Car Accident Claims Archives - Lacey Solicitors | Specialist Insurance Law Firm

How Do You Determine and Prove Fault After a Car Accident?

Posted on 4 November 2025 by Lacey Solicitors

Road traffic accidents can become complicated when everyone involved denies they are at fault. Who is it that decides who was at fault after an RTA and how do you prove it wasn’t you?

Car accidents can leave you with lasting mental trauma and permanent physical disabilities. The worse the accident is, the more likely it is that those involved will shirk the blame. It’s understandable. Nobody wants to be responsible for hurting another person or destroying property.

Unfortunately, traffic accidents happen every day in Northern Ireland. Naturally, your first call should be to an expert car accident and personal injury lawyer in your area. Lacey Solicitors are on-hand to help. Let’s begin by understanding who determines fault in an accident.

Rear-Ended on Donegall Street: Who Decides Blame?

If you are injured in a car accident in Belfast, working out blame is often more complex than it first seems. This is because it is natural for everyone to deny responsibility. There is always at least one person who is to blame for an accident, however, but who is it that works out who?

The Judge

Ultimately, if everyone denies that they are at fault for the car crash, then the judge and the court system will be the ones who decide blame. There are a few steps before you get to the court system, though, which provide those seeking to claim compensation for their injuries opportunities to set the record straight.

The Police

If you have a claim for whiplash after a minor incident, you may wish to not involve the police. Otherwise, the police will be the first respondents to any accident bad enough to warrant a personal injury claim.

When they arrive on the scene, the police will assess the damages and record everything that they see and do. They will gather evidence, speak to witnesses, and make their own judgements over who is to blame.

If the at-fault party in the car accident is not obvious and the drivers all deny responsibility, then the insurance companies and the RTA solicitors can debate it out.

Police investigators can use the placement of the damage to your car to decide who was to blame, and to build an overview of the accident. For example:

Driver’s Side Damage to One Vehicle + Front End Damage to Second Vehicle = Driver one is likely at fault. This looks like driver one pulled out onto the road from a junction without spotting driver 2, who then collided with them.
Driver One Damage to Rear of Vehicle + Driver Two Damage to Front End = Driver two is likely at fault. It looks like driver one has been rear-ended.
Damage to the front of both vehicles would indicate a head-on collision.

In the event of single car accidents, damage to the car and to road furniture might still help the police to determine what happened.

Insurance Companies

Your insurance company will be eager to prove you were not at fault and will gather as much evidence as it can on your behalf. Similarly, any other drivers who may be at-fault will have their insurance companies do the same thing for them.

Car Accident and Injury Claim Lawyers

You should speak to a car accident solicitor about your case as soon as you can after a car accident. Seek representation to prevent the insurance companies from taking advantage of you. Your road traffic accident solicitor is your best chance of proving you are not at-fault, or of representing you if a judge determines that you were partially to blame for the car crash, after all.

How to Prove Fault After a Car Accident?

Contact an RTA lawyer as soon as you can. Your car accident solicitor can advise you on what evidence will help prove your case. They can help you accumulate necessary paperwork and liaise with police officers and officers of the court on your behalf. They are a key tool for proving you were not to blame… or for defending your actions, should the opposite be true.

Common Road Traffic Offences in Cities Like Belfast

Posted on 4 November 2025 by Lacey Solicitors

City life is fraught with dangerous drivers and fender benders. Could you be guilty of these common road traffic offences or are you a victim? Speaking to a specialist RTA lawyer could help.

Cities Like Belfast Encounter Constant Traffic, Making the Risks of RTOs High

In any big city where there are many people living and working, there is an influx of traffic all day long. Peak times such as school closing or work ending at 3 or 5 pm can make things even worse. After dark, the chances of encountering a drunk or drugged driver increase. There is never a “safe” time of day to drive in a city.

The Motoring Offences Statistics for Northern Ireland indicated that there were an incredible 33,607 detected motoring offences between March 2024 and February 2025. With Belfast being the largest population centre in the country, it stands to reason that a large portion of those took place within the city.

RTOs Fall into 2 Categories: Dangerous Driving or Careless Driving

In NI and the UK, RTOs fall into two categories: dangerous driving or careless/inconsiderate driving.

Careless or Inconsiderate Driving Offences

Careless driving covers road traffic offences such as panic braking, failing to look both ways at a junction, and distracted driving, such as checking your sat nav. If you are driving without due care and attention to the road ahead, then you are a careless driver.

Dangerous Driving Offences

Dangerous driving, on the other hand, includes causes of the worst types of car crash. If you use drugs or drink-drive, then you are a dangerous driver. Speeding, ignoring stop signs or running traffic lights can all count as dangerous behaviour on NI roads.

Careless driving and dangerous driving can both cause accidents. When dangerous drivers cause the accidents through committing a road traffic offence, however, the injuries resulting from the collision are worse.

What are the Common Road Traffic Offences in Belfast, NI?

Living in a big city means that you probably see more road traffic offences than most people do. Look out for the following, especially during peak periods.

