Most of the time, the person who has been injured in an accident will be the one making a claim for financial compensation. However, this is not always the case because it is possible to make an accident claim on behalf of someone else.
The most common reason for claiming on somebody else’s behalf is that they are a minor (under 18). For example, if a baby or young child is injured in a car accident that leads to physical disability then there’s a strong chance that they will need medical attention for the rest of their life. And obviously, that person cannot make a claim on their own behalf. And so it falls to the parent or legal guardian of that child to seek compensation. In such cases, the person acting on behalf of the child is known as the ‘litigation friend’.
Another common reason for claiming on somebody else’s behalf is if that person lacks the mental capacity to make a claim, or if that person has suffered an accident that has left them unable to fight on their own behalf. For example, the person in question may have been treated under The Mental Health Act 1983 or their injury may have resulted in decreased mental capability. In this instance, a relative may make a claim on behalf of the person who has been involved in an accident. A law firm like accidentadvicehelpline will be able to help you make a claim in such circumstances, and discussing your case with an experienced claims advisor will empower you with the information you need to get started.
There is one more reason that you may be thinking about making a claim on behalf of someone else, and that reason is that the person has died and is not here to make a claim on their own behalf. Losing a loved one is devastating and making a claim is probably the last thing that you and your family are thinking about right now. However, it is important to remember that losing somebody can have a financial impact on you. Compensation under the circumstances will enable you to crush any worries surrounding your immediate finances such as funeral arrangements and unforeseen coss and it may be just what you and your family need to get your lives back on track.
If you are thinking about making a claim for financial compensation on behalf of someone else, remember that you have three years to do so from their date of limitation, unless they are a minor or have been treated under The Mental Health Act 1983, in which case that 3-year limit can be extended. If you are unsure about eligibility, get in touch with AAH’s 24/7 Helpline on 0800 689 0500 or from your mobile 0333 500 0993.