
  • Drivers, motorbike riders, horse riders and cyclists at a junction should give way to pedestrians crossing or waiting to cross a road into which, or from which, they are turning. Cyclists also have to give way to pedestrians on shared use cycle tracks.
  • Drivers should not cut across cyclists or horse riders going ahead when turning into or out of a junction or changing direction or lane, to prevent ‘left hook’ collisions.
  • Drivers should open car doors using the ‘Dutch reach’ method, with the hand on the opposite side to the door they are opening. This will mean drivers turn their heads to look over their shoulders and reduces the likelihood of hitting passing cyclists with their doors.
  • Drivers should leave at least 1.5 metres when overtaking cyclists at speeds of up to 30mph, more space when overtaking at higher speeds, and allow at least 2 metres space and keep to a low speed when passing a pedestrian who is walking in the road (e.g., where there is no pavement).

Read the full list of full changes set out by the Department of Transport here.

Will the change to the Highway Code affect my claim if I am injured in a road traffic accident?

The Highway Code is being updated to improve road safety for vulnerable road users, but there will be no changes to the law. The rules of the Highway Code are advisory, meaning a person won’t be prosecuted for not complying with them.

However, the Highway Code can be used in court to establish liability in the event of an accident under the Road Traffic Act. This includes rules which say ‘should/should not or do/do not.’ Therefore, if you are found to be at fault in an accident as a result of not complying with the Highway Code, you may face charges in court.

If you are involved in a road traffic accident, whilst we can completely under your distress, we can only advise that you try your best to stay calm and remember as many details as you can, as these can help to support your claim if you weren’t at fault. Try to record the following:

  • Names, addresses and contact details of all drivers involved
  • Vehicle registration details for all vehicles involved
  • Accident date and time
  • Accident location
  • Full contact details of any witnesses

Most importantly of course, if necessary, seek medical attention as soon as possible and report to your GP following any hospital admissions. And remember to always report the accident to the police.

If you have been injured in a road traffic accident that wasn’t your fault and you would like more information, please get in touch with one of our No Win No Fee solicitors today.

Think Motorbike: Safety on the Road (Part Two)

March 10, 2021/in /by

 

Think Motorbike Safety on the Road

In January, we brought you part one of our Safety on the Road series: Think Bike, which explored the increased risk to cyclists as an increasing number of people take to their bikes as a cost-effective, healthy and environmentally friendly way to get around. In the first part of the series, we provided our top tips for how to stay safe.

This month we are focusing on motorcycle safety. Although motorcyclists only account for 1% of road traffic, they account for a staggering 19% of road users involved in fatal accidents.

Motorbikes are a popular mode of transport for thousands of people across the UK who get great enjoyment from the sense of adventure riding a motorcycle brings, alongside the financial and environmental benefits.

However, motorcyclists are amongst the most vulnerable road users, as in comparison to cyclists, motorcyclists travel at the same high speeds as cars, yet without any of the protective features, a car offers such as seat belts and airbags. As such, it means that if you’re involved in a road traffic accident on a motorcycle, you’re at considerably more risk of serious injury.

In this blog, we’ll explore the steps that motorcyclists can take to stay safe on the roads, as well as the steps other road users can take to play their part in making the roads safer for those who are most vulnerable.

 

Safety Tips for Motorcyclists

  • Suit up – the notorious motorcycle leathers are there not just to look stylish, but to protect riders as they can help to prevent serious injury. A DOT-approved helmet is also crucial.
  • Ride defensively by always staying as visible as possible. Make sure you avoid drivers’ blind spots, drive with your headlights on even during the day and wear high visibility clothing.
  • Look out for hazards on the road such as potholes so you can take the appropriate action to avoid these.
  • Avoid cycling in poor weather conditions these can seriously compromise your ride.
  • Obey traffic rules and speed limits, and always make sure to use your turn signals and hand signals.
  • Stay focused, as any lapses in concentration could have serious consequences. Likewise, make sure you aren’t driving impaired.

 

Safety Tips for Drivers

  • Look – failure to look is one of the top reasons for road traffic accidents between cars and motorcycles.
  • Pay particular attention to junctions and roundabouts.
  • Take extra care to check for motorcyclists when changing lanes, as a motorcycle may be in the space you’re moving into or be fast approaching it.
  • Leave plenty of space when overtaking a motorcyclist, as much space you would leave a car if not more, as motorcyclists often need to move suddenly to avoid dangers on the road such as potholes.
  • Be aware of Advanced Stop Lines. These allow increased visibility for vulnerable road users such as motorcyclists. You must stop at the first white line if the traffic light is amber or red and when the green light shows, allow the road user time and space to set off
  • The lower your speed, the less risk you are to a motorcyclist. As motorcyclists are more sensitive to changes on the road and can manoeuvre much quicker, if you’re behind or passing a motorcyclist, be sure to do so slowly and carefully.

 

If you do find yourself injured due to a motorcycle accident, you may be due compensation if the accident was caused by the actions of another road user, if the road was in poor condition, or if your injury was due to an equipment failure.

 

If you have been injured in an accident that wasn’t your fault and you would like more information, please feel free to get in touch with one of our No Win No Fee solicitors.

Pedestrian Safety

January 29, 2021/in , /by
Pedestrian Safety

Pedestrian Safety

 

Pedestrians are amongst the most vulnerable people on UK roads. Whilst there are many different methods of transportation that we can take advantage of, at one point or another, everyone is a pedestrian. Unfortunately, without the protection of a vehicle, or any safety equipment, pedestrians are vulnerable to serious injury. This can range from minor cuts and bruises to broken bones, to serious life-changing injuries.

 

Tragically, in 2019, pedestrians accounted for 27% of all road traffic accident fatalities in the UK, which was the highest proportion of any group besides car occupants.

 

Behind the statistics, are real people who are struggling with the consequences of being in a pedestrian accident.

Here at Bonnar Accident Law, we understand that if you or a loved one has been involved in an accident as a pedestrian, you may be facing distressing and uncertain times and might be unsure of what to do next. This blog will guide you through your next steps, as well as our top tips for staying safe as a pedestrian.

 

What to Do If You’re in a Pedestrian Accident?

  • Seek Medical Attention

Of course, the priority is to ensure that you’re out of harm’s way and that the emergency services have been called. Even in the case of minor injuries, it’s important to see your GP after in case your condition worsens.

  • Report the Accident

All road traffic accidents involving injury must be reported to the police and you should obtain a police report/incident number.

  • Take Photographs

If possible, take pictures of the scene of the accident, the surrounding area, and your injuries.

  • Collect Information

Make sure to exchange details with the driver/s involved in the accident, as well as anyone who might have witnessed it.

Our Top Tips for Pedestrian Safety

  • Stop, look, listen.
  • Stay alert, don’t be distracted by electronic devices such as your phone that can take your attention off the road.
  • Choose a safe place to cross the road, such as at a pedestrian crossing or traffic lights.
  • Even at a pedestrian crossing, always pause before you step onto the road and check both directions to ensure there is no oncoming traffic.
  • Don’t assume a driver has seen you. Always try where possible to make eye contact before you cross.
  • If there is a footpath, use it. If not, stick to the right-hand side of the road facing oncoming traffic, and keep as close as possible to the side of the road.

 

If you have been injured in an accident that wasn’t your fault and you would like more information, please feel free to get in touch with one of our No Win No Fee solicitors.