26 Feb Child Personal Injury Claims
Child personal injury claims involve minors (any person under 18 years of age) who has received a personal injury due to being in an accident that was not their fault. Accidents involving children may be more severe and parents will often only consider their child’s welfare and not consider legal proceedings, however we advise speaking to one of our personal injury solicitors to see if you are eligible for compensation.
Compensation claims for children in Ireland have several differences than making a claim as an adult. A child may not submit an application to the Personal Injuries Board online, it must be submitted via email.
Compensation received may also differ from an adult. For example, a child may heal faster, but due to their age, they will carry any long lasting injuries for a much greater period of time. Even though a child may not be working, special damages may also be awarded for the loss of ability to work later in life.
Who can make a personal injury claim for a child or minor?
In Ireland, any child or minor is unable to engage the services of a solicitor or begin legal action in their own right. A minor wishing to make a personal injury claim must be represented by a parent or guardian if wishing to make a claim before the age of 18.
How long do I have to make a personal injury claim for children?
In personal injury claims for adults, you have 2 years from the date of knowledge of the injury to make a personal injury claim. However, for minors the date of knowledge is when the minor turns eighteen years of age; a minor can also pursue a claim prior to their 18th birthday. If you are outside of this time period, you will be barred by the Statute of Limitation Act from bringing your claim.
However, it is best to start your child’s personal injury claim as soon as you become aware of the injury to make gathering information as efficient as possible
To learn if you can pursue your personal injury claim contact one of our personal injury solicitors now.
