How to Make a Personal Injury Claim in Ireland: The PIAB Process (2026)

Irish law provides a structured statutory process for personal injury claims. The process for making a personal injury claim in Ireland is more structured than in many other jurisdictions — most claims must first go through the Personal Injuries Assessment Board (PIAB) before court proceedings can be issued. This guide explains the PIAB process, time limits, and what to expect.

What Is PIAB?

The Personal Injuries Assessment Board (PIAB) is an independent statutory body that assesses compensation for personal injury claims in Ireland. Most personal injury claims — with the exception of clinical negligence, intentional torts, and certain other categories — must be submitted to PIAB before a claimant can issue court proceedings. PIAB’s purpose is to reduce legal costs by providing an independent assessment of compensation without the need for litigation in straightforward cases.

Time Limits — Act Quickly

The time limit for bringing a personal injury claim in Ireland is 2 years from the date of the accident (or from the date of knowledge, if later). This is a strict limitation period — failing to bring a claim within 2 years will generally bar you from pursuing it entirely. You must submit your PIAB application before this deadline. Get legal advice as soon as possible after your injury.

The PIAB Process Step by Step

  1. Medical treatment: Seek medical attention and keep records of all treatment, diagnoses, and expenses
  2. Submit PIAB application: File a Form A application to PIAB with medical reports and details of the accident and injuries. There is a PIAB application fee (currently €45 for most claims)
  3. Respondent consent: PIAB notifies the respondent (the party at fault, or their insurer), who has 90 days to consent to PIAB assessment or reject it
  4. Assessment: If the respondent consents, PIAB assesses the compensation payable based on the Book of Quantum (the guidelines for assessing general damages for personal injury)
  5. Accept or reject: Both parties have 28 days to accept or reject the PIAB assessment. If either party rejects it, PIAB issues an Authorisation to bring court proceedings
  6. Court proceedings: If PIAB assessment is rejected, or if the respondent does not consent to PIAB, you can issue court proceedings in the appropriate court

What Compensation Can You Claim?

Personal injury compensation in Ireland covers two main categories:

  • General damages: Compensation for pain and suffering, loss of amenity, and the impact on your quality of life — assessed by reference to the Book of Quantum and Judicial Council guidelines
  • Special damages: Out-of-pocket losses including medical expenses (past and future), loss of earnings, travel costs, care costs, and any other quantifiable financial losses arising from the injury

When Do You Need a Solicitor for a Personal Injury Claim?

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.