Interim compensation
A serious spinal injury will almost certainly mean that the accident victim has to spend a significant amount of time in hospital and undergoing rehabilitation. Some of the most pressing thoughts for the claimant, and their family, are likely to be how they are going to meet and manage their financial commitments.
Loss of income may be immediate following an accident and this can put significant pressure on the claimant and their family at the most difficult of times.
At Thompsons, we strive to ensure that our clients receive the maximum amount of compensation in the quickest possible time, however, the complex nature of serious accident claims means that it may take many months, and sometimes years, to be settled.
Making sure you don't suffer financial hardship
Suffering a spinal injury is likely to mean loss of income just at the time when you may also incur some immediate costs and expenses. In such circumstances, Thompsons will attempt to secure interim compensation so that any pressing costs and commitments can be met.
When will the court allow an interim payment?
If the defender has admitted liability for the incident in which you suffered injury, and there is a suitable need for funds, you will be able to seek an interim payment.
If there is a dispute regarding liability, Thompsons serious injury solicitors can make an application to the court. In situations where it is reasonably likely that the other party, or parties, will be found to be at fault for your injuries during a trial hearing, then the court has power to award interim payments.
The sums sought will need to be less than the likely full settlement for your injuries and you will need to have a suitable reason for requesting an interim compensation payment.
What can a spinal injury interim compensation payment be used for?
An interim compensation payment can be used to help support you following a serious spinal injury and to assist you and your family so that you do not suffer financial hardship.
For instance, if you are unable to work and this loss of income means you cannot pay your bills or mortgage then an interim sum of compensation will mean these obligations can be met.
If you need specialist treatment, rehabilitation therapies, personal care or adaptations to your home then an interim payment of spinal injury compensation can be sought to cover this. The amount sought must be a reasonable proportion of the likely total settlement and your Thompsons solicitor will be able to advise on the amounts involved.
While any interim award will be deducted from your final settlement amount, an interim payment can help you and your family as you recover.
Financial worries can be extremely debilitating after a serious injury; if you are worrying about money you are less likely to be able to concentrate on your recovery. Plus, in order for you to have the best chance of the fullest possible recovery, having access to certain privately-funded treatments may be crucial.
Talk to Thompsons about an interim compensation payment
Ultimately, making a spinal injury compensation claim is about making sure you get the justice you deserve. However, if a serious spinal injury means you and your family suffer financially because someone else's actions led to the accident then you should be compensated financially – this is your legal right and we will fight to uphold that right.
Thompsons spinal injury claim solicitors have handled some of the most complex, high-profile claims in Scotland and have the skill and expertise to support you through your claim.
In many cases we are able to help our clients on a No Win No Fee basis which means they won't have to pay a penny if their claim is unsuccessful. Read our Spinal Injury Compensation FAQs page for more information.
Talk to Thompsons today to see if we can help you make a claim following a spinal injury. Call us on 0800 0891 331.
