Lorry & HGV Accident Claims

Q: How long do I have to make a claim?

In most cases, you have two years from the date of the accident to initiate legal proceedings. However, it’s always best to seek advice as early as possible.

If you’ve been injured in a road accident involving a lorry or heavy goods vehicle, the consequences can be serious—and the aftermath confusing. These aren’t small bumps or near-misses. The size and weight of HGVs often leave lasting damage, both physically and emotionally. At John O’Leary Solicitors LLP, we’re here to help you make sense of what happened and support you through whatever comes next.

We’ve been working with individuals and families across Tallaght and Dublin for over 20 years. We know the roads, the pressure HGV drivers face, and the risks these vehicles can pose on narrow estates, motorways, and roundabouts alike. Whether the collision happened at a junction, on a delivery route, or while walking or cycling near a haulage truck—we understand the reality on the ground, and we know how to handle it.

You won’t be handed off or made to chase answers. You’ll speak directly with a solicitor who’ll take the time to listen and act. We explain things clearly, keep things moving, and take the stress off your shoulders from day one.

If you’re unsure about who was at fault or whether you have a case, that’s exactly what we’re here for. Get in touch with John O’Leary Solicitors LLP today. You’ll get honest advice, straight answers, and a local team who’ll treat your case with the seriousness and care it deserves.

Why Lorry and HGV Accidents Are So Serious

Accidents involving lorries or heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) are often far more dangerous than other road collisions. The scale and force of these vehicles mean that when something goes wrong, the damage can be devastating—especially for the people in smaller cars, on foot, or on bikes.

The Power Behind the Impact

Lorries and HGVs can weigh anywhere from 7.5 to over 40 tonnes. At speed, that much weight becomes a massive force—one that ordinary cars, cyclists, and pedestrians simply can’t withstand. That’s why crashes involving HGVs so often result in broken bones, serious head injuries, or worse.

Even low-speed incidents can have severe consequences. A lorry reversing into a pedestrian, clipping a cyclist while turning, or jackknifing at a roundabout can cause lasting injury or multiple-vehicle pile-ups.

Where These Accidents Typically Happen

In Dublin and Tallaght, these incidents often occur:

At busy junctions, especially where sightlines are blocked or turning space is limited
Near delivery bays, business parks, or retail centres where large trucks reverse or manoeuvre in tight quarters
On motorways like the M50, where merging, overtaking, or lane changes at speed can lead to rear-end collisions or sideswipes
Along rural haulage routes, where road conditions, lighting, and weather present added risks

Urban areas like Tallaght Village, Cookstown, Greenhills Road, and Belgard Road all see regular lorry traffic due to their mix of retail, logistics, and commuter routes

Why These Accidents Are Increasing

There are now more lorries on Irish roads than ever before. The rise of online shopping, 24-hour logistics, and just-in-time delivery means that HGVs are active in all parts of the country—day and night. In Dublin, you’ll see them weaving through city streets or arriving at warehouses during off-peak hours.

This increased volume, combined with pressure on drivers to meet tight schedules, means that mistakes are more likely—and the cost of those mistakes is higher.

At John O’Leary Solicitors LLP, we’ve seen first-hand the damage that HGV collisions can cause to people’s lives. Whether it’s a family struck on the school run or a cyclist injured on a delivery route, the consequences are rarely minor.

That’s why it’s so important to take these incidents seriously. If you’ve been affected, you deserve legal guidance that’s just as serious—and entirely focused on helping you recover.

Who Can Claim After a Lorry or HGV Accident?

If you’ve been injured in an accident involving a lorry or heavy goods vehicle (HGV), you may be entitled to bring a claim—even if you weren’t driving or directly involved in the crash. These collisions affect a wide range of people, and Irish law recognises the right to seek compensation when someone else’s negligence has caused you harm.

1. Drivers and Passengers in Smaller Vehicles

The most common claims involve motorists who were struck by a lorry while stopped, turning, or travelling alongside in another lane. Even at low speeds, the weight of an HGV can cause serious injuries to drivers and passengers in standard vehicles. If you were involved in this type of crash and weren’t at fault, you may be eligible to claim for physical injuries, lost earnings, and more.

2. Cyclists and Pedestrians

Lorries operating in urban settings like Tallaght, Clondalkin, or central Dublin pose serious risks to cyclists and pedestrians—particularly at junctions and roundabouts. If you were hit, clipped, or forced off balance by an HGV, you may still have a case even if the driver didn’t stop or wasn’t aware of the contact. These are among the most vulnerable road user claims we handle.