Speeding

Speeding falls into the category of dangerous driving. By racing other drivers, attempting to overtake vehicles at maximum speed, or by going too fast in the city streets, you are breaking the law.

Overtaking

Overtaking should only be performed when necessary. Overtaking at an unsafe juncture or overtaking more than one vehicle at once is outright dangerous.

Drink/Drug Driving

The aforementioned Police Service NI motoring statistics revealed that there were 2,910 incidents of drink or drug driving last year. This is the second most common type of RTO, with the comparatively minor “breach of signs & signals” the only area which exceeds that number.

Mobile Phone Use

As you may have guessed, those using their mobile phone while driving are committing an offence. Don’t do it or you could face points on your driving license and/or a fine.

Minor Driving Offences

If you have committed a relatively minor driving offence, then your actions have not yet caused an accident. Minor driving offences encountered in Belfast city centre might include a failure to ensure your passengers are wearing a seatbelt, missing road signs or markings, and driving too closely to other vehicles.

What to do as a Victim of an RTO

If you suffer a car accident or injury because of another person’s road traffic offence, then you may be eligible to claim compensation for those injuries. Contacting an expert traffic accident solicitor should be your next step. Contact Lacey Solicitors Belfast to discuss your potential car accident compensation claim.

What To Do If You Have a Car Crash in a Rented Vehicle (Northern Ireland)

Posted on 4 November 2025 by Lacey Solicitors

From Antrim to Ardglass, getting into a road traffic accident when you are in a rented vehicle adds a new level of discomfort to what is already a difficult time. Follow this guide to what to do after you crash your rental car or van in NI.

If you have a collision while you are driving a rental vehicle, or even if your rental car or van takes damage when you have parked it, then you have responsibilities to the rental car company, to yourself, and to the other driver.

Car crashes are already stressful, so Lacey Solicitors put together this guide to RTAs in a rental car to keep you informed.

Crashing a Rental Vehicle is Stressful

When you crash your own vehicle, you know which insurance company to contact. When you crash a hire vehicle, you might not. Worse, you have extra steps to follow after your accident to make sure you protect your own interests – and your finances.

This handy guide to what to do if you crash your rental van or hired car should take some of the panic out of an RTA in a vehicle which is not yours.

What Happens if You Crash a Rental Car in NI?

If you crash in a rented vehicle on Northern Irish roads, you are covered by UK law. This means that you:

Have a duty to stop and help. If you cannot help, then call 999 and report the accident. Preferably both of the above.
Set up your warning triangle and turn on your hazard lights if you or another vehicle are obstructing the road.
Photograph the accident, including damage to road furniture and direction of travel of all involved.
Call your rental company and report the accident. Ask for further advice. They will have a policy in place to deal with accidents. Usually this involves filing a claim for damages and an accident report form.
Contact your own road traffic accident solicitor. They will advise you on what you should do next.

Lacey Solicitors, Belfast, offer support for car crash victims throughout Northern Ireland. We can help you bring a claim for compensation against the perpetrator while negotiating the intricacies of an RTA in a vehicle you did not own.

The First Thing You Must Do After a Car Collision

Calling for help or to report the accident, no matter how small, makes a paper trail for the rental company’s insurers to follow. This makes it a vital first step after crashing a rented car or hired van. Making sure people are safe can go hand in hand with this. For example, calling the ambulance for the injured or calling the police to alert them to the accident.

You MUST report all car accidents to the police in the UK within 24 hours.

Checking Your Rental Car Company’s Policy

You should always review the documents you were given when you hired the car after an accident in a rented vehicle. This should set out what you are liable for and what the car’s insurance covers.

In Northern Ireland, your car hire company may be one of the following:

Sixt Northern Ireland, Kings Self Drive, Self Drive Belfast, Enterprise Car & Van Hire, Practical Car and Van Hire, SVRgo Self Drive, Hertz Belfast International, SJS Vehicle Hire, or Drivalia, Belfast.

Who is Liable for an Accident in a Rented Van?

If you have an accident while driving your rented car or van, you are liable for any loss or damages which you caused.

Whether you did or did not cause the accident, the rental company’s insurance firm, or the separate insurance you took out to cover the rented vehicle should cover the damages. Check your paperwork to see if there is an excess due.

Lastly, visit Lacey Solicitors in Belfast for expert advice on road traffic accidents, whether you crash your own car, or someone else’s. Use our contact us page to get in touch and begin the process of claiming compensation after a collision.

What To Do After a Hit and Run Accident?

Posted on 4 November 2025 by Lacey Solicitors

Have you been the victim of a hit and run car crash? Has another driver side-swiped, rear-ended, or otherwise damaged your vehicle and left the scene? Hit and run accidents can be confusing. This guide to what to do after a hit and run accident will help clarify what you need to know about RTAs.

How Common are Hit and Run Accidents (Northern Ireland)?

The Police Service of Northern Ireland releases annual statistics into the injuries and fatalities suffered by road users on NI roads, each year. Although the 2023-2024 statistics showed a slight decline in fatal accidents, the high number of accidents speak for themselves.

