Behind the 146 road fatalities recorded in Ireland in 2024, there are grieving families, shattered dreams, and lives forever changed. These are not just numbers: they represent 60 drivers who never made it home, 30 passengers whose journeys were tragically cut short, 26 pedestrians struck down, 17 motorcyclists who took their last ride, 10 cyclists, and 3 e-scooter users lost on the road.
While the 7% drop in fatalities compared to 2023 offers a glimmer of progress, it’s little solace to those living with the aftermath of collisions. From devastating injuries to the emotional scars that remain long after the crash, the impact can be overwhelming. If you or a loved one has been affected by a road accident, you deserve expert legal guidance to tread the path to justice and compensation. At Tiernan & Co. Solicitors, we don’t just handle claims. We help rebuild lives.
These factors often stem from negligence, either by drivers, road maintenance authorities, or other parties. If you’ve been involved in an accident caused by any of these factors, you may be entitled to compensation.
At Tiernan & Co. Solicitors, we provide expertise across a wide range of road traffic accident claims. Some of the most common claims include:
Car accidents are the leading source of personal injury claims. These incidents range from minor fender-benders to severe collisions causing long-term injuries or fatalities.
Cyclists are particularly vulnerable on Irish roads, often suffering severe injuries due to limited protection. Claims may involve reckless drivers or unsafe road conditions.
Motorcyclists face heightened risks, including collisions caused by drivers failing to notice them or road debris. Injuries can be catastrophic, making expert legal advice crucial.
Pedestrians struck by vehicles often suffer life-changing injuries. These claims frequently involve speeding or failure to yield at crossings.
Passengers injured in buses, taxis, or other public transport vehicles can seek compensation. Claims can be made against the transport operator, driver, or another party responsible.
With their growing popularity, accidents involving e-bikes and e-scooters are becoming more common. Riders injured due to negligent drivers or faulty infrastructure may have grounds for a claim.
If you’ve been involved in a road traffic accident, it’s essential to act quickly and carefully. Follow these steps to protect your health, legal rights, and potential compensation claim:
Even if injuries seem minor, consult a medical professional immediately. Some injuries, such as whiplash, may not be apparent until days later.
All road traffic accidents, no matter how minor, should be reported to the Gardaí. This creates an official record of the incident.
Collect as much information as possible at the scene. This includes:
Notify your insurer about the accident, providing them with all relevant details and documents.
Consult an experienced road traffic accident solicitor to evaluate your claim. Early legal advice ensures you take the necessary steps to strengthen your case.
Determining liability is a crucial part of any claim. In most cases, liability rests with the party who breached their duty of care, such as:
Evidence such as CCTV footage, eyewitness accounts, and Garda reports can help establish who is at fault.
The compensation awarded in road traffic accident claims typically falls under three main categories:
The amount of compensation depends on the severity of injuries and other case-specific factors. At Tiernan & Co. Solicitors, we provide clear, accurate assessments of your potential claim.
Under Irish law, claimants generally have two years from the date of the accident to initiate legal proceedings. Exceptions may apply, such as:
Failing to act within this timeframe can result in your claim being barred, so contacting a solicitor promptly is essential.
To improve your chances of success, ensure the following:
At Tiernan & Co. Solicitors, we understand the complexities of road traffic accident claims and work diligently to secure the best outcome for you.
Yes, multiple parties can share liability. For example, if both a reckless driver and a poorly maintained road contributed to the accident, claims may be made against the driver and the responsible local authority. This requires careful legal analysis to apportion liability.
Claims for defective vehicle-related accidents can involve both the manufacturer and the driver. Proving liability may hinge on technical evidence, such as engineering reports, and the claimant must demonstrate that the defect directly caused the accident.
While Gardaí attendance strengthens evidence, claims can still proceed without their presence. Claimants must gather alternative evidence, such as photos, witness statements, and a subsequent Garda report filed at the nearest station.
Irish courts require proof that the accident aggravated the pre-existing condition. Medical reports must distinguish between the original condition and the injury caused by the accident to determine compensation accurately.
Passengers can claim against any party responsible for their injuries, including the driver of the car they were in and other involved drivers. Courts assess the evidence to establish each party’s contribution to the accident.
These guidelines standardise compensation amounts for specific injuries. While they aim to reduce inconsistencies, some cases require deviations due to exceptional circumstances, often argued by experienced solicitors.
The two-year Statute of Limitations begins from the date you became aware of the injury’s seriousness and its link to the accident. Medical evidence is crucial to prove when the injury was diagnosed as “significant.”
While not mandatory, Gardaí reports strengthen claims by documenting facts and liability. In their absence, alternative evidence, such as eyewitness accounts, CCTV footage, and photos, becomes essential.
Multi-vehicle claims require meticulous investigation to apportion fault among drivers. Factors such as the sequence of collisions, road conditions, and compliance with traffic laws are assessed to establish responsibility.
Yes, Irish law recognises psychological injuries as compensable. However, proving such claims involves detailed medical evidence from specialists and a clear link between the accident and the psychological harm suffered.
With decades of experience in personal injury law, we are committed to providing expert legal support tailored to your unique circumstances. Among other things, client trust us for:
For a free, confidential consultation about your road traffic accident claim, contact Tiernan & Co. Solicitors today. Let us help you achieve the justice you deserve.
TIERNAN & CO SOLICITORS IS A MEMBER OF THE DUBLIN SOLICITORS BAR ASSOCIATION AND THE LAW SOCIETY OF IRELAND
