Accidents Involving Minors

Accidents Involving Children - Solicitors, Dublin 15

Accidents Involving Minors

A Minor is anyone under the age of 18. If a child has been injured in an accident we can advise their parent or guardian in relation to the legal redress available.

Pursuing an Accident Case* for a Minor

After a child has been injured – be it due to a traffic accident, accident at school / playground or negligence elsewhere – it is of vital importance that the child is seen by a medical professional as soon as possible.

Medical records will record the incident along with detailing the extent of the incurred injuries.

In the case of an especially young child, it is important that the parent or guardian assist the child in fully explaining the list of injuries, symptoms and stress and anxiety caused by the accident.

If you do proceed with a personal injury* case on behalf of a minor this case will need to be taken by a next friend on the minors behalf who would most often by a parent. Whether the minors personal injury* case be assessed by the Injuries Board, settled with an Insurance Company or runs to a full hearing in Court the following will be considered:

General Damages: This relates to damages that may be awarded for the minors injury for pain and suffering and/or physical and emotional injuries following an accident. Both the minors pain and suffering to date and any pain and suffering into the future will be considered when assessing the claim.

Special Damages: This is the term used for any out of pocket expenses that have been incurred as a result of the minors accident. This would usually include the following – any loss of earnings arising, medical bills, medication expenses, physiotherapy.