Tag: book of quantum

Going to Court: the reality.

Going to court – the very thought of it conjures up nerves for many people. From watching court on our TV screens and cinemas, we think we have a real picture of what goes on there every day.

We’re glad to report that most personal injury claims are settled without setting foot inside a court. But if it turns out that court is the preferred option, we can assure you there is nothing to be concerned about and we’ll be at your side from day one. How does it work?

Which Court?

First of all, it depends where your case is being heard. In Circuit Court cases, your case will be presented in Court by your Barrister. In High Court cases, you will be represented by a Senior Counsel as well as a Barrister (Junior Counsel). A pre-trial consultation takes place with your Counsel either on the day of the trial or within a day or two previously. It’s important to remember that first impressions are important in every walk of life and the courts are no different. You should dress in an appropriate manner for your court appearances.

Where do I get a barrister?

At Gary Matthews Solicitors, we’ll source only the best people to work with and our experienced Barrister will lead you through your evidence. Make sure that you answer all questions as best you can. Try to avoid giving hasty or confused replies. If you are not sure of the answer of any question, you should say so. After the examination by your own Barrister, the Defendant’s Barrister will cross-examine, in an attempt to illicit details from you which may be favourable to the Defendant’s case. You should also expect some questions from the judge but sometimes this may not be the case.

What happens after my court date?

Once your evidence is completed, the evidence of any other witnesses is taken in the same way. In regard to medical evidence, medical practitioners may be in attendance in Court but more usually, their evidence is admitted in the form of medical reports handed into the Judge. When all the witnesses have been heard, and Counsel has made any relevant points to the Court, the Judge usually makes his/her decision there and then, or s/he may adjourn for a short time for consideration or, on occasions, postpone his/her judgement to another day. The judge delivers a decision on liability, and if deciding in favour of the Plaintiff, will make an award of damages as compensation.

Like any working environment, certain procedures and protocol must follow and it’s important that you have an understanding of these. This means there’ll be no surprises for you on the day. We have over 20 years’ experience in personal injury law and if you do go to court, you’ll be in safe hands with Gary Matthews Solicitors.

Click on this link here to call the office for a no obligation enquiry and speak directly to Mr Matthews.

Complete our no obligation online enquiry form by clicking this link www.gary.ie

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To discuss your claim complete the form below & a member of our team will get back to you.

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Death & Injury toll among cyclists at 10 year high!

Making a Claim: What every cyclist needs to know.

You may cycle to work, school or college every day. Or you might just like nothing better than a leisurely cycle through Ireland’s beautiful countryside. However often you get on your bike, accidents can happen and it’s best to be prepared. We’re sorry to report that the RSA say that in the period 1997-2010, well over 600 cyclists have been killed or seriously injured in a road traffic accident while on a bike in Ireland. If you’re a cyclist, there are a few things you need to know.

Cycling accidents can come in a number of shapes and sizes. From a driver pulling out of a side road or making a turn or not looking properly, if you’re in the wrong place at the wrong time, the consequences can be serious for you.

If you are in an accident and all or part of the blame can be attributed to someone else, then you may be entitled to compensation. Usually, this compensation will involve cover for injuries sustained or indeed damage to property, like the bike in question. Compensation may also cover issues which develop after the incident which are a result of the accident itself. While you are at the scene of the accident, try and take in as much as you can. From the car registration to a description of the events that led to the accident, try and remember as much as possible. The more detail you can provide, the stronger your case may be. So, from insurance details to witnesses (and even use your mobile camera phone if possible), try and remember and record as much of your accident scene as possible.

At Gary Matthews Solicitors, as cycling accident compensation claims specialists, we have been helping our clients claim for cycling accident compensation, for years. If you have been in an accident while out on your bike, you may be entitled to claim compensation. We’ll sit down with you and explain all your options as well as the likely outcome.

If you have been involved in a bicycle accident, click on this link here  to call the office for a no obligation enquiry 

Complete our no obligation online enquiry form  by clicking this link www.gary.ie 

 

  • Cyclists make up about 2% of traffic on Irish roads, they account for up to 8% of injuries.

  • In 2015 9 Cyclists died on Irish Roads.

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Work Injuries can have serious impact! Find out how to claim.

What to do if you’ve had an accident at work.

An employer is required by law to provide safe working environments for their employees. There are health and safety regulations that must be adhered to, to reduce the occurrence of an accident at work.

If an employer has been negligent to his or her duties they are liable for the cause of an injury at work. Generally it must be proven that an employer has proved negligence in the work place but in some instances it is not necessary to prove negligence for an employee to be entitled to a accident in work compensation claim.

What to do if you have received an injury in work:

  • Once the accident has occurred, report it as soon as possible to your employer or someone in authority.
  • Get a medical checkup. It is beneficial for your case to have records of all injuries sustained. Some companies have insurance policies in place to cater for sick pay but the employer is not obliged to pay out while the employee is out of work. The loss of earnings are recovered at the conclusion of the employees’ case.
  • It is advised that the employee does not sign any liability documents until they have spoken to a specialised personal injury solicitor.
  • In the event that the employer attempts to dismiss the employee for proceeding with legal action for their work related injury, this action is in itself a case of unfair dismissal. The employer is entitled to take action in the Labour Courts for unfair dismissal.

If you have sustained an injury at work and want to make an injury at work claim we can help you to do so. Our specialist personal injury solicitors will focus entirely on your needs by providing expert representation to ensure that you receive maximum work accident compensation for your claim. We can provide facilities to assist recovery and we have access to some of the most expert medical consultants.

For further information or advice on your accident at work contact us! 

Click on this link here to call the office for a no obligation enquiry OR complete our no obligation online enquiry form by clicking this link www.gary.ie

The average award for a workplace accident is €28,8856*

Figures obtained from 2014 PIAB Report. 
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