In the grand scheme of things, fatal hit and run accidents involving pedestrians in Northern Ireland are fairly rare. However, it is far more common for non-fatal, property damage-related hit and run accidents to occur.

Hit and run accidents are also known as accidents where the other driver failed to stop. There may be a valid reason for this – such as an attack of ill-health at the wheel. It may be that the other driver simply did not notice that they hit you.

However, leaving the scene of an accident is a criminal offence. If you fled the scene of a car crash, you should go and see the police as soon as possible. This is also true if another driver hits you and flees the scene. You should also seek out the services of an exceptional Northern Irish solicitor who can guide you through the legal processes of what to do next.

What is the Punishment for a Hit & Run in the UK?

Drivers who flee the scene of an accident in the UK can cost themselves 10 points on their license. If the accident resulted in death or harm, then they can also receive a prison sentence. Punishments might also include a hefty fine and a driving ban.

What is the Minimum Penalty for a Hit-and-Run?

Failure to stop or report an accident carries a minimum penalty of 5 points on your license, up to 26 weeks in prison, and a fine of up to £5,000 (BRAKE, 2025). You have obligations after a road traffic accident which you can read about in our previous blog.

What Happens if Someone Hits Your Car and Drives Off in Northern Ireland?

If you live in Northern Ireland and another driver has failed to stop after hitting you in an accident, then you should make yourself safe after an accident. Later, you should speak to an expert car crash solicitor. Belfast-based and fully schooled in road traffic accidents, hit and run accidents, and the penalties which come with them, Lacey Solicitors are perfectly placed to offer impartial advice which could aid you as you claim compensation after a car accident – even in the event of a hit and run.

Should You Speak to a Car Accident Solicitor After a Hit and Run?

If you have been involved in a hit and run accident, then you should report it to the police. If the police find the responsible party, then you should speak to a car crash solicitor after the hit and run to begin the process of claiming compensation.

If you have been hit by a driver who fails to stop at the scene and you do not know who they are, then a personal injury and car crash solicitor could work on your behalf to investigate the incident. Either way, you should seek legal advice on how to proceed.

Contact Lacey Solicitors online today to take the next step.

Top-Rated Car Accident Solicitors Belfast: Your Complete Guide to Legal Help After a Crash (2025 Update)

Posted on 4 November 20254 November 2025 by Lacey Solicitors

Introduction: Understanding Car Accidents in Belfast

Every day, Belfast’s bustling roads witness dozens of vehicles navigating tight junctions, unpredictable weather, and heavy commuter traffic. While most journeys end without incident, some don’t. Fender benders, rear-end collisions, and parking lot scrapes are all part of city life — but occasionally, more serious and uncommon accidents occur that can leave lasting physical, emotional, and financial scars.

If you’ve suffered injury or loss due to someone else’s negligence, working with car accident solicitors in Belfast can make a crucial difference. From handling insurance disputes to securing compensation, these professionals are trained to help you rebuild and recover.

The Growing Need for Expert Legal Help

As Northern Ireland’s roads become busier, accident claims are increasing. According to the Department for Infrastructure, hundreds of serious collisions occur annually across Belfast and surrounding areas. Victims often face not just physical pain but complex paperwork, uncooperative insurers, and emotional strain.

That’s where car accident solicitors Belfast come in — ensuring that victims aren’t left to navigate the legal maze alone. Their expertise in local traffic regulations, insurance law, and personal injury claims ensures fair outcomes and proper justice.

Common and Uncommon Car Accidents in Northern Ireland

Car crashes in Belfast vary widely in cause and severity. While some are minor, others involve unusual factors such as weather or wildlife. Below are the most common — and uncommon — types you might encounter.

Everyday Collisions: Fender Benders and Rear-End Crashes

Typical urban accidents often occur in slow-moving traffic or at junctions. Even low-speed impacts can cause whiplash, minor head injuries, and vehicle damage. Victims may underestimate their right to compensation, assuming that “it’s just a bump.” However, medical bills, repair costs, and lost income add up — and legal advice is essential.

Uncommon Accidents: Aquaplaning, Animal Collisions, and Pileups

Northern Ireland’s unpredictable weather and rural roads create unique risks that differ from those in other UK regions.

Aquaplane (Hydroplane) Accidents in Northern Ireland

Aquaplaning occurs when tyres lose contact with the road due to standing water. Even experienced drivers can lose control when traveling too fast through puddles or flooded areas. While rare, these incidents can cause significant crashes.

Legal Insight: If another driver loses control and collides with you due to aquaplaning, their failure to adjust to road conditions may be considered negligence — making you eligible for compensation.

Animal Collisions on Northern Irish Roads

Though uncommon in central Belfast, rural roads across County Down, Antrim, and Armagh see frequent animal-related accidents. Deer, badgers, and sheep can suddenly appear, leading to swerves or collisions.

Solicitors can help determine liability and ensure your insurance covers damage or injury caused by these unpredictable events.

