Dear Claudine,

I was walking home from work approximately five months ago when I was struck by a moving vehicle when I was on a pedestrian crossing. I was taken by ambulance to Hospital where I received extensive treatment for my injuries. I have still not made a full recovery and attend a physiotherapist on a regular basis. The Gardai have now confirmed to me that the driver of the vehicle was uninsured. They have recommended that I obtain legal advice. I would appreciate if you could assist me.

Thank you,

Patrick

Dear Patrick,

Thank you very much for your letter. I was very sorry to read the circumstances surrounding this accident, and I sincerely hope that in time and with the appropriate medical treatment, you will go on to make a full recovery. In your particular case, where the driver of the motor vehicle in question is uninsured, there is a scheme for compensation by virtue of the Motor Insurers Bureau of Ireland (MIBI). The MIBI was set up in 1995 for the purposes of compensating victims of Road Traffic Accidents caused by uninsured and unidentified drivers. In light of the fact that you were struck by a vehicle when you were on a pedestrian crossing, you are likely to have a very strong claim for personal injury compensation. You should consult a Solicitor with the expertise in personal injuries actions. You should immediately notify the MIBI of your claim, by registered post, as there are very strict time limits that you must comply with. You should also obtain details regarding the investigating Garda from the relevant Garda Station. You should ensure that the MIBI Claim Notification Form is completed in full and possibly obtain legal advice in this regard. You will also have to make an Application to the Injuries Board and a Medical Report detailing your injuries will need to be submitted with your Application. Generally claims against the MIBI can be difficult and it would be advisable to obtain legal advice. I hope that the above is helpful to you and if I can be of any further assistance to you, then please do not hesitate to contact me directly.

With Best Wishes for Now.

Claudine