Accidents can happen to anyone. When they cause severe injuries, the resulting distress, suffering and loss of income has a profoundly negative impact on the wellbeing of you and your family.
Injured people often find themselves unable to work for long periods or participate in the same activities they once enjoyed. In some cases, they suffer from ongoing physical and psychological pain. Fortunately, compensation law in Australia ensures people who are accidentally injured are looked after.
What Does Compensation Law Cover?
You may be able to get compensation for both economic and non-economic loss relating to your injury, such as:
- loss of past and future income
- cost of treatment, rehabilitation and other medical expenses
- expenses relating to in-home care or other household assistance
- support while returning to work
- pain and suffering
- reduced quality of life
- legal costs
Compensation law covers a variety of circumstances, ranging from accidents in the workplace or a public place to motor vehicle accidents and medical negligence.
What is the Legal Process for Making a Claim?
Making a claim is often complex and requires the assistance of a solicitor with expertise in this area of law. The legal process largely depends on the type of claim being made, the circumstances leading up to the incident and what parties may be liable for causing the injuries.
The vast majority of compensation claims are resolved through settlement, particularly if the circumstances of the injury are straightforward. This is because both parties are generally keen to avoid costly, lengthy and stressful court processes.
Your compensation lawyer will thoroughly investigate the incident and collect evidence, such as medical documentation, expert opinions and witness accounts, to determine a fair and realistic compensation figure. Legal parties on both sides will then negotiate to reach a settlement that satisfies everyone.
What Are the Legal Costs?
As every case is different, legal costs will largely depend on the amount of work required to resolve your claim. On average, a claim may take between 12 and 18 months to resolve. More complex cases may take even longer, particularly if the claim is disputed by the other party and the case is brought to court.
Lawyers spend this time researching, analysing evidence, attending meetings, producing documents, negotiating and obtaining monies and settling accounts. At Stacks Goudkamp, we alleviate the added stress of legal costs by offering clients a “no win, no fee” service.
Making a Compensation Claim in NSW?
Support from experienced lawyers is essential to ensure you get the compensation you deserve. Compensation claims are subject to strict time limits, so you should seek legal services as soon as possible after the incident.
If you need assistance with a compensation claim in New South Wales, speak to the experienced team of personal injury lawyers at Stacks Goudkamp by calling 1800 251 800 or make an online enquiry.