3. Lorry Drivers Themselves

If you were driving a lorry when the crash occurred, you may still be able to claim—especially if another motorist caused the incident, or if your employer contributed by assigning an unsafe vehicle, demanding excessive hours, or failing to provide proper breaks or safety equipment.

4. Passengers or Witnesses Affected by the Incident

If you were a passenger in a vehicle hit by a lorry, or a bystander injured in the aftermath of a collision (e.g. from flying debris or a secondary impact), you may also be entitled to pursue a claim. Each case is reviewed based on the circumstances and the injury sustained.

5. Parents Claiming for Children

Parents or guardians can bring a claim on behalf of a child injured in an HGV accident. These claims are handled with care and transparency, and we’ll guide you every step of the way.

Common Causes of Lorry Accidents and Who’s Liable

Understanding what caused a lorry or HGV accident is key to establishing who is legally responsible. These vehicles require skill, patience, and adherence to strict safety rules—but when standards slip, the results can be devastating. Below are the most common causes we see and how liability is determined in each case.

Driver Fatigue and Breach of Rest Periods

Lorry drivers face long hours on the road. Although EU regulations require rest periods and tachograph monitoring, breaches are still common. A tired driver may lose focus, react too slowly, or even fall asleep at the wheel. If the driver exceeded legal driving hours—or if their employer pressured them to do so—this may form the basis of a strong liability claim.

Distraction and Inattention

The use of mobile phones, GPS systems, and even internal comms equipment can take a driver’s attention off the road. In urban areas like Tallaght or Dublin city centre, even a moment’s distraction can lead to serious consequences for pedestrians, cyclists, or other vehicles. Drivers have a clear duty to remain focused, and employers must train and monitor staff accordingly.

Blind Spots and Turning Errors

Lorry drivers are trained to check mirrors and allow for wide turning circles. However, we’ve seen many cases where pedestrians, cyclists, or smaller cars are caught in a blind spot during a turn or lane change. In these cases, liability may rest squarely with the driver—especially if mirrors or camera systems weren’t used properly.

Overloading and Poor Cargo Management

Overloaded or unevenly loaded lorries are harder to control and more prone to tipping, swerving, or jackknifing. If improper loading contributed to the accident, the driver, employer, or third-party loading contractor could be responsible.

Weather and Road Conditions

While poor weather doesn’t excuse negligence, it does require greater care. In high winds, for example, trailers can sway and pose a hazard. Wet roads increase stopping distance. Drivers and fleet managers must factor these risks into route planning and driving behaviour. If they don’t, they may be found liable.

Shared Fault and Contributory Negligence

Not every accident is black and white. Sometimes, fault is shared—for example, where a car driver brakes suddenly, but the lorry driver is following too closely. In such cases, both parties may bear a percentage of liability, and compensation is adjusted accordingly. We’ll gather the evidence to fairly represent your position.

Mechanical Failures and Poor Vehicle Maintenance

Lorries undergo heavy wear and tear and must be properly maintained. Common mechanical faults that cause accidents include:

Worn brakes
Bald or underinflated tyres
Defective steering or suspension systems
Faulty lights or indicators

In these cases, the vehicle owner or maintenance contractor may be held liable for failing to keep the truck roadworthy.

Injuries in Lorry Accidents

Collisions involving lorries or HGVs often result in more serious injuries than typical road accidents. The sheer weight and force of these vehicles mean even low-speed crashes can cause significant harm. Whether you were in another vehicle, on foot, or working as a lorry driver yourself, the physical and emotional impact of such an incident can be long-lasting.

Common Physical Injuries

We frequently assist clients who have suffered:

Fractures and broken bones, often requiring surgery or immobilisation
Spinal injuries, which can affect mobility or cause chronic pain
Head trauma or concussion, particularly where the impact was sudden or unexpected
Soft tissue damage to the neck, back, or shoulders from jolting movements
Crush injuries, especially in side-impact or under-run incidents

These types of injuries can affect your ability to work, care for dependents, or carry out everyday tasks. Even a “minor” injury can have serious financial consequences if it limits your movement, delays your return to work, or causes ongoing pain.