Motorway Pileups and Multi-Vehicle Crashes

Motorway accidents involving multiple vehicles, such as those on the M2 or A12, often lead to complex legal cases. Determining fault among several drivers requires detailed investigation, traffic reports, and expert testimony.

Having specialist car accident solicitors in Belfast can ensure that your role is accurately represented — and that you receive fair compensation.

Why Hire Car Accident Solicitors Belfast?

Accidents can leave you physically hurt and financially drained. Professional legal help not only relieves the stress but also ensures your claim is handled properly.

Expertise in Local Traffic Laws and Insurance Claims

Local solicitors understand Belfast’s road network, police reporting processes, and court systems. This insight gives them an edge in building a strong compensation claim.

Negotiating with Insurance Companies

Insurance providers often aim to minimize payouts. Your solicitor will negotiate assertively to ensure you’re compensated fairly for medical bills, lost wages, and emotional suffering.

Court Representation and Legal Protection

If your case escalates to court, having a solicitor ensures you’re represented by someone who understands the nuances of Northern Irish law and the legal precedents that apply to your case.

Steps to Take After a Car Accident in Belfast

1. Ensure Safety and Report the Incident

Move to a safe location, check for injuries, and call emergency services if needed. Always report the accident to the PSNI (Police Service of Northern Ireland).

2. Gather Evidence and Witness Statements

Photograph the scene, note registration numbers, and collect witness details. These can be invaluable in supporting your claim.

3. Contact a Specialist Car Accident Solicitor

Reach out to an experienced car accident solicitor in Belfast as soon as possible. Early advice can prevent costly mistakes, such as signing unfavorable insurance agreements.

How Much Compensation Can You Claim?

Every case is unique, but the following factors influence your claim:

Factors Affecting Your Settlement Amount

Severity of injuries
Loss of income
Vehicle repair/replacement costs
Emotional distress and trauma
Long-term care needs

Common Types of Car Accident Compensation

Compensation Type	Description
General Damages	Covers pain, suffering, and loss of amenity.
Special Damages	Includes lost wages and medical expenses.
Property Damage	Compensation for vehicle and belongings.
Psychological Injury	For anxiety, PTSD, or emotional trauma.

Case Studies: Belfast Car Accident Claims

Case 1: A driver on the M2 was injured when another vehicle aquaplaned. The solicitor secured a £12,000 compensation claim.
Case 2: A motorcyclist hit by a car swerving to avoid a deer received a settlement covering both physical and mental recovery.

These examples highlight how skilled solicitors navigate even rare accident scenarios to achieve justice.

FAQs About Car Accident Solicitors Belfast

1. How soon should I contact a solicitor after a car accident?
Immediately — early legal advice strengthens your claim and preserves vital evidence.

2. Can I claim compensation if the accident was partly my fault?
Yes. Northern Ireland law allows for shared liability, meaning you may still receive partial compensation.

3. What does it cost to hire a car accident solicitor in Belfast?
Many operate on a “No Win, No Fee” basis, meaning you only pay if your case succeeds.

4. How long does a car accident claim take?
Simple cases may resolve in weeks; complex multi-vehicle or injury claims can take several months.

5. Can passengers or pedestrians file claims too?
Absolutely — passengers, cyclists, and pedestrians are equally entitled to compensation if injured.

6. What evidence do I need for a successful claim?
Police reports, medical records, photos, and witness statements are crucial for building your case.

Conclusion: Protect Your Rights with Belfast’s Best Car Accident Solicitors

Road accidents — whether minor or catastrophic — can change your life in an instant. Fortunately, Lacey Solicitors are here to guide you through every step of your recovery and legal journey. By seeking timely legal advice, you safeguard not only your finances but also your future peace of mind.

👉 Don’t wait — consult an experienced solicitor today and take the first step toward fair compensation and justice.

Skin Injury and Psoriasis Claims in Road Traffic Accidents| Lacey Solicitors NI

Posted on 9 October 20258 October 2025 by Lacey Solicitors

When we think of road traffic accident claims, car crashes or accidents at work, we often imagine fractures, whiplash, or head injuries. However, Lacey Solicitors are seeing an increase in claims for dermatology-related injuries—those affecting the skin. These types of claims are becoming more common and can cause serious long-term effects.

From burns and scarring to psoriasis flare-ups triggered by trauma or stress, skin conditions following a car accident can lead to significant pain, disfigurement, and psychological suffering. Understanding how these conditions are treated within the legal process is key to ensuring fair compensation.

Can You Claim for Skin Injuries After a Car Accident?

The skin can be damaged in many ways during a collision. Common dermatological issues in road traffic accident personal injury claims include:

Lacerations and abrasions – from broken glass, airbags, or seatbelts, often leading to permanent scarring.
Burns – caused by vehicle fires, airbag deployment, friction from seatbelts, or contact with hot metal and chemicals.
Bruising and tissue damage – which can result in long-term skin discolouration or sensitivity.
Scarring and disfigurement – particularly visible injuries that may impact confidence, self-esteem, and quality of life.

