Road accidents can be devastating, leaving victims with injuries, financial pressures, and emotional distress. A road accident claim is a legal process that allows injured people to seek compensation from the party responsible. These claims cover incidents involving cars, cyclists, motorbikes, buses, and pedestrians.
Collisions are not uncommon in Openshaw, where roads like Ashton Old Road and Fairfield Road experience heavy traffic every day. Busy junctions, heavy commuter routes, and local public transport links increase the risk of accidents. Marley Solicitors has supported many clients in Manchester, including those living in Openshaw, who have suffered injuries in road accidents and needed expert legal advice.
Can I make a road accident claim in Openshaw?
Yes. You may be able to file a claim if you sustained injuries in a road traffic accident that wasn’t your fault. Compensation is available for:
- Drivers involved in crashes caused by careless motorists
- Passengers injured during collisions
- Cyclists or motorcyclists struck by vehicles on busy Openshaw roads
- Pedestrians knocked down at crossings or junctions
- Bus or taxi passengers injured in sudden impacts
Road accidents can cause anything from whiplash and cuts to fractures, head injuries, and long-term disabilities. Compensation helps cover medical costs, loss of income, and the impact on your daily life.
What is whiplash, and can I claim it for Openshaw?
Whiplash is a neck and shoulder injury caused by a sudden, forceful movement of the head, typically during rear-end collisions. Symptoms can include pain, stiffness, reduced movement, and headaches.
If you develop whiplash after an accident in Openshaw, you may be able to make a claim. Government reforms now set fixed compensation amounts for minor whiplash, but Marley Solicitors can advise on how these rules apply to your situation. If your symptoms are severe or long-lasting, your settlement may be higher.
What should I do after a road accident?
The actions you take immediately after a collision are important for your health and for any future claim. You should:
- Seek medical attention – visit your GP or attend North Manchester General Hospital if needed. Medical records are vital evidence.
- Report the accident – to the police if required, especially if injuries are serious or the other driver is uninsured.
- Exchange details – with other drivers, including insurance information.
- Gather evidence – photographs of the vehicles, the road layout, and your injuries can strengthen your case.
- Take witness contacts – independent statements can support your version of events.
- Contact a solicitor – early legal advice helps protect your rights and ensures deadlines are met.
Common causes of road accidents in Openshaw
Road accidents happen for many reasons, but some common factors in Openshaw include:
- Distracted driving – using mobile phones or not paying attention
- Speeding – especially on main routes like Ashton Old Road
- Failure to give way – at junctions and roundabouts
- Poor road conditions – potholes or lack of signage increasing risks
- Weather hazards – rain or ice making roads slippery
- Dangerous overtaking – putting cyclists, motorcyclists, and other drivers at risk
If another person’s negligence was a factor, you may have a strong case for compensation.
What types of injuries are common in road accident claims?
People injured in Openshaw road accidents often suffer from:
- Whiplash and other soft tissue injuries
- Broken bones and fractures
- Cuts, bruises, and scarring
- Head injuries and concussion
- Spinal injuries
- Psychological effects such as anxiety or post-traumatic stress
Even seemingly minor injuries can have long-term effects, which is why legal advice is important before accepting any early settlement offers from insurers.
How much compensation could I receive for a road accident?
Compensation is calculated based on the seriousness of your injuries and the financial impact on your life. It usually covers two categories:
- General damages – for pain, suffering, and reduced quality of life
- Special damages – for lost wages, medical bills, rehabilitation, travel, and any other expenses linked to the accident
For example, if a driver in Openshaw suffers whiplash that requires weeks off work, they may claim both the discomfort of the injury and the income lost during recovery. Marley Solicitors will calculate your claim carefully to make sure no aspect is overlooked.
How long do I have to make a claim?
Most road accident claims must be started within three years of the accident. If the injured person is under 18, the time limit begins on their 18th birthday. Claims involving uninsured drivers may go through the Motor Insurers’ Bureau, which compensates victims of untraced or uninsured motorists.
Seeking advice quickly ensures evidence is fresh and your case can be built on solid foundations.
Why choose Marley Solicitors in Openshaw?
Marley Solicitors has built a strong reputation in Manchester for handling road accident claims. We provide:
- Experience with all types of road accident claims, from minor injuries to complex cases
- Local knowledge of Openshaw roads and accident hotspots
- Clear, straightforward legal advice without unnecessary jargon
- Support on a no win no fee basis where appropriate
- A dedicated case manager to guide you through every stage
Our goal is to reduce the stress of the claims process while working hard to secure the best possible outcome for you.
Frequently asked questions
Can I claim compensation if I was partly at fault for a road accident?
Yes. Even if you were partly responsible, you may still be entitled to compensation. You can still claim, but the amount may be reduced based on your responsibility level.
Do I need to attend court for a road accident claim?
Most claims are settled through negotiation with insurers. Only a small percentage go to court, and if that happens, Marley Solicitors will represent you throughout.
Taking the next step
Road accidents are often traumatic, but the legal process does not need to be. With professional assistance, you can pursue your entitlement to compensation and concentrate on your recovery. Marley Solicitors has supported many clients in Openshaw and across Manchester, helping them move forward after serious collisions.
Contact Marley Solicitors today
If you have been involved in a road accident in Openshaw, you do not need to handle the aftermath alone. Marley Solicitors offers free, no-obligation consultations to discuss your case and explain your options. With our expertise, local knowledge, and commitment to achieving fair settlements, you can be confident your claim is in safe hands.
Contact Marley Solicitors today to begin your road accident claim in Openshaw and take the first step towards recovery.
