Can I claim for tinnitus after a car accident in Ireland?

Yes. If your tinnitus resulted from another driver's negligence in Ireland, you can claim compensation. Claims are submitted to the Injuries Resolution Board (IRB) first. Source: injuries.ie (2025).

How long do I have to claim for tinnitus after a car accident?

Two years from the date of the accident, or from the date of knowledge if tinnitus appeared later. Source: Statute of Limitations (Amendment) Act 1991, s.2 (irishstatutebook.ie).

How much compensation for tinnitus in Ireland?

The Judicial Council Personal Injuries Guidelines (2021) provide ranges: severe tinnitus with partial hearing loss €35,000 to €55,000; moderate €18,000 to €35,000; mild €500 to €18,000. Source: judicialcouncil.ie.

Can I claim if tinnitus started weeks after the accident?

Yes. Under Section 2 of the Statute of Limitations (Amendment) Act 1991, the limitation period starts from the date of knowledge, not necessarily the accident date. Source: irishstatutebook.ie.

What evidence do I need for a tinnitus claim?

An ENT consultant report, pure tone audiogram, Tinnitus Handicap Inventory score, GP records documenting onset, and accident evidence. Source: hse.ie tinnitus guidance.

Does a tinnitus claim go through the IRB?

Yes. Most personal injury claims in Ireland, including tinnitus, must be submitted to the Injuries Resolution Board before court proceedings. Source: injuries.ie (2025).

Can I claim for tinnitus and whiplash from the same accident?

Yes. Irish courts value the dominant injury first, then add a proportional uplift for secondary injuries like tinnitus. Source: Personal Injuries Guidelines 2021.

What if I had mild tinnitus before the accident?

You can claim for the worsening. Irish law applies the eggshell skull principle: the defendant takes you as they find you. Source: Civil Liability Act 1961.

Can tinnitus be cured?

There is no universal cure. According to the HSE, treatment options include hearing aids with masking, CBT, tinnitus retraining therapy, and neuromodulation devices like the Irish-developed Lenire device. Prognosis affects compensation under the Personal Injuries Guidelines. Source: hse.ie, judicialcouncil.ie.

Do I need a solicitor for a tinnitus claim in Ireland?

Not legally required, but tinnitus claims involve subjective evidence and insurer disputes that are difficult to manage alone. Source: citizensinformation.ie.

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Author: Gary Matthews, Principal Solicitor, Law Society of Ireland PC No. S8178 · 3rd Floor, Ormond Building, 31-36 Ormond Quay Upper, Dublin D07 · 01 903 6408 · Checked March 2026

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