Personal Injury Claims Solicitors

Experienced Personal Injury Solicitors in Dublin

If you've been injured due to someone else's negligence, you deserve expert legal representation to secure the compensation you're entitled to. At Gary Matthews Solicitors, we specialize in personal injury claims throughout Ireland, providing comprehensive legal services that maximize your compensation while minimizing stress during your recovery.

Our experienced team of personal injury solicitors understands Irish personal injury law inside and out, including the Injuries Board (PIAB) process, court procedures, and insurance company tactics. We handle all types of personal injury claims with professionalism, compassion, and a commitment to achieving the best possible outcome for our clients.

Types of Personal Injury Claims We Handle

Gary Matthews Solicitors represents clients across the full spectrum of personal injury claims. Our expertise covers:

Road Traffic Accident Claims

Road traffic accidents are among the most common causes of personal injury in Ireland. Whether you've been injured as a driver, passenger, motorcyclist, cyclist, or pedestrian, we can help you pursue compensation. Our road traffic accident services include:

• Car Accidents: Claims for injuries sustained in car collisions, whether you were at fault or not (through the Motor Insurers' Bureau of Ireland if necessary)
• Motorcycle Accidents: Specialized representation for motorcyclists who often suffer severe injuries
• Pedestrian Accidents: Claims when pedestrians are struck by vehicles, including hit-and-run cases
• Bicycle Accidents: Representing cyclists injured by motor vehicles or poor road conditions
• Public Transport Accidents: Claims involving buses, taxis, Luas, or trains
• Uninsured Driver Claims: Pursuing compensation through the Motor Insurers' Bureau of Ireland (MIBI)

We understand that road traffic accidents can cause life-changing injuries including whiplash, fractures, head injuries, spinal injuries, and psychological trauma. Our team works to ensure all aspects of your injury and losses are properly compensated.

Workplace Accident and Injury Claims

Employers have strict legal duties to provide safe working environments and protect employee welfare. When workplace accidents occur due to employer negligence or unsafe conditions, injured workers are entitled to compensation. We handle workplace injury claims including:

• Falls from Height: Injuries from falls off ladders, scaffolding, roofs, or elevated work platforms
• Slips, Trips, and Falls: Accidents caused by wet floors, uneven surfaces, or poor housekeeping
• Manual Handling Injuries: Back injuries, hernias, and musculoskeletal injuries from improper lifting
• Machinery Accidents: Injuries from inadequately guarded or maintained equipment
• Industrial Diseases: Occupational illnesses including respiratory conditions, hearing loss, or vibration white finger
• Chemical Exposure: Injuries from exposure to hazardous substances
• Construction Site Accidents: Specialized representation for construction workers facing unique hazards
• Repetitive Strain Injuries: RSI and other injuries from repetitive tasks or poor workstation setup

We understand employment concerns and work sensitively to protect your job security while pursuing your rightful compensation.

Public Liability Claims

Property owners, businesses, and public authorities have duties to maintain safe premises for visitors. Public liability claims arise when injuries occur due to hazardous conditions on someone else's property. Our public liability services include claims for:

• Slips and Falls: Injuries from wet floors, ice, spills, or poor maintenance in shops, restaurants, hotels, or public buildings
• Trips and Falls: Accidents caused by uneven pavements, potholes, raised surfaces, or poor lighting
• Falling Objects: Injuries from objects falling from shelves, buildings, or improperly secured structures
• Inadequate Security: Injuries resulting from assaults in premises with inadequate security measures
• Defective Premises: Injuries from structural defects, poor maintenance, or dangerous conditions
• Shopping Center Accidents: Claims against retail premises for accidents on their property

Medical Negligence Claims

Medical negligence occurs when healthcare professionals fail to provide appropriate standards of care, causing harm to patients. These complex claims require specialized medical and legal expertise. We handle medical negligence claims including:

• Surgical Errors: Mistakes during surgery, wrong-site surgery, or surgical complications due to negligence
• Misdiagnosis or Delayed Diagnosis: Failure to correctly diagnose conditions like cancer, heart disease, or infections
• Birth Injuries: Injuries to mother or baby during pregnancy, labor, or delivery
• Medication Errors: Wrong medication, incorrect dosage, or failure to identify drug interactions
• Dental Negligence: Substandard dental treatment causing injury or complications
• Hospital-Acquired Infections: Infections contracted due to poor hygiene or infection control
• Inadequate Treatment: Failure to provide appropriate treatment or follow-up care

Medical negligence claims don't go through the Injuries Board and require expert medical evidence. Our team has the specialized knowledge needed to pursue these complex claims successfully.

