Claire’s Story: The Psychological Impact of a High-Speed Crash

Can you make a personal injury claim if you are passenger?

Yes, as a passenger, you can make a personal injury claim if you’re injured in an accident. Since passengers are rarely at fault, you’re entitled to seek compensation from the driver at fault, whether it’s the driver of the vehicle you were in, or another party involved in the collision.

Making a personal injury claim

“At the time, I felt like I had been through enough [to not make a claim]. But it got to the point where you have to start looking out for yourself and your own wellbeing.”

She found Express Solicitors through a Google search and from her first call, she was impressed by how friendly and understanding everyone was. Zoe Moore supported her through the legal process, Claire said, Zoe truly “excelled” in her role and couldn’t thank her enough for her care throughout the ordeal.

The Claim

Since Claire was an innocent victim in the crash, the defendant initially made a settlement offer of £5,000, which remained ‘on the table’. However, Zoe and her team felt this offer did not fully reflect the severity of the accident’s impact on Claire’s life. They set out to prove this by obtaining expert medical evidence, which confirmed that Claire’s chronic back pain that she’d had from a young age, had been exacerbated by the accident. Additionally, an impact statement was prepared on Claire’s behalf to convey the psychological toll the incident had taken on her.

She said: “That statement blew me away. After I read that, I thought they can’t refuse that. It was written so beautifully. I felt she understood me more than I understood myself.”

Following the introduction of the new evidence and statement, an improved offer of £8,000 was made, which Claire accepted.

Compensation

Reflecting on her compensation, Claire said: “I think it has given me emotional closure. It’s a good amount that I can invest in my future and move forward. It is still affecting me emotionally and I’m going to remember it some days, but I know something good has come of it.

“I’m now ready to embrace the next chapter of my life.”

Zoe added: “I am pleased we were able to secure compensation for Claire. Far too often, ‘unseen’ injuries are overlooked, despite the significant impact they can have on a person’s life. In this case, the statement we prepared was instrumental in demonstrating the extent of the harm and ensuring the appropriate level of compensation. It’s lovely to hear the conclusion of the claim will now help Claire move on in her life.”

Contact us

If you have been injured as a passenger in an accident that was not your fault, you may be entitled to claim compensation. Our team is here to listen to your story and support you in making a personal injury claim. Start your claim today. Contact Us | Express Solicitors