Most people realise that they can claim personal injury compensation if they are hurt in a car crash or may slip and fall at a business property. Yet they may not realise that compensation is available in some circumstances if they are the victim of a crime. If you find yourself in this position, what should you know, and what action should you take?
Understanding The Effects
If you are the victim of a crime, this will undoubtedly be distressing, but it can have a real impact in some circumstances. In the case of a violent crime or even a non-violent episode like fraud, the victim can often suffer physical or psychological damage, with the repercussions lasting a prolonged time.
Criminal Compensation
You may be able to claim under a special compensation scheme set up by the government. You need to make sure that the incident was reported to the police at the minimum, but you do not need to prove that an offender was guilty. In fact, it may not even be necessary for the police to identify or charge a perpetrator, depending on other evidence available.
What You Need To Do
If you want to move a case like this forward, ensure that you cooperate with the police at all times to give them whatever assistance they may need to investigate the matter. Just bear in mind that if you identify someone who is charged and subsequently acquitted, you may not be able to claim compensation.
Assessing Your Claim
The government will appoint an independent assessor to consider your case and determine how much compensation should be awarded. You may be able to claim for direct expenses associated with medical or psychological treatment, certain travel expenditures and other costs. If you cannot work due to injuries sustained, you can look at past and future income and can also claim for pain and suffering. In this case, you may not be able to enjoy life as much as you did before and can claim compensation accordingly.
Moving Ahead
It's best to move forward as promptly as possible with a claim. You may also be able to ask for interim payments to deal with pressing costs while your application is under consideration.
Getting Professional Help
As you're already feeling the effects of this matter, it makes sense to get some support on your side as you lodge a claim. Talk with a personal injury solicitor as soon as possible so they can help you to put forward your case.