Personal injury claims by minors

Recent research from Ireland has shown that children aged 3 – 7 years are over three times more likely to have an accident that results in a personal injury claim than infants aged 3 or less. The study, carried out by InjuriesBoard.ie, also found that childhood accidents were more than twice as likely to occur in April and August, than in December, making these the most dangerous and safest months respectively.

In 2010, 615 minors were awarded compensation totaling €8.5million, or an average of €13,839.90. Awards ranged in value from €500 to over €170,000. Motor related accidents (at 79%) accounted for almost four times as many injuries as public liability (21%). Girls accounted for 52% of awards while 48% of awards were made to boys.

Professor Alf Nicholson, Consultant Paediatrician, Temple Street Hospital said:

“Injuries are a serious public health problem in Europe and more children over the age of one die of injuries than all other diseases combined. For every child that dies from an injury, 160 are admitted to hospital and over 2,000 are seen in the emergency department – deaths are just the tip of the iceberg. Clearly no one wishes to be involved in an accident or to incur an injury. Simple life saving measures include increased care and attention and always using appropriate seating restraints and wearing of helmets by cyclists.”