Even relatively minor-looking skin injuries can have lasting physical and emotional consequences.

Psoriasis and Skin Conditions Triggered by Car Accidents

A lesser-known but increasingly recognised issue in road traffic accident claims is the exacerbation or triggering of psoriasis and other chronic skin conditions.

Can a car accident cause psoriasis to flare up?

Yes. Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition that can be triggered or worsened by physical trauma or emotional stress – both common after a car accident. This phenomenon is known as the Koebner response, where new psoriasis lesions develop on previously unaffected skin following an injury or stressor.

In personal injury cases, psoriasis can appear or worsen due to:

Physical trauma to the skin (cuts, friction burns, or surgery).
Psychological stress or anxiety after the accident.
Medication side effects used to treat other injuries.

This can leave victims struggling with chronic pain, itching, and embarrassment, often requiring ongoing dermatological treatment.

Medical Evidence in Dermatology and Psoriasis Claims

To support a claim involving dermatological injuries or psoriasis, expert medical evidence is essential. A consultant dermatologist will typically:

Assess the extent and visibility of any scarring, lesions, or flare-ups.
Provide an opinion on causation—whether the condition was caused or exacerbated by the accident.
Evaluate treatment options and the likelihood of future improvement or recurrence.
Comment on psychological impact, as visible skin conditions often affect self-esteem and mental health.

This evidence forms a key part of calculating pain, suffering, and loss of amenity within a compensation claim.

Valuing Dermatology and Psoriasis-Related Compensation

Compensation in road traffic accident claims for dermatology issues depends on several factors:

Severity and visibility of scarring or skin lesions.
Impact on daily life, work, and mental wellbeing.
Permanency or likelihood of recurrence (particularly with psoriasis).
Treatment requirements, including creams, UV therapy, counselling, or cosmetic surgery.

Case Study: Lacey Solicitors Secure £23,000 for Taxi Driver with Psoriasis Flare-Up

A recent case handled by Lacey Solicitors that settled in 2025, highlights the importance of experienced lawyers recognising dermatological issues in personal injury claims.

Our client, a taxi driver, was involved in a low-speed road traffic collision with a bus. Thankfully, no one suffered major physical injuries. Our client suffered minor whiplash injuries that settled quickly but mentioned to our office that he had a pre-existing history of psoriasis, which flared up significantly in the weeks following the accident.

For around two to three weeks post-accident, he suffered itchy, inflamed patches on his scalp and hips, leading to disturbed sleep and emotional strain. The stress of the ongoing claim also contributed to the psoriasis being slow to settle.

All the passengers in the vehicle were represented by another firm and settled their cases for £2,000 each. When Lacey Solicitors were appointed to represent the taxi driver, we were initially offered the same sum of £2,000.

However, our team rejected that offer immediately and instructed a consultant dermatologist to provide an expert medical opinion. The dermatologist confirmed that the accident and subsequent stress had caused a significant psoriasis flare-up and that the condition was slow to resolve due to the ongoing psychological impact.

Following intense negotiations, Lacey Solicitors settled the case for £23,000 – a result £21,000 higher than any other passenger in the vehicle.

This case demonstrates the value of specialist legal and medical input in identifying and evidencing the true impact of dermatological and stress-related injuries.

The Psychological Impact of Dermatology Injuries

Visible skin injuries often cause more than physical pain – they can also lead to depression, anxiety, and social withdrawal. This is particularly true for individuals who develop psoriasis after an accident, as the condition is often unpredictable and difficult to manage.

In these situations, it is important that solicitors seek both dermatological and psychological reports to ensure the full extent of the injury is recognised and compensated.

How Lacey Solicitors Can Help

At Lacey Solicitors, we understand how distressing it can be to live with scarring, burns, or a long-term skin condition such as psoriasis after a road traffic accident.

Our specialist personal injury solicitors in Northern Ireland will:

Obtain expert dermatology and psychological reports.
Gather photographic and witness evidence.
Calculate your full financial and emotional losses.
Negotiate with insurers to secure the maximum compensation available.

We act for clients across Belfast, Dublin, Derry, Newry, and throughout Northern Ireland.

Contact Lacey Solicitors Today

If you’ve suffered skin injuries, scarring, burns, or a psoriasis flare-up following a road traffic accident, contact Lacey Solicitors for expert legal advice. We’ll help you obtain the compensation you deserve so you can focus on your recovery.

Roundabout Accidents in Northern Ireland. Who is at Fault?

Posted on 6 October 2025 by Ruaidhri Austin

Roundabouts keep traffic moving but they are also a common scene for collisions. Working out who is at fault in a roundabout accident can be complicated. Fault usually turns on who had right of way, who signalled correctly and whether any driver changed lanes or entered unsafely.

At Lacey Solicitors, we help innocent drivers, passengers, insurers, cyclists and pedestrians across Ireland and Northern Ireland resolve roundabout accident claims and assist in determining liabilty.

