IrelandWhat evidence do I need for a personal injury claim?
For a personal injury claim in Ireland, you need medical evidence, proof of fault (e.g., witness statements or photos), and documentation of financial losses like lost wages or medical bills.
What the Law Says
The Personal Injuries Assessment Board Act 2003 sets out the mandatory process and evidence requirements for most personal injury claims in Ireland.
Before going to court, almost all personal injury claims in Ireland must first be assessed by the Personal Injuries Assessment Board (PIAB), unless an exemption applies. The law requires applicants to submit specific evidence with their application — especially a medical report confirming the nature and extent of the injury.
PIAB uses this evidence to assess whether the injury is genuine, how serious it is, and what compensation is fair. Without sufficient evidence — particularly a medical report — PIAB cannot proceed with the assessment.
The Act also requires that your application to PIAB be made within two years of the date of the accident (or when you became aware of the injury), and that you notify the respondent (e.g., the person or business you’re claiming against) before applying.
Statutory TextAn application to the Board shall be made in such form and manner as may be prescribed and shall be accompanied by such information and documents as may be prescribed.
— Personal Injuries Assessment Board Act 2003, s. 11 — Application to the Board
What to Do
Get a detailed medical report from a qualified healthcare professional — this is mandatory for your PIAB application.
Gather evidence of how the injury happened: photos of the scene, witness contact details, incident reports (e.g., from a shop or employer).
Keep records of all financial losses: receipts for medical expenses, payslips showing lost income, travel costs for treatment.
Submit your completed PIAB Form A and all supporting documents within 12 months of instructing a solicitor (or as soon as possible after the accident).
If PIAB issues an assessment you accept, you’ll receive compensation; if you reject it or PIAB declines jurisdiction, you may then issue court proceedings — but only within the 2-year limitation period.
Sources
Not legal advice. This article is general information based on publicly available sources, written for educational purposes. Laws change and individual situations vary. Consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction before acting on anything you read here. Last reviewed: 2026-06-08.