Know Your Rights: Personal Injury Claims in Scotland

If you’ve been injured in an accident in Scotland that wasn’t your fault, you have important legal rights. Knowing what you’re entitled to — and how to act on those rights — can make a real difference to your recovery, finances, and peace of mind.

At Make a Claims, we believe in making sure people understand their rights after an accident. Here’s a helpful guide to what you need to know.

What Are Your Legal Rights After an Accident in Scotland?

If you’ve suffered an injury because of someone else’s negligence — whether at work, on the road, or in a public place — you have the right to:

Claim Compensation

You’re legally entitled to seek financial compensation for:

• Pain, suffering, and emotional distress (Solatium)

• Medical expenses

• Loss of earnings

• Future care and rehabilitation costs

• Travel and out-of-pocket expenses

The aim is to help you get back to where you would have been if the accident hadn’t happened.

Access Legal Advice

You have the right to free, impartial legal advice about your situation. A personal injury solicitor can explain:

• Whether you have a valid claim

• How much your claim might be worth

• What the claims process involves

• Your funding options, such as No Win No Fee agreements

A Fair and Transparent Claims Process

Scottish law protects your right to a fair claims process. You’re entitled to:

• Clear updates about your case

• Transparent legal costs and agreements

• A chance to settle your case outside of court

• The option to pursue your claim through the Scottish courts if necessary

Protection from Costs

In most personal injury claims in Scotland, you won’t be asked to pay legal fees upfront. Thanks to No Win No Fee agreements and insurance protection, you typically only pay legal costs if your claim succeeds — reducing financial risk for you.

Your Right to Make a Claim Within a Time Limit

Under Scottish law, there’s a strict three-year time limit (called the limitation period) for making a personal injury claim. This usually starts:

• From the date of the accident

• Or the date you became aware that your injury was caused by someone else’s negligence

After this period, you may lose your right to claim, so it’s important to act promptly.

What Types of Accidents Can You Claim For?

Your rights apply to a wide range of accidents, including:

• Workplace accidents

• Road traffic accidents

• Slips, trips, and falls in public places

• Medical negligence

• Accidents in rental properties or private premises

If the injury was caused by another person or organisation’s negligence, you have the legal right to seek compensation.

Why It’s Important to Know Your Rights

Many people in Scotland miss out on compensation because:

• They don’t realise they’re entitled to claim

• They’re worried about legal costs

• They’re unsure how the process works

Knowing your rights empowers you to take control, recover losses, and access the support you need to move forward.

How Make a Claims Can Help

At Make a Claims, we’re committed to making your rights clear, accessible, and easy to act on. We offer:

• Free, no-obligation consultations

• Experienced personal injury solicitors in Scotland

• No Win No Fee options

• Full support through every stage of the claims process

We’ll listen, explain your rights, and guide you towards the best outcome — without pressure or complicated jargon.

Speak to Us Today

If you’ve been injured in Scotland and want to understand your rights, get in touch with Make a Claims today. Our friendly, professional team is ready to help you take the first step towards justice and fair compensation.