Dog Bite and Animal Attack Claims

Dog owners have strict liability for injuries caused by their dogs under Irish law. We represent victims of dog bites and animal attacks, pursuing compensation for:

• Physical injuries from bites and attacks
• Scarring and disfigurement
• Psychological trauma and fear of dogs
• Infection or complications from animal bites

Assault and Criminal Injury Claims

Victims of violent crimes can claim compensation through the Criminal Injuries Compensation Tribunal, even if the attacker is never caught or cannot pay. We assist with:

• Physical assault compensation claims
• Sexual assault victim compensation
• Claims for psychological trauma from criminal acts
• Applications to the Criminal Injuries Compensation Tribunal

Product Liability Claims

Manufacturers and suppliers are liable when defective products cause injuries. We handle product liability claims for:

• Defective appliances or electronics
• Faulty vehicles or vehicle parts
• Dangerous toys or children's products
• Contaminated food or drink
• Defective medical devices or equipment

Understanding the Injuries Board (PIAB) Process

In Ireland, most personal injury claims (except medical negligence) must first be submitted to the Personal Injuries Assessment Board (PIAB), also known as the Injuries Board. Understanding this process is crucial for personal injury claimants.

What is the Injuries Board?

The Injuries Board is an independent statutory body established to assess personal injury compensation without the need for court proceedings. The PIAB process aims to provide faster, less expensive claim resolution while ensuring fair compensation.

How the PIAB Process Works

1. Application Submission: We complete and submit your PIAB application with all required documentation and medical evidence
2. Consent from Respondent: The party you're claiming against (usually their insurer) must consent to the PIAB assessment
3. Medical Assessment: You attend a medical examination by a PIAB-appointed doctor who assesses your injuries
4. Assessment: PIAB makes an assessment of appropriate compensation based on the medical report and other evidence
5. Accept or Reject: Both parties can accept or reject the PIAB assessment
6. Authorization to Sue: If either party rejects the assessment, PIAB issues an Authorization to Sue, allowing court proceedings

Why You Need a Solicitor for PIAB

While PIAB applications can technically be made without a solicitor, having experienced legal representation provides significant advantages:

• Proper Documentation: We ensure applications are complete with comprehensive medical evidence
• Maximized Compensation: Our experience helps secure higher assessments by properly documenting all losses
• Medical Report Coordination: We liaise with your GP and specialists to obtain detailed medical reports
• Strategic Advice: We advise whether to accept PIAB assessments or proceed to court for potentially higher awards
• Court Representation: If PIAB assessment is rejected, we're ready to represent you in court proceedings

What Compensation Can You Claim?

Personal injury compensation aims to restore you, as far as money can, to the position you'd have been in if the accident hadn't occurred. Compensation typically covers:

General Damages

Compensation for pain, suffering, and loss of amenity caused by your injuries. This includes:

• Physical pain and suffering
• Emotional and psychological distress
• Loss of enjoyment of life and activities
• Impact on relationships and family life
• Scarring and disfigurement

Special Damages

Quantifiable financial losses and expenses, including:

• Lost Earnings: Wages lost due to time off work, including future loss of earnings if unable to return to full employment
• Medical Expenses: Costs of treatment, prescriptions, medical equipment, physiotherapy, and future medical care
• Travel Costs: Expenses for travel to medical appointments and treatment
• Home Modifications: Costs of adapting your home for disability or mobility issues
• Care Costs: Expenses for care assistance, both past and future
• Loss of Pension: Reduction in pension contributions or benefits due to time off work

Future Losses

For serious injuries with long-term impacts, compensation includes:

• Future loss of earnings capacity
• Ongoing medical treatment and care costs
• Future aids, appliances, and assistive technology
• Loss of career progression opportunities

The Personal Injury Claims Process with Gary Matthews Solicitors

When you choose Gary Matthews Solicitors, you can expect a clear, transparent process:

Step 1: Free Initial Consultation

Contact us for a free consultation where we'll discuss your accident, injuries, and circumstances. We'll provide honest advice about your claim's prospects and explain the process ahead.

Step 2: Case Investigation and Evidence Gathering

We immediately begin building your case by:

• Obtaining accident reports and CCTV footage where available
• Gathering witness statements
• Photographing accident scenes and injuries
• Obtaining medical records from your GP
• Arranging specialist medical examinations if needed
• Calculating your financial losses and expenses

Step 3: PIAB Application

We prepare and submit your comprehensive PIAB application with all necessary medical reports and documentation, ensuring the strongest possible presentation of your claim.

Step 4: Medical Assessment

You'll attend a medical examination by a PIAB-appointed doctor. We prepare you for this examination and ensure the medical report accurately reflects your injuries and prognosis.

