Broken nose claim
In Ireland, if you have suffered a broken nose injury due to an accident for which you were not at fault, you may be eligible to make a broken nose claim for compensation.
The compensation amounts for broken nose claims are categorised based on the severity of the injury and the extent of its impact on your life.
The information provided by the Personal Injuries Guidelines, which were adopted by the Judicial Council on March 6th, 2021, offers guidance on the compensation amounts for different types of broken nose injuries:
1. Severely broken nose
1.1 Serious or multiple fractures requiring several operations and/or resulting in permanent damage to airways, difficulty breathing, nerves, tear ducts, and facial deformity. Compensation range: €25,000-€50,000
2. Moderately broken nose
2.1 Displaced fracture that required surgery and complete recovery, taking into account the duration of symptoms like breathing difficulties. Compensation range: €10,000-€25,000
3. Minor broken nose
3.1 Displaced fracture requiring manipulation and resulting in full recovery within six months. Compensation range: €3,000-€5,000
4. Simple undisplaced fracture with full recovery
Compensation range: €500-€3,000. When making a broken nose claim, it is important to consider the impact of the injury on your quality of life and ability to perform everyday tasks.
Compensation should consider any inconvenience or limitations you face, such as the inability to perform household chores, drive, attend social events, or participate in regular leisure activities.
Claim process
1. Contact our broken nose claim solicitor
Our experienced personal injury solicitors can guide you through every stage of your broken nose claim.
We will assess your case, explain your legal options, gather the necessary evidence, and manage the claims process on your behalf, allowing you to focus on your recovery.
2. Submit your claim to the Injuries Resolution Board (IRB)
Most personal injury claims in Ireland, including broken nose claims arising from road traffic accidents, workplace accidents, and accidents in public places, must first be submitted to the Injuries Resolution Board (IRB).
Medical negligence claims and certain assault claims generally do not proceed through the IRB.
3. Gather medical evidence and supporting documents
Your solicitor will obtain the evidence needed to support your broken nose claim, including:
- Medical records.
- Hospital and GP reports.
- Consultant or specialist reports where required.
- Photographs of your injuries.
- Details of any financial losses, including loss of earnings and medical expenses.
4. IRB assessment and defendant’s consent
Once your application is submitted, the IRB will notify the defendant of your claim.
The defendant has 90 days to consent to the IRB assessing the claim.
If consent is provided, the IRB will assess compensation using the available medical evidence and the Personal Injuries Guidelines.
If consent is refused, the IRB will issue an Authorisation allowing court proceedings to be commenced.
5. Claim assessment and settlement
The IRB assessment process generally takes about 9 months, though this can vary depending on the complexity of the claim.
If both parties accept the assessment, the IRB will issue an order to pay, which has the same legal effect as a court order.
If either party rejects the assessment, your solicitor can issue court proceedings and continue pursuing compensation on your behalf.
Throughout the process, Coleman Legal LLP will provide ongoing advice and representation, working to secure the best possible outcome for your broken nose claim.
Statute of Limitations
You have two years from the accident date within which to issue proceedings.
If you are under 18, a separate set of rules applies, and we recommend that you contact our solicitors to discuss them.
Learn more about the statute of limitations.
Frequently Askes Questions
Q: How does the Personal Injuries Guidelines classify a broken nose for compensation purposes?
A: The Personal Injuries Guidelines include specific categories for nasal injuries.
A simple fracture with full recovery attracts a lower award, while fractures involving significant displacement, functional impairment such as reduced airway, or cosmetic deformity requiring surgery attract higher compensation.
The most serious nasal injuries, those involving permanent breathing difficulties or significant facial scarring, fall within the upper brackets.
A medical report from an ear, nose, and throat specialist is typically required to establish the severity and prognosis.
Q: Can I claim for a broken nose if the injury required rhinoplasty?
A: Yes. Where a broken nose causes cosmetic deformity or functional impairment severe enough to require rhinoplasty, the cost of the procedure can be included as special damages in the claim alongside general damages for pain and suffering.
The timing of surgery, whether already carried out or anticipated, and the prognosis for full recovery will influence the overall award. Evidence from a consultant ENT surgeon or plastic surgeon will be required.
Q: What evidence is needed to support a broken nose claim in Ireland?
A: The core evidence for a broken nose claim includes:
- An accident report or Garda report where relevant;
- Medical records documenting the initial assessment and diagnosis;
- Imaging evidence such as X-ray or CT scan;
- A medical report from a specialist setting out the injury,
- Treatment, and prognosis;
- Receipts for any treatment costs; and
- Evidence of income loss if the injury affected your ability to work.
The stronger and more complete the