Every claim for compensation is assessed individually and quantified according to the specific facts of the case. There is no set tariff for compensation, except in cases that proceed through the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority.
Compensation is split into two categories:-
Compensation for pain, suffering and loss of amenity – called General Damages. There is no set amount but factors that will be taken into account include:
General Damages
- the degree of pain and suffering
- the length of time the pain and suffering lasts
- whether you will make a full recovery
- whether the symptoms are permanent
- the treatment required
- your age
- whether the injury/illness has exacerbated or accelerated another illness or condition
- how the injury/illness affects the things you do on a daily basis, at work, at home, socially and personally
- to assess how much your injury is worth, the Attwaters Jameson Hill Personal Injury Team will look at the judicial guidelines that have been set and the awards that have been made in previous similar cases.
The second category is called Special Damages it is an award to compensate you for any expense and loss you have suffered as a result of the injury/illness.
It includes expenses or losses that you incur from the date of the accident until the conclusion of the case, also losses or expenses that you will incur in the future, such as:
Special Damages
- Loss of earnings
- Pension loss
- Medical expenses
- Cost of care
- Transport costs
- Aids and equipment
- Accommodation costs
Compensation payments are not subject to tax. You will, however, have to pay tax on any interest earned if the compensation is invested.