Children’s Accident Claims
If your child has been injured in an accident, you may be entitled to claim compensation on their behalf.
At Bennett Griffin, our experienced personal injury solicitors understand how distressing these situations can be, not just for your child but for yourself as well.
We specialise in children’s accident claims, helping families across West Sussex and beyond secure the compensation they deserve.
Whether your child’s injury occurred in a car accident, at school, or in a public place, we are here to help you every step of the way.
Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your child’s injury claim.
Types Of Accidents Involving Children
Accidents involving children can happen in a variety of settings, and the consequences can often be life-changing for them and their family.
Our solicitors handle a wide range of child injury claims, including but not limited to:
- Road Traffic Accidents
- Slips, trips, and falls
- Playground, school and club accidents
- Accidents in childcare settings such as nurseries or after-school clubs
- Medical negligence
- Defective products or unsafe toys.
Whatever the circumstances of your child’s accident, Bennett Griffin’s personal injury team has the experience to assess your case and pursue the appropriate compensation.
What Can Compensation Pay For?
Compensation in children’s accident claims is intended to provide financial support for both the immediate impact of the injury , but crucially for any long-term consequences.
This can help cover a range of expenses and losses, including:
- Pain and suffering – compensation for the physical and emotional impact the injury has had on your child
- Medical treatment costs include emergency care, ongoing treatments, rehabilitation, and specialist therapies.
- Future care needs – including any long-term medical care, physical therapy, or specialist equipment your child may require.
- Educational support – to cover additional help or resources needed at school due to your child’s injury.
- Travel expenses – such as transport to and from medical appointments or specialist care facilities.
- Loss of earnings – for parents or guardians who need to take time off work to care for their injured child.
Our Children’s Accident Claim Process
At Bennett Griffin, we understand how challenging it can be for families when a child is injured in an accident.
Our approach is designed to be straightforward, compassionate, and tailored to your child’s needs.
Here’s how we guide you through every step:
1. Initial Consultation
We begin with a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your child’s accident, injuries, and any potential claims. During this meeting, we will assess the case details and explain your legal options, providing clear advice on how to proceed.
2. Claim Investigation
Once we take on your child injury claim, our team will conduct a thorough investigation. This includes gathering evidence such as medical records, witness statements, and accident reports to build a strong case. We will also ensure that all necessary documentation is in place to support the claim.
3. Medical Assessment
In all cases, an independent medical expert will assess your child’s injuries to determine the extent of the harm and its future impact. Sometimes we will need to obtain evidence from more than one medical speciality. These reports will help calculate the appropriate compensation amount.
4. Settlement Negotiation
We will then enter into negotiations with the responsible party or their insurers to secure a fair settlement. If a reasonable settlement cannot be reached, our experienced solicitors will take the case to court to pursue the best outcome for your child.
5. Compensation Payment
Once a settlement is reached, it will need to be approved by the Court, and any compensation is usually held in a special court-approved trust until your child turns 18. This ensures the funds are safeguarded and used for their benefit, covering their medical needs, education, and future well-being.
Children’s Serious Injury Claims
In cases where a child has suffered a serious injury, the consequences can be life-changing, impacting both their immediate health and long-term future.
Serious injuries may include brain injuries, spinal damage, fractures, or severe burns and often require ongoing medical care, rehabilitation, and specialist support.
At Bennett Griffin, we have extensive experience handling children’s serious injury claims.
Compensation for serious injuries can cover the following:
- Specialist medical care – including surgeries, therapy, and rehabilitation programs.
- Long-term support – such as home adaptations, mobility aids, or personal care assistance.
- Education and future care needs – ensuring your child receives the proper support as they grow and develop.
- Loss of future earnings – compensation to account for any impact the injury may have on your child’s ability to work later in life.
Our experienced solicitors will carefully assess the full impact of the injury on your child’s life, building a robust case to secure the compensation necessary for their recovery and long-term well-being.
Contact Bennett Griffin
If your child has been injured and you believe someone else is at fault, contact Bennett Griffin today to discuss your claim.
Our experienced team of child injury claim solicitors in West Sussex is ready to provide you with the advice and support you need.
The team is proud to be recognised by Chambers and Partners and the Legal 500.
We have two offices in West Sussex.
To speak with our team in Worthing, call 01903 229999. You can also call our Chichester office at 01243 256370.
Alternatively, email info@bennett-griffin.co.uk and a member of our personal injury team will get back to you shortly.
Children’s Accident Claims FAQs
Who can claim on behalf of a child?
Parents or legal guardians can make a child injury claim on behalf of a child under 18. As the child’s “litigation friend,” you will act in the child’s best interests throughout the legal process.
What will happen to my child’s compensation?
In most cases, compensation awarded to a child will be held in a special Court account until the child turns 18. This ensures the funds are safeguarded and used for the child’s benefit, including covering their medical and educational needs.
Is there a time limit for making children’s accident claims?
Yes, but it differs from adult claims. While personal injury claims for adults must be made within three years of the accident, a child’s three-year time limit doesn’t begin until their 18th birthday. This means a child injury claim can be made at any time before they turn 21.
Will my child need a medical examination to support any injury claims?
Yes, a medical examination is often required to assess the extent of your child’s injuries. This independent assessment will be used to determine the appropriate level of compensation.
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Your Bennett Griffin Team