Step 5: Assessment and Negotiation

When PIAB makes its assessment, we review it carefully and advise whether it represents fair compensation. If the assessment is insufficient, we'll explain your options for proceeding to court proceedings.

Step 6: Court Proceedings (if necessary)

If PIAB assessment is rejected by either party, or if the respondent doesn't consent to PIAB, we're fully prepared to issue court proceedings and represent you throughout litigation.

Step 7: Settlement and Compensation

Once your claim resolves successfully, we ensure you receive your compensation promptly, typically within 2-4 weeks of settlement or judgment.

Time Limits for Personal Injury Claims

Strict time limits apply to personal injury claims in Ireland under the Statute of Limitations Act:

• Standard Claims: Two years from the date of injury or accident
• Claims Against Public Bodies: Written notice must usually be given within six months
• Medical Negligence: Two years from when you became aware (or should reasonably have become aware) of the negligence
• Minors: Time doesn't start running until the injured person turns 18
• Lack of Mental Capacity: Time limits may be extended for those lacking mental capacity

Acting quickly is crucial. Evidence can be lost, witnesses' memories fade, and delays can weaken claims. Contact us as soon as possible after your injury to protect your rights.

Why Choose Gary Matthews Solicitors for Your Personal Injury Claim?

Specialized Personal Injury Expertise

Personal injury law is our core focus. We have extensive experience across all types of claims and deep understanding of Irish personal injury legislation, case law, and assessment guidelines.

No-Win No-Fee Available

We offer no-win no-fee representation, removing financial barriers to justice. You can pursue your claim without upfront costs or financial risk.

24/7 Availability

Personal injury emergencies don't follow office hours. We're available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to provide immediate advice and support when you need it most.

Maximized Compensation

Our thorough case preparation and skilled negotiation consistently secure higher compensation awards for our clients. We ensure all aspects of your losses are properly valued and compensated.

Compassionate, Client-Centered Service

We understand the physical, emotional, and financial challenges following personal injury. Our team provides empathetic, personalized service, supporting you throughout your recovery journey.

Proven Track Record

Our success in personal injury claims speaks for itself. We've secured substantial compensation for clients across all types of injury claims, from minor injuries to life-changing trauma.

Clear Communication

We keep you informed at every stage with regular updates in plain English. You'll always understand what's happening with your claim and what to expect next.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to go through the Injuries Board (PIAB)?

For most personal injury claims (except medical negligence), yes. PIAB assessment is mandatory before court proceedings can be issued. However, if the respondent doesn't consent to PIAB or rejects the assessment, you can proceed directly to court.

How long does a personal injury claim take?

Simple claims resolved through PIAB typically take 9-18 months. More complex cases or those requiring court proceedings can take 2-3 years or longer. We work efficiently to resolve your claim as quickly as possible while ensuring fair compensation.

What if the accident was partly my fault?

You can still claim even if you were partly at fault. Under the principle of "contributory negligence," your compensation is reduced by the percentage of fault attributed to you. For example, if you're found 20% at fault, your compensation reduces by 20%.

What if I didn't report the accident at the time?

While immediate reporting is ideal, you can still claim even if you didn't report the accident immediately. However, prompt reporting strengthens claims by creating contemporaneous records. Contact us as soon as possible after any accident.

Will making a claim affect my job?

For workplace injury claims, you're legally protected against dismissal or discrimination for making a claim. We handle workplace injury claims sensitively to protect your employment relationship.

What if the other driver was uninsured?

You can still claim through the Motor Insurers' Bureau of Ireland (MIBI), which compensates victims of uninsured and untraced drivers. We have experience with MIBI claims and can guide you through this process.

How much is my claim worth?

Compensation depends on injury severity, impact on your life, financial losses, and individual circumstances. During your free consultation, we can provide an estimate based on similar cases, though final awards depend on specific facts and medical evidence.

Take Action Today – Contact Gary Matthews Solicitors

If you've been injured due to someone else's negligence, don't delay in seeking expert legal advice. Time limits apply to all personal injury claims, and early action strengthens your case by preserving evidence and protecting your rights.

Contact Gary Matthews Solicitors today for a free, confidential consultation about your personal injury claim. Our experienced team is available 24/7 to provide immediate advice and support. With our no-win no-fee service, you can pursue compensation without financial risk.

Call us now at +353 1 903 6407 (24/7 availability), email [email protected], or visit our office at Ormond Building, Ormond Quay Upper, Dublin 7 to discuss your personal injury claim.

Don't suffer in silence. Let Gary Matthews Solicitors fight for the compensation you deserve while you focus on your recovery. We're here to support you every step of the way.