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Personal Injury & Civil Litigation Solicitors
Civil Disputes and Injury Claims
PBW Law advises individuals, families and businesses across Scotland on civil disputes and personal injury claims. Since 2015, our team has acted in matters ranging from road traffic accidents and workplace injuries to complex commercial and contractual disputes — including representing families raising negligence claims against a care home operator, and acting for a Greenock manufacturer in a successful contract dispute.
Whether you have been injured through someone else's fault or are involved in a dispute that needs resolving, we give clear advice on your prospects, your options and the likely costs from the outset.
How a Personal Injury Claim Works
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Time limits — most personal injury claims must be raised in court within three years of the accident, or of when you became aware of the injury. Different rules can apply to children and in some other cases, so take advice early.
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Early investigation — we gather the evidence, including accident reports, witness statements, photographs and medical records.
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Pre-action stage — for many claims, a pre-action protocol requires the parties to exchange information and try to settle before court action is raised.
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Medical evidence — independent medical reports establish the extent of your injuries and your likely recovery.
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Court action — if the claim cannot be settled, it can be raised in court, often in the All-Scotland Sheriff Personal Injury Court in Edinburgh, or in the Court of Session for higher-value claims.
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Settlement or judgment — most claims settle before a final hearing. Compensation can cover pain and suffering, lost earnings, care and other financial losses.
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Fatal Accident Inquiries — where a death is being investigated, we represent bereaved families at FAIs.
How PBW Law Helps
Our solicitors manage claims directly, progressing cases efficiently from initial instruction through to settlement or court. We act in road traffic and workplace accident claims, clinical and care home negligence, contractual and commercial disputes, and property and general civil litigation. Where a case involves a Fatal Accident Inquiry or complex litigation, our lawyers draw on experience gained in some of the most significant inquiries in Scotland.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do I have to make a personal injury claim in Scotland?
Generally three years from the date of the accident, or from the date you became aware of the injury and its cause. For children, the three years usually runs from their 16th birthday. The court has a limited discretion to allow late claims, but you should not rely on it.
Will I have to pay the other side's legal costs if I lose?
In most personal injury cases, no. Since 30 June 2021, qualified one-way costs shifting has generally protected injured pursuers from paying the defender's expenses if the claim fails, provided the claim is conducted properly. There are some exceptions, which we explain at the outset.
Can I claim on a no win, no fee basis?
Often, yes. We can discuss funding options including success fee agreements, where our fee is a percentage of the compensation recovered, subject to limits set by law. We will explain all the options, and any costs you may face, before you commit.
What if a loved one has died?
Close relatives may be able to claim compensation, and the death may also be investigated through a Fatal Accident Inquiry. We represent bereaved families in both.
If you've been affected by an accident, injury or civil dispute, call us on 0141 439 1990. Out of hours, call 07802 884830.