Navigating the Personal Injuries Assessment Board (PIAB) in Ireland can be a daunting task for those trying to pursue a personal injury claim. For anyone unfamiliar with the process, understanding the intricacies of the system and how it works can be confusing and difficult. As the national body responsible for assessing and managing all personal injury claims in Ireland, PIAB plays a vital role in the resolution of such claims. In this blog post, we'll explore the process of navigating PIAB and provide helpful advice on filing a successful personal injury claim in Ireland.
What is the Personal Injuries Assessment Board?
The Personal Injuries Assessment Board (PIAB) is an independent body in Ireland that was set up to help people who have suffered personal injuries due to the negligence of others. Its primary function is to assess claims and provide compensation to those who are entitled to it. One of the most common types of injury that the PIAB deals with is whiplash, which can occur in car accidents or other situations where the head is suddenly jerked back and forth. This type of injury can be very painful and can result in long-term damage, which is why it is important to seek compensation if you have suffered from it. While you can choose to use solicitors to make your claim, it is not necessary as PIAB provides a free service for claimants. However, if you do choose to use solicitors, they can provide valuable assistance throughout the process and help you to get the best possible outcome for your case. Overall, PIAB plays an important role in helping people to get the compensation they deserve after suffering personal injuries. By providing a fair and transparent assessment process, it helps to ensure that people are able to get the support they need to recover and move on from their injuries.
What types of injuries are covered by the PIAB?
The Personal Injuries Assessment Board (PIAB) in Ireland covers a wide range of injuries sustained in accidents that were not your fault. This includes physical injuries such as fractures, sprains, cuts, bruises, and burns. The most common type of injury that is dealt with by PIAB is whiplash. Whiplash is an injury to the neck caused by a sudden movement of the head, often as a result of a car accident. It can cause pain, stiffness, and limited movement in the neck, shoulders, and back. PIAB is equipped to handle these types of injuries and can help you get the compensation you deserve. It is important to note that not all types of injuries are covered by PIAB. If you have sustained an injury that is not listed on their website, you may need to seek legal advice to determine if you are entitled to compensation.
How do I make a claim with the PIAB?
Making a claim with the Personal Injuries Assessment Board is a straightforward process. You can start by filling out the PIAB application form, which is available on their website, or you can complete the form online. Once you have completed the form, you will need to submit it along with a medical reports.
It is important to note that you must submit your application within two years of the date of your accident or injury. Failure to do so could result in your claim being dismissed.
After submitting your application, PIAB will assess your claim and determine if it falls within their jurisdiction. If it does, they will arrange for a medical examination to be carried out by an independent medical expert. This is to assess the extent of your injuries and the impact they have had on your life.
Once the medical examination is complete, PIAB will use this information to calculate the amount of compensation you are entitled to. If both you and the other party agree to the amount, PIAB will issue an award and your case will be closed.
If you are not happy with PIAB's decision, you can reject the award and proceed to court. It is always recommended to seek legal advice before making a decision to proceed to court.
What if I am not happy with the PIAB's assessment?
If you are not satisfied with PIAB's assessmemnt, you have the option to reject it and take your case to court. Before making a decision, it's a good idea to speak with a personal injury solicitor who can provide you with expert advice on the matter. They will be able to review your case and give you an idea of the potential outcomes of taking your case to court. If you do decide to reject PIAB's assessment and proceed with legal action, it's important to act quickly as there are time limits for making a personal injury claim. In most cases, you have two years from the date of the accident or injury to make a claim. However, there are some exceptions to this rule, so it's important to seek legal advice as soon as possible.