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 Much is My Personal Injury Claim Worth?

Thinking of making a claim for compensation for a personal injury in Northern Ireland? How much is your personal injury claim worth and how much compensation should you receive?

 

If you’ve been injured in an accident that wasn’t your fault in Northern Ireland, you may be entitled to compensation. The amount of compensation you can claim depends on the specifics of your case, including the type of injury and the impact it has had on your life. Whether you’ve suffered an injury in a road traffic accident, at work, or elsewhere, it’s important to understand how much compensation you might be entitled to.

 

What is My Personal Injury Claim Worth?

 

The value of a personal injury claim is influenced by multiple factors. While there’s no set amount, experienced solicitors can give you an estimate based on your situation.

 

Factors which impact the worth of a personal injury claim include:

 

  1. A person’s age and pre-accident health
  2. The type and severity of injury sustained
  3. Any long-term prognosis
  4. The medical care provided to date and any future medical expenses
  5. The impact on a person’s life and career
  6. Whether your own actions contributed to any of the injuries sustained

 

More severe injuries, such as catastrophic injury claims like quadriplegia, can attract substantial compensation, with awards from the courts reaching up to £870,000.

 

Personal Injury Compensation Breakdown in Northern Ireland

Here’s a closer look at compensation estimates for various types of injuries in Northern Ireland:

  1. Severe Brain Injury Claims
    Compensation for severe brain injuries typically ranges from £500,000 to £850,000.

  2. Road Traffic Accident Claims

    • Minor injuries like whiplash can yield £5,000 if recovery occurs within six months.
    • For more prolonged recovery (up to 24 months), compensation can be as much as £22,500.
      Road traffic accidents can also result in lost earnings and vehicle repairs, all of which are compensable under special damages.
  3. Industrial Disease Claims

    • Ireland’s rich industrial heritage particularly in relation to its shipbuilding has meant that asbestos claims are particularly prevalent in this jurisdiction in comparison to other European countries
    • Pleural plaques (common in asbestos exposure cases) can lead to compensation of up to £22,000.
    • More severe cases, such as Asbestosis, can attract pay-outs of up to £125,000.

What Are Special Damages?

 

In addition to compensation for pain and suffering, you may also claim for financial losses directly resulting from your injury. These are called special damages and can cover:

  • Damaged property or items
  • Loss of earnings (past and future)
  • Car repairs or hire
  • Medical care
  • Travel expenses
  • Rehabilitation and therapy costs
  • Specialist equipment (e.g., prosthetics, hearing aids)

Special damages are essential for covering out-of-pocket expenses incurred because of the accident. If, for example, you are injured in a car accident, you could claim for vehicle repairs, hire car costs, lost income, and medical treatment expenses.

Compensation for a Minor Back Injury in Northern Ireland

For a minor back injury where full recovery occurs within 6 to 24 months, the typical compensation amount is up to £22,500. If the injury requires longer recovery or causes lasting effects, the compensation amount may increase.

Whiplash Compensation in Northern Ireland

Whiplash injuries to the neck are fairly common injuries in road traffic accidents, especially rear-end collisions. Compensation for whiplash varies:

  • For a full recovery within 6-12 months, compensation can range up to £7,500.

 

Average Personal Injury Compensation in Northern Ireland

Because personal injuries vary greatly, it’s difficult to pinpoint an average pay-out. The compensation you receive will depend on the specifics of your case, including the severity of the injury and its impact on your life.

Get Expert Legal Help for Your Personal Injury Claim

If you’ve been injured and need help navigating your personal injury claim, Lacey Solicitors is here to assist you. Our legal team specialises in personal injury and liability claims, and we’ll work to secure the compensation you deserve. Contact us today using our online form for a consultation on your case and let us guide you through the legal process.