Serious & Catastrophic Injury Claims in Scotland
Life-changing injuries require specialist expertise — comprehensive claims covering care, earnings, adaptations and quality of life
Who can claim?
You may be able to claim if you suffered a life-changing injury due to someone else's negligence — whether in a road accident, at work, or in any other circumstances.
Catastrophic and serious injuries require specialist legal expertise. The consequences of a life-changing injury extend far beyond immediate pain and suffering — they may include long-term care needs, loss of earnings, adaptations to your home, and the profound impact on your quality of life.
What Is a Catastrophic Injury?
Catastrophic injuries are those that have a permanent, life-altering effect, including:
- Spinal cord injuries resulting in paralysis
- Severe traumatic brain injuries
- Amputations and limb loss
- Serious burns covering large areas of the body
- Multiple organ damage
- Permanent loss of sight or hearing
What Compensation Could Cover
A serious injury claim may seek to recover:
- General damages for pain, suffering and loss of amenity
- Past and future loss of earnings (including career impact)
- Cost of care — both paid professional care and gratuitous care provided by family
- Adaptations to home or vehicle to accommodate disability
- Medical expenses not covered by the NHS
- Psychological support costs
Courts Handling Serious Injury Claims
The Court of Session in Edinburgh typically handles the most serious and high-value personal injury claims in Scotland. The All-Scotland Personal Injury Court based in Edinburgh also has jurisdiction over personal injury claims of all values.
Early Advice Is Critical
For serious injuries, it is important to seek legal advice as early as possible. Specialist solicitors can ensure evidence is preserved and that your claim fully accounts for your long-term needs.
What compensation could cover
- ✓ Pain, suffering and loss of amenity
- ✓ Past and future loss of earnings
- ✓ Medical treatment and rehabilitation
- ✓ Future care costs (potentially for life)
- ✓ Home adaptations and specialist equipment
- ✓ Transport adaptations
- ✓ Case management
Frequently asked questions
What makes an injury "catastrophic"?
Which court handles serious injury claims?
Can I get interim payments before my claim settles?
Related
Other claim types
Useful guides
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