Share your needs with us, get contacted by law firms.
Free. Takes 2 min.
In Glasgow, UK, the law regarding car accidents is focused around the principles of negligence and personal injury. Car accidents, in the eyes of the law, often involve someone driving negligently or otherwise failing to observe their duty of care to other road users. This negligence can lead to accidents, which then result in personal injuries and property damage. The guilty party is obligated to compensate all affected by the accident, often through their insurance company.
Seeking the services of a lawyer after a car accident in Glasgow can be vital in a number of situations. If the accident results in serious personal injury, significant property damage or if there is a dispute on who's at fault, having legal representation can give you the best chance of receiving full and fair compensation. A lawyer can also be insightful in circumstances where negotiations with insurance companies are necessary, as they can often try to minimise the amount they pay out.
Key aspects of local laws in Glasgow regarding car accidents revolve largely around the Road Traffic Act 1988 and the Civil Liability (Contribution) (Scotland) Act 1978. Under these laws, drivers are obligated to stop and provide their details in the event of an accident. Failure to do so is considered a criminal offence. In addition, the law obligates drivers, where possible, to prevent further accidents or injuries. The legal limit for alcohol in your breath while driving is 22 micrograms of alcohol per 100 millilitres of breath, significantly lower than the limit in other parts of the UK.
Ensure safety first, contact emergency services if need be, collect necessary information from other involved parties and witnesses, report the accident to the police within 24 hours and notify your insurance company as soon as possible.
Seeking legal help from an experienced car accident lawyer can improve your chances of getting fair compensation that fully covers your injuries and damage.
You should contact a lawyer as soon as possible after the accident, especially if you have been severely injured or if there’s a dispute over who is at fault.
Under Scottish law, you may still be able to recover a reduced amount of compensation where the accident was partly your fault, dependent on the principle of 'contributory negligence'.
Evidence might include medical reports, photographs of injuries or damage, eyewitness statements, police reports and any other pieces of information supporting your claim.
The Citizens Advice Scotland and Scottish Legal Aid Board can provide further guidance and support in legal matters relating to car accidents. The local Glasgow law centres and The Law Society of Scotland can also provide referrals to local lawyers specialising in car accidents.
If you need legal assistance after a car accident in Glasgow, your next steps should include obtaining medical care if needed, collecting all relevant evidence related to the incident, contacting a reputable local lawyer, and reporting the accident to your insurance company.