How Roundabouts Work

The Golden rule is always: traffic already on the roundabout has priority. Drivers entering must give way to vehicles approaching from the right. Both the Rules of the Road (Ireland) and Official Highway Code (Northern Ireland) require motorists to:

Give way to the right.
Use the correct lane for their intended exit.
Signal left when leaving.
Avoid sudden lane changes or cutting across traffic.

Common Causes of Roundabout Accidents in NI

Failing to yield to circulating traffic.
Entering or exiting from the wrong lane.
Changing lanes suddenly.
Not indicating correctly.
Tailgating or harsh braking.
Speeding or wet-weather skids.
Driver distraction.

Typical Fault Scenarios

1. Entering without giving way:
A driver who joins and collides with a vehicle already on the roundabout is normally at fault.

2. Lane discipline errors:
Drivers who cut across lanes or exit from the wrong lane may be fully or at least partially liable if an accident occurs.

3. Failure to signal:
Not indicating if it contributes to a collision can result in a driver being held to a degree liable for the accident.

4. Rear-end impacts:
Usually the rear driver will be found at fault.

5. Collisions with cyclists or motorcyclists:
These vulnerable road users should be afforded strong legal protection due to their increased risk of serious injury. It is vital that you take care and look for cyclists and motorcyclists.

Proving Fault in Roundabout Accidents

Detailed documentation can help establish fault, clarify the circumstances of the accident, and protect your legal rights. Useful evidence includes:

Dashcam or CCTV footage.
Witness statements.
Garda or PSNI reports.
Photographs of vehicle positions and damage.
Time-stamped messages or insurer correspondence.

Shared Responsibility

Whether it is Sandyknowes Roundabout Glengormley or Caw Roundabout in Derry, an inescapable truth is that in many roundabout accidents, fault is often shared between the drivers.

Liability is often be apportioned where both parties contributed to the collision, perhaps through poor observation, incorrect lane use, or failure to signal properly. This legal principle, known as contributory negligence, can reduce the amount of compensation awarded to reflect each driver’s degree of responsibility.

For example, where both drivers contributed equally to the accident, your compensation might be reduced by 50%.

Useful evidence like the evidence outlined above is critical to assisting your car accident solicitor in proving the other driver is at fault.

What to Do After a Roundabout Accident

Ensure everyone is safe.
Exchange driver and insurance details.
Take photos of the scene if it is safe to do so.
Report serious incidents to Gardaí or PSNI.
Seek legal advice before speaking to insurers.

How Lacey Solicitors Can Help

With offices in Dublin and Belfast, Lacey Solicitors represent clients in all types of road traffic accident claims, including complex liability disputes arising from roundabout collisions.

Our experienced team can:

Investigate fault and liability using expert accident reconstruction and evidence analysis.
Engage directly with insurers and third parties to progress your claim efficiently.
Pursue full compensation for your injuries, vehicle damage, loss of earnings, and related expenses.

We provide clear, practical legal advice and ensure that every client receives a personal, professional, and transparent service from start to finish.

The Risks of Heavy Goods Vehicle, Truck, and Lorry Accidents on Roads in County Antrim

Posted on 29 September 202529 September 2025 by Lacey Solicitors

Road Traffic Accidents involving HGVs like trucks, lorries, and other long vehicles, come with a separate set of risks. Personal injuries suffered as a result of lorry accidents are likely to be severe. Heavy Goods Vehicles are loaded with extra weight, meaning any lesser vehicle involved in the collision runs the risk of complete destruction.

The Antrim and Newtownabbey area is a major hub for the transport and storage industry. Since 2021, the area has had one of the highest concentrations of transport and storage business units in Northern Ireland. Its location provides easy access for logistics firms to distribute goods across the region.

If you have been in an accident with a lorry and you have been injured because of it, then you may be eligible to bring a claim for compensation against the lorry driver, company, or other responsible party. You may wish to contact Lacey Solicitors in Belfast for support.

The Constant Threat of HGV Accidents in County Antrim

HGV, lorry and truck accidents are unfortunately common on Belfast roads. We can cite countless road traffic accidents involving lorries in Co. Antrim in recent years.

A 60-year old man spent Christmas 2023 in hospital in critical condition after a collision with a lorry, the Irish Post reported. In January 2025 a motorcyclist died after colliding with a lorry. In September 2024 a man from Ballymoney died after colliding with a lorry. Sadly, these are just a few examples from a long list of lorry-related accidents in County Antrim.

When a car, motorcycle, or even a van collides with a lorry, the consequences are often severe due to the size and weight disparity. For the very vast amount of our clients who are lucky enough to talk away from these types of accidents, their injuries are often severe.

The Added Risks of Lorry and HGV Accidents

Road traffic accidents involving lorry, truck, or other heavy goods vehicles come with additional risks to car crashes between vehicles of a similar size. Our Mr Damian Mcgeady, Partner, was at one stage, himself a HGV driver. He knows all too well the dangers involved when driving a Heavy goods vehicle. These heightened dangers stem from several factors, including longer braking distances and the increased likelihood of mechanical failure due to the heavy loads that fully laden lorries transport.