Emotional and Psychological Effects

The emotional toll of a lorry accident should not be underestimated. Many people experience:

Shock and anxiety in the days and weeks after the incident
Sleep problems or flashbacks, especially after high-impact collisions
Loss of confidence while driving, particularly near large vehicles
Difficulty using public roads or returning to the scene of the accident

These symptoms can surface gradually and may require medical support, counselling, or time off work.

Long-term Impact

For some, recovery is quick. For others, especially older individuals or those with pre-existing health conditions, the journey can be much longer. We’ve seen cases where clients need:

Ongoing physiotherapy
Repeat consultations with orthopaedic or neurological specialists
Adjustments to their home or car to maintain independence
Assistance from family members or carers for basic tasks

At John O’Leary Solicitors LLP, we take the full picture into account—not just the initial diagnosis. If your injuries have changed how you live or how you feel, those details matter in your claim. They deserve to be recognised, and we’re here to make sure they are.

What to Do After a Lorry Accident in Ireland

If you’ve been involved in a lorry or HGV accident, knowing what to do next can make a real difference. It’s normal to feel shaken or overwhelmed, but taking a few key steps—when you’re able—can protect both your health and your right to bring a claim later on. Whether the accident happened in Tallaght or anywhere across Dublin, these actions apply.

Prioritise Safety and Call Emergency Services

If there are injuries or a road obstruction, dial 999 or 112 immediately. Don’t try to move anyone who may be seriously hurt. Paramedics and Gardaí will assess the scene and ensure everyone gets the care they need.

Report the Incident to the Gardaí

Even if you think it’s minor, make sure it’s officially reported. You can do this at the scene or afterward by visiting your local Garda station—such as Tallaght Garda Station. A formal Garda report can be very useful when pursuing a claim.

Gather Information at the Scene

If you are able, safely collect:

The lorry’s registration number and any visible company name or logo
The driver’s name, contact details, and insurance information
Names and numbers of witnesses, including passengers or bystanders
Photos of the damage, road layout, skid marks, and any signage or hazards

Don’t worry if you missed something. Your solicitor can help retrieve additional evidence later.

Seek Medical Attention

Some injuries don’t show up immediately. Whiplash, bruising, or internal trauma may take hours—or days—to appear. Visit your GP or Tallaght University Hospital as soon as possible, and make sure your symptoms are recorded.

Having a clear medical record helps prove the link between the accident and your injuries. If your symptoms worsen later, you’ll have a documented trail to support your claim.

Keep a Personal Record

In the days and weeks after the accident, write down:

How your injuries feel, and how they affect your daily life
Any work you’ve missed or appointments you’ve had to attend
Extra expenses like travel, medication, or childcare
Emotional effects—such as sleep problems, anxiety, or panic attacks

These notes can be valuable when building a full picture of your case. They help us ensure that nothing important gets overlooked.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I claim if the lorry driver didn’t stop?

Yes. If the lorry driver left the scene or failed to provide their details, you may still be able to bring a claim through the Motor Insurers’ Bureau of Ireland (MIBI). Report the incident to the Gardaí as soon as possible.

What if I was partly at fault for the accident?

You may still be entitled to compensation. In cases of shared fault (contributory negligence), your award may be reduced, but not necessarily denied. We’ll help assess your level of liability based on the evidence.

Do I need the lorry’s company details to make a claim?

It helps, but it’s not essential. If you have the registration number or know the time and location of the accident, we can often trace the operator through vehicle databases or Garda reports.

Can I claim if I was working as a lorry driver at the time?

Yes. If your employer’s negligence contributed to your injury—through unsafe conditions, poor vehicle maintenance, or excessive hours—you may be entitled to claim under employer liability laws.

What evidence will help my lorry accident claim?

Photographs, witness details, medical reports, Garda statements, and your own notes can all help. Tachograph data and dashcam footage are also valuable if available.

How long do I have to make a claim?

In most cases, you have two years from the date of the accident to initiate legal proceedings. However, it’s always best to seek advice as early as possible.

Are lorry accident claims more difficult than regular road accident claims?

They can be, due to the scale of injury, complex liability, and involvement of commercial insurers. That’s why having a solicitor experienced in HGV cases is so important.

Can I bring a claim on behalf of someone else?

Yes. Parents can claim on behalf of injured children, and family members can assist someone who lacks capacity. We’ll guide you through the appropriate steps for your situation.

Speak to a Local Solicitor

If you’ve been involved in a lorry accident and aren’t sure where to begin, start with a conversation. Call or email John O’Leary Solicitors LLP today and take that first step forward.