If you have been injured in an accident that was not your fault — whether at work, on the road, or in a public place — you may be entitled to compensation. The personal injury claims process in Ireland has undergone significant reform in recent years, and understanding how it works can help you make informed decisions about your case.
Time Limits: Act Within Two Years
The most important thing to know is that in Ireland, you generally have two years from the date of an accident (or from the date you became aware of your injury) to bring a personal injury claim. This is set out in the Statute of Limitations. If you miss this deadline, you may lose your right to claim entirely, regardless of how strong your case may be. We strongly recommend seeking legal advice as soon as possible after an accident.
The Injuries Resolution Board
Almost all personal injury claims in Ireland must first be submitted to the Injuries Resolution Board (formerly known as the Personal Injuries Assessment Board or PIAB). The IRB is an independent State body that assesses the value of personal injury claims without the need for court proceedings in many cases.
The process works as follows:
- Your solicitor submits an application to the IRB, along with medical evidence and details of your claim
- The IRB notifies the respondent (the person or organisation you are claiming against)
- Both parties can consent to the IRB making an assessment, or either party can opt out
- If both consent, the IRB assesses the claim using the Personal Injuries Guidelines and issues an assessment of damages
- Both parties can accept or reject the assessment
If either party rejects the assessment, or if the respondent does not consent to the IRB process, the IRB issues an authorisation allowing you to proceed to court.
The Personal Injuries Guidelines
Since 2021, the Judicial Council's Personal Injuries Guidelines have replaced the old Book of Quantum as the benchmark for assessing compensation. These guidelines set out recommended ranges for different types of injuries. For example, minor soft tissue injuries (such as whiplash that resolves within a few months) typically attract awards in the range of EUR 500 to EUR 3,000, while more serious injuries receive proportionally higher amounts.
The guidelines have generally reduced award levels compared to the old system, which is something to be aware of when setting expectations.
What Compensation Can You Claim?
A personal injury claim in Ireland can include compensation for:
- General damages: Compensation for pain, suffering, and loss of enjoyment of life
- Special damages: Out-of-pocket expenses such as medical bills, physiotherapy costs, and travel expenses to appointments
- Loss of earnings: Compensation for wages lost as a result of your injury, including future loss of earnings in serious cases
- Care costs: The cost of any care or assistance you required as a result of your injury
How Long Does the Process Take?
The timeline depends on several factors, including the complexity of your case and whether it settles through the IRB or proceeds to court. A straightforward claim assessed by the IRB can be resolved within 9 to 12 months. Cases that proceed to court may take two to four years, particularly if liability (who was at fault) is disputed. Your solicitor will keep you informed of progress at every stage and advise on whether to accept or reject any offers.
No Win, No Fee
Many solicitors in Ireland, including ourselves, offer a "no win, no fee" arrangement for personal injury claims. This means you do not pay legal fees unless your case is successful. It is important to understand the specific terms of any fee arrangement before you proceed, and your solicitor is required under Section 68 of the Solicitors Act to set out their charges clearly in writing.
Get Free Initial Advice
If you have been injured and are unsure of your rights, we are here to help. Our free initial consultation is confidential and without obligation. We will assess the merits of your case, explain the process clearly, and advise you on the best course of action.