According to our Partner Damian McGeady, the HGV Accident Risk Factors Include:

Driver fatigue: Lorry drivers often work long hours, which can lead to reduced concentration and slower reaction times.
Unsecured or shifting loads: Poorly secured cargo can move during sudden braking or sharp maneuvers, affecting vehicle stability.
Overloaded vehicles: Exceeding weight limits increases the risk of mechanical failure and can amplify damage in collisions or rollovers.
Vehicle size and structure: HGVs are taller and wider than most vehicles, meaning collisions can cause significantly greater damage to smaller vehicles.
Reduced manoeuvrability in adverse conditions: The size and weight of HGVs make it harder to navigate inclement weather, including rain, ice, or high winds.
Long stopping distances: Fully laden HGVs require considerably more distance to stop than cars or vans, increasing the likelihood of collisions in sudden traffic events.
Blind spots: Large HGVs have substantial blind spots, particularly on the sides and rear, which can make it difficult for drivers to see smaller vehicles.
Mechanical stress: Heavy loads place extra strain on brakes, tires, and suspension systems, raising the risk of failure if not properly maintained.
Driver experience and training: Inexperienced or inadequately trained drivers may misjudge stopping distances, turning radii, or road conditions.

If you have been hit by a lorry or otherwise injured in a crash involving a heavy goods vehicle, then you should speak to a car crash lawyer. Wondering if you can claim for a lorry or HGV accident? Contact Lacey Solicitors right now to find out.

The Hierarchy of Road Users

The Highway Code introduces the hierarchy of road users, which places greater responsibility on those controlling vehicles capable of causing the most harm, such as HGVs. However, this principle does not automatically assign blame to the HGV.

Common Accidents with Large Vehicles

One common scenario that Lacey Solicitors deals with time and time again is when a HGV comes into another lane and causes an accident. Large vehicles with trailers often need to straddle two lanes to safely execute a turn or exit. According to Highway Code Rule 221:

“Large vehicles may need extra road space to turn. You should be aware of this when driving near them and give them plenty of room.”

This rule recognises the limitations of HGVs and requires other road users to adjust their driving accordingly but a HGV should at all times be aware of its surroundings. Liability only arises if the HGV is careless or negligent.

Seeking Compensation After a Truck, Lorry, or HGV Accident

If you were injured having been involved in an accident where the Truck or Lorry was negligent, you should contact a solicitor to speak about a compensation claim. Even where you believe you were partly at fault, you should always seek independent legal advice.

Lacey Solicitors are skilled in seeking compensation after car accidents, bike accidents, and for those injured by an HGV.

Personal Injury Solicitors in Co. Antrim

Lacey Solicitors are an established legal team capable of guiding you smoothly through the process of claiming compensation after a lorry accident. Empathetic and determined to understand your unique circumstances, we can help you prove that your accident happened due to negligence.

Call 028 9089 6540 today to speak to our legal team or read our guidance on Road Traffic Accidents for more information.

Car Written Off After an Accident: What To Do Next and Why You Need a Road Traffic Accident Solicitor

Posted on 25 September 202525 September 2025 by Lacey Solicitors

If you have been involved in an accident and your car has been written off, it means that an assessor, having assessed the damage, decided that it would be uneconomical to repair the vehicle either because the cost of repairs is more than the value, or because the cost of repairs is coming too close to the value. This can be a major inconvenience, especially if you’ve looked after your vehicle with service plans etc. Here’s what you need to know if you find yourself in this situation:

What “Written Off” Means

Having assessed your vehicle and compared the estimated repair costs with your car’s pre-accident value, your repairs have been deemed uneconomical. For example if your car is worth £2000.00 but repaired are expected to be £2500.00 taking into account parts and labour, then your car is deemed uneconomical to repair. If repairs are uneconomical, the car is declared a write-off.

This does not mean that in all cases a car cannot be repaired. In some cases there may be acceptable methods of repair that are cheaper to carry out which would make the vehicle roadworthy. E.g. aftermarket or second hand parts to bring down the costs.

Safety factor: Even if repairable, some vehicles are written off because structural safety can’t be guaranteed.
Categories:
- Category A – total destruction, must be scrapped.
- Category B – body shell destroyed, parts may be salvaged.
- Category S – structural damage, possible to repair.
- Category N – non-structural damage, repairable.

What You’re Entitled To

The Pre-Accident Value. That is, what the market value of your vehicle was immediately prior to the accident. You should receive compensation equal to the value of a similar car (make, model, age, condition) before the crash. If you think a motor assessor or insurer undervalued your car, you can provide evidence such as car sale listings, service history, and independent valuations to challenge that valuation.

Some insurers like to use various guides such as Glass’s guide. While Glass’s aims to provide objective, market-driven data, several factors may cause a vehicle’s specific valuation to feel inaccurate. E.g. if yours was in exceptional condition for its age and mileage, you should be entitled to higher than a similar vehicle of age and make model etc.

In Northern Ireland, we have a smaller market than the rest of the UK with a smaller number of used vehicles. The smaller market can increase the value of a vehicle. E.g. a brand new vehicle that is extremely common in England may not be as common here. At Lacey Solicitors, we appoint independent local motor assessors to rely on actual market availability to assess the pre-accident value of vehicles.

In some cases (Cat S or N), you may buy back the ‘salvage‘ and repair the vehicle privately. The ‘salvage’ is the vehicle in its damaged state after the accident.

FCA Action Against Insurers

The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) recently found that insurers had undervalued thousands of write-off claims, unfairly reducing payouts. As a result:

Over 270,000 motorists are due £200m in compensation.
Practices such as deducting for “assumed pre-existing damage” have been banned.
Insurers must now follow the FCA’s Consumer Duty and treat motorists fairly.
At Lacey Solicitors, our advice is to always seek independent legal representation if you have been involved in a crash. Your Road Traffic Accident Solicitor will appoint an independent motor assessor to give a true, local market reflection of your motor vehicle.

Next Steps After a Write-Off

Contact a road traffic accident solicitor – before accepting any insurer offer.
Gather evidence – accident photos, repair estimates, proof of your car’s condition.
Request a replacement or Credit Hire vehicle – if you’re not at fault, you’re usually entitled to a like-for-like hire car if your vehicle is unroadworthy.

Why Speak to Lacey Solicitors First?

A Road Traffic Accident Solicitor can:

Ensure you receive the full value of your written-off car.
Pursue compensation for injuries and other losses.
Immediately source you a replacement vehicle to keep you mobile whilst your vehicle is being assessed.
Challenge any unfair insurance practices.
Negotiate on your behalf, taking pressure off you at a stressful time.

If your car has been written off after a crash, it can be stressful and confusing. From dealing with insurance claims to understanding your compensation rights, knowing the right steps to take is crucial. For expert guidance, contact Lacey Solicitors’ Insurance Lawyers, using our Online Portal who can help ensure you get the full value of your car, pursue any injury claims, and challenge unfair insurer practices.

The Shocking Truth About Pedestrian Accidents in Northern Irish Roads

Posted on 19 September 202521 September 2025 by Lacey Solicitors

Road traffic accidents happen every day across Northern Ireland, but pedestrians are often the most vulnerable victims. Unlike drivers or passengers, pedestrians lack the protection of a vehicle, leaving them at high risk of serious injuries such as fractures, back injuries, spinal cord damage, or even brain injuries.

At Lacey Solicitors, leading car crash lawyers in Belfast, we routinely handle pedestrian injury claims and have successfully secured compensation for many victims. Ruaidhrí Austin, Partner, recently secured the sum of £100,000.00 for a Pedstrian who was in an accident when he was crossing the road. However, the statistics around pedestrian accidents in Northern Ireland remain alarming.

Pedestrian Accident Statistics in Northern Ireland

According to the PSNI, there were 4,753 car crashes in NI in 2024 resulting in 1,008 people killed or seriously injured (KSI). While drivers and passengers account for most fatalities, pedestrians consistently rank as one of the most affected groups. Those travelling on foot representing 14.9% of all KSI collisions. December is statistically the most dangerous month for pedestrians.

Although overall road traffic accidents have decreased by 22% since 2015/2016, pedestrians continue to face disproportionate risks.

Why Pedestrians Are at Disproportionate Risk

Pedestrian accident data recorded between 2019 and 2023 by the Department of Infrastructure show that pedestrians are disproportionately represented in the KSI statistics.

While pedestrians represented 14.9% of all fatalities in car accidents in NI in 2024, that percentage became 20% when taken over a five year period. The figure is disproportionate because those same statistics mention that pedestrians represent only 6% of all road miles travelled in the region.

This stark contrast shows that even though pedestrians spend far less time on the roads than drivers, their risk of serious injury or death is significantly higher. Simply walking home at night can put someone at risk of life-changing injuries – underscoring the critical need for pedestrian safety awareness.

What to do if you are hit by a car?

If you are involved in a pedestrian car accident:

Ensure your safety – move to a secure location if possible.
Seek immediate medical attention, even if injuries seem minor at first.
Contact the police to report the incident.
Consult a specialist car accident solicitor who can guide you through a compensation claim.

Pedestrian accidents can leave victims temporarily or permanently incapacitated. Legal advice from an experienced RTA solicitor ensures you understand your rights and helps you pursue financial recovery to support your physical and emotional rehabilitation.

Contact Lacey Solicitors, using our Online Portal to discuss your accident. Lacey Solicitors, with offices in Belfast and Dublin are respected as car accident specialists, for expert guidance on pedestrian injury claims.

[i]https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3256841/

[ii]https://www.psni.police.uk/sites/default/files/2025-03/2024%20Key%20Statistics%20report.pdf

[iii]https://www.infrastructure-ni.gov.uk/system/files/publications/infrastructure/pedestrian-ksi-casualties-in-northern-ireland-2019-2023.pdf