If you have suffered an injury because of someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation. But what exactly can you claim for? In personal injury cases, compensation is usually split into two categories:

  • ‘General Damages’ for your injuries, both physical and psychological.

  • ‘Special Damages’ for financial losses and expenses you have or will incur.

This blog focuses on special damages: what they are, examples and how to claim them.

What are Special Damages?

Special damages cover financial losses you have incurred because of your accident or that you will incur in the future. The aim is to put you back in the financial position you would have been in had the accident not occurred. Unlike general damages, which are subjective, special damages are quantifiable and require evidence such as receipts, invoices, and payslips.

Examples of Special Damages You Can Claim

1. Loss of Earnings:

  • Wages lost if you have been off work as a result of the accident

  • Missed bonuses, overtime, or commission

  • Future loss of earnings if you can’t return to your previous role or may need time off work again in the future (such as for surgery)

2. Medical and Rehabilitation Costs:

  • Private rehabilitation treatment such as physiotherapy

  • Prescription charges and over-the-counter medication

  • Private consultations or specialist treatments not covered by the NHS

3. Travel Expenses:

  • Fuel costs for hospital, GP or treatment visits

  • Public transport fares or taxi charges

  • Parking fees at medical facilities

4. Property Damage:

  • Repair or replacement of damaged personal items (e.g. clothing, phone, vehicle).

5. Care and Assistance:

  • Paid carers or nursing support

  • Help from family or friends (even unpaid care and assistance can be valued and claimed for)

6. Home Adaptations and Equipment:

  • Installing ramps, stairlifts, or bathroom modifications

  • Purchasing mobility aids or specialist equipment

7. Miscellaneous Costs

  • Childcare expenses if you’re unable to care for your children

  • Domestic help for cleaning, cooking or gardening

As well as things you have had to pay out for the in past, you can also claim for reasonable future losses, such as if your injury will require ongoing treatment, care, or cause long-term income loss.

How to Claim Special Damages?

1. Keep Detailed Records

  • Save receipts, invoices, and bank statements

  • Maintain a diary of appointments and related costs

2. Gather Evidence

  • Payslips and employer letters for lost earnings

  • Medical reports for treatment costs

  • Quotes for home adaptations or equipment

3. Make Sure You Choose a Specialist Solicitor

  • A solicitor ensures all eligible expenses are included, evidence is properly presented and future losses are calculated accurately.

4. Interim Payments

In lengthy cases, your solicitor may be able to request an interim payment to cover urgent costs before the claim concludes.

Why Are Special Damages Important?

They often make up a significant portion of your compensation. Without claiming them, you could be left out-of-pocket for expenses that weren’t your fault.

If you, a friend, or a family member has been involved in an accident and want to bring a claim, the team at Farleys can help. Contact our expert personal injury solicitors today for a free, no-obligation assessment of your claim on 01254606008, get in touch by email, or use the online chat below.