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

Irish law provides a structured statutory process for personal injury claims. However, before you can issue court proceedings, most personal injury claims in Ireland must first go through the Personal Injuries Assessment Board (PIAB). This guide explains how the PIAB process works, what you can claim, and the strict time limits you must meet.

What Is PIAB?

The Personal Injuries Assessment Board (PIAB) is a statutory body that assesses personal injury claims in Ireland without the need for court proceedings. It was established to reduce the cost and delay associated with personal injury litigation. PIAB assesses the value of your injury compensation (general and special damages) and makes an award — which you can accept or reject.

What Types of Claims Go Through PIAB?

Most personal injury claims arising from the following must be submitted to PIAB first:

  • Road traffic accidents (motor claims)
  • Workplace accidents (employer liability)
  • Public liability accidents (slips, trips, and falls in public or commercial premises)

Medical negligence claims and some other categories do not require PIAB authorisation before court proceedings.

Time Limits — Critical

You must bring your personal injury claim within two years of the date of the accident (or the date you became aware of your injury). This is a strict limitation period — miss it and you lose your right to claim entirely. Given the time PIAB takes, it is important to act promptly.

Step-by-Step: The PIAB Process

  1. Submit your application: Complete the PIAB application form (Form A) online or by post, with supporting medical evidence and the application fee
  2. Respondent consent: PIAB notifies the respondent (the other party or their insurer), who has 90 days to consent to assessment. If they don’t consent, PIAB issues an authorisation to issue court proceedings
  3. Medical assessment: PIAB arranges an independent medical examination to assess your injuries
  4. Award made: PIAB issues a written assessment of your compensation based on the Book of Quantum and medical evidence
  5. Accept or reject: Both parties have 28 days to accept or reject the award. If both accept, it becomes a legally binding order. If either rejects, PIAB issues an authorisation and you can issue court proceedings

What Can You Claim?

  • General damages: Pain and suffering, loss of amenity, psychological impact
  • Special damages: Medical expenses, loss of earnings, care costs, travel expenses, future losses

Should You Get Legal Advice Before Going to PIAB?

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

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