PSNI Releases 2023-2024 Road Traffic Accident Statistics: A review of Injuries and Fatalities in Northern Ireland

The provisional road traffic collision figures for 2023-2024 have been released, revealing a concerning 7,833 recorded injuries resulting from 4,977 road traffic accidents. Road Traffic Accidents (RTAs) continue to account for the majority of personal injuries reported annually in Northern Ireland.

 

Road Traffic Statistics in Northern Ireland 2023-24

 

Provisional figures for road traffic collisions in Northern Ireland for 2023-2024 have been released, offering important insights into the latest trends surrounding road traffic accidents.  The Police Service for Northern Ireland (PSNI) has broken down the data by age, gender, and month, revealing key patterns in fatalities.

During this period, 39 drivers tragically lost their lives in fatal road traffic accidents, while 8 pedestrians were killed, with a higher risk for males aged 25-64. In a surprising statistic, only one pedal cyclist died from injuries in a road traffic accident. A total of 68 people lost their lives on Northern Ireland’s roads in 2024, a slight decrease from 71 in the previous year.

The report highlights a concerning increase in drink driving which is further supported by the BBC article which confirmed that an alarming 132 motorists were arrested for drunk driving between December 1st and 15th, 2024. 

For those injured in a road traffic accident, many seek to pursue a personal injury claim if they were not at fault. Whether involving passengers, pedestrians, or no-fault drivers, road traffic accidents are common, and many individuals turn to personal injury solicitors to guide them through the process of compensation claims and protect their financial interests.

 

Can You Make a Personal Injury Claim for Car Accidents in the UK and Northern Ireland?

 

At Lacey Solicitors, our advice to anyone involved in a collision is to speak with a solicitor who specialises in road traffic accidents. A specialist solicitor can offer valuable assistance, ensuring peace of mind when dealing with any damage caused, injuries suffered, or financial losses incurred. They will provide expert guidance throughout the claims process, helping you navigate complex legal procedures and maximize your compensation entitlement.

After a road traffic accident in Northern Ireland, you can make a compensation claim against the at-fault driver and their insurance company. In most cases, the at-fault party will cover any legal costs, allowing you to pursue your claim with minimal financial burden.

 

Can I claim Personal Injury even if the Accident was My Fault?

 

Even if you are largely at fault for a road traffic accident in the UK or Northern Ireland, you may still be able to make a personal injury claim under the principle of “contributory negligence.” This legal concept allows you to seek a percentage of damages from the other party if they share some of the responsibility for the accident.

For example, if you were making a right-hand turn and failed to check your mirrors, not noticing a vehicle overtaking you at the time, it could be argued that your actions contributed to the collision. However, it may also be argued that the other driver overtook you when it was unsafe to do so, which could share some of the liability.

Contributory negligence can reduce the amount of compensation you are entitled to, depending on the degree of fault attributed to each party. It’s important to consult with a specialist road traffic accident solicitor to evaluate your case, as they can help you navigate the complexities of contributory negligence and ensure that your rights are protected.

 

How much Compensation can you get for a Personal Injury after a Car Accident?

 

The amount of compensation you could receive for personal injury after a road traffic accident (RTA) can vary, and it’s impossible to accurately predict without a detailed assessment. Even advanced road traffic accident compensation calculators can only provide rough estimates, as each case is unique and depends on various factors such as the severity of the injury, the impact on your daily life and any medical treatment.

To get a clearer idea of your potential award, it’s essential to consult with a specialist personal injury solicitor. An experienced road traffic accident solicitor will offer valuable insights into the strengths of your compensation claim and guide you through the process, increasing your chances of success.

If you’ve been involved in a car accident, you deserve the best possible representation. Contact Lacey Solicitors Belfast using our online form to discuss your case and ensure you receive the compensation you’re entitled to.

 

 

 

 

 

How to Make a Car Accident Claim in Northern Ireland?

A step-by-step guide to bringing a claim for compensation after a car accident for those living in NI.

Car accidents are neither rare nor easy to deal with. Every year in Northern Ireland the Police Service reports around 5,000 collisions, with casualties in 2023 alone reaching 7,985 people[i]. These high numbers reflect an ongoing problem with road safety – a problem which could impact you if you have a road traffic accident.

RTAs leave you in physical and emotional pain. Understanding the steps you can take to make a car accident claim for compensation can help you recover some of the losses you experienced due to your accident. Whether you were injured in a collision in Newry, had a fender bender in Lisburn, or became injured as a pedestrian in Armagh, let Lacey Solicitors firm guide you through the trauma of claiming compensation after your accident.

What is a Car Accident Claim?

If you become injured in a car accident and it was not your fault, then you could claim compensation against the at-fault party. Speeding, lack of care, dangerous driving, and driving while under the influence of alcohol are all common causes of car accidents. No matter the cause, though, car accidents are costly both in terms of health and recovery.

How to Make a Claim for Compensation After a Car Accident?

There are simple steps to making a claim for compensation after your accident. Follow the advice outlined below for the best chance at receiving the maximum possible compensation for your injuries.

At the Time of the Accident

Immediately after the accident has happened, follow these steps:

  •       Make yourself safe
  •       Get medical attention
  •       Speak to the police
  •       Gather witness statements and driver contact details
  •       Take photos

This will give you the best evidence to support your claim.

Following the Accident

After your accident has occurred, make sure that you get in touch with a qualified car accident solicitors near you. Lacey Solicitors are Belfast based and able to guide you safely through the legal quagmire of motor accident compensation claims.

Once you have a solicitor in place, proceed with the following:

  1.     Act quickly – you have three years to make your claim
  2.     Establish who was at fault and gather evidence with your solicitor
  3.     Submit to a medical examination and carefully document your injuries and recovery time
  4.     Your solicitor will bring your claim on your behalf

When your solicitor makes your car accident compensation claim, they will try for three different areas of expense. Your compensation will be based upon the lost income you may have had, the medical expenses you may have incurred, and the pain and suffering the accident caused you.

The Settlement Process

Finally, your solicitor will negotiate a settlement from the insurance company on your behalf. All you must do is trust them to perform. If your claim needs to go to court then your car accident solicitor in NI will help you with the process. Most claims are settled outside of the courtroom.

Trusted Car Accident Solicitors in Northern Ireland

Lacey Solicitors are a trusted law firm operating across Northern Ireland. Contact us today to discuss the details of your car accident so that we may begin working on your compensation claim together.