Introduction
The Injuries Resolution Board is an independent state body that handles most personal injury claims in Ireland before they reach court. You must submit your claim to PIAB first if you get hurt in Dublin. This step saves time and money for everyone involved.
Getting injured changes your life in an instant. Medical bills pile up. You miss work. Pain affects your daily routine. PIAB helps you get fair compensation without lengthy court battles. The process seems confusing at first, but understanding it makes everything easier.
This guide explains five essential facts about PIAB. You will learn how to file your claim correctly. You will understand what happens next. You will know your options if things don’t go as planned.
What Is the Injuries Resolution Board and Why It Matters in Dublin
Purpose and Role of the PIAB in Ireland
PIAB is a self-funded public organization that assesses personal injury claims across Ireland. The Board reviews your case and determines fair compensation. They handle non-medical negligence cases like car accidents, workplace injuries, and public place incidents. PIAB does not decide who caused your accident. They only calculate what your injuries are worth based on evidence.
In 2024, PIAB received 20,837 applications and awarded €168 million total. Motor claims made up 68% of all awards. Public liability cases accounted for 17%. Employer liability claims represented 13% of total awards.
How It Reduces Legal Costs and Court Delays
PIAB reduces litigation and costs by settling claims faster than courts. The Board completes most assessments within nine months. This speed helps injured people get money sooner. Court cases often take years to finish. PIAB keeps the process simple and affordable for Dublin residents.
How to Lodge a PIAB Claim in Ireland
Mandatory Nature of Submitting a Personal Injury Claim
You must submit your claim to PIAB before going to court. This requires claim submission via Form A. The law makes this step mandatory for most injury cases. Skipping PIAB means your court case gets delayed or dismissed.
Application Methods: Online vs Postal Submission
You can apply online through the PIAB website. You can also mail your Form A to their office. Online applications process faster. Both methods work equally well for Dublin claimants.
Essential Documents: Application Form and Medical Report
Your application needs two key items. First, complete Form A with accident details. Second, include a medical report from your doctor. This report proves your injuries and treatment. Add receipts for expenses you paid because of the accident.
Deadlines for Filing a PIAB Application in Dublin
Understanding the Two-Year Statute of Limitations
You have two years from your accident date to file. Missing this deadline means losing your right to compensation. The clock starts ticking immediately after your injury occurs.
Special Rules for Children and Delayed Injuries
Children have until their 20th birthday to file claims. Some injuries appear months after accidents happen. The two-year limit starts when you discover the injury in these cases.
What Happens After You Apply — Notifying the Respondent
How PIAB Serves Notice to the Responsible Party
PIAB contacts the person or company you blame for your injury. They send official notice about your claim. This notification starts the formal assessment process.
Respondent’s 90-Day Response Period
Respondent consent needed for assessment within 90 days. They must agree to let PIAB review your claim. If they refuse, PIAB issues an authorization for court proceedings.
How PIAB Assesses Personal Injury Claims
Overview of PIAB’s Claim Assessment Role
PIAB reviews all evidence you submit. They calculate fair compensation recommendations made for your suffering. The Board uses Judicial Council guidelines referenced to determine amounts.
Key Factors Considered in the Valuation Process
Assessment based on medical evidence forms the foundation. PIAB considers your pain and suffering levels. They review lost wages and future earning capacity. They examine all expenses related to your injury. The highest award in 2024 reached €592,000.
Expected Timeline: Nine Months to Complete Assessment
The assessment timeframe averages nine months after consent. PIAB works efficiently to finish reviews quickly. Some complex cases take longer to evaluate properly.
What If You Accept or Reject the PIAB Award
Process When Both Parties Accept the Assessment
Both sides can accept the PIAB award amount. Acceptance ends the claim immediately. You receive your compensation without going to court.
What Happens If One Party Rejects the Award
Either party has the option to accept or reject award decisions. Rejection allows the case to move to court. PIAB issues court proceedings authorization if rejected by anyone involved.
Legal Costs and Impact on Final Compensation
PIAB awards do not cover legal fees usually. Solicitor costs come from your final compensation amount. This reduces what you actually receive in hand.
Mediation Through PIAB: An Alternative to Court
When PIAB Proposes Mediation
Mediation services introduced help settle disputed claims. PIAB suggests mediation when parties disagree on amounts. A neutral mediator helps both sides reach agreement.
Why Mediation Can Be a Beneficial Resolution Option
Mediation saves time compared to court battles. It costs less than full litigation. Both parties control the outcome together. Dublin claimants often prefer this faster resolution method.
Why PIAB Might Refuse or Return a Claim
Common Mistakes: Late Submissions and Missing Paperwork
PIAB rejects applications filed after two years. Missing medical reports cause delays or refusals. Incomplete forms get returned for correction. Double-check everything before submitting your claim.
Claims That Fall Outside PIAB’s Scope
Medical negligence cases cannot go through PIAB. Defamation claims fall outside their authority. Expanded remit including psychological claims now covers mental health injuries. Check if your case qualifies before applying.
Legal Support During the PIAB Process in Ireland
Why Consulting a Personal Injury Solicitor Helps
Personal injury solicitors understand PIAB procedures completely. They prepare stronger applications with proper documentation. They negotiate better outcomes for Dublin clients. Expert legal advice prevents costly mistakes.
How Solicitors Support Applications and Handle Appeals
Solicitors gather all necessary medical evidence quickly. They complete forms accurately the first time. They represent you if mediation becomes necessary. They take cases to court when PIAB awards get rejected.
Conclusion
The Injuries Resolution Board streamlines personal injury claims across Ireland. Understanding these five key facts helps Dublin residents navigate the process confidently. PIAB offers faster, cheaper resolution than traditional court proceedings.
We are expert personal injury attorneys serving Dublin communities. Our team guides clients through every PIAB stage successfully. We maximize compensation while minimizing stress and confusion.
Contact Gary Matthews Solicitors – Injury Law today for professional support. We handle your PIAB application from start to finish. Let us fight for the compensation you deserve after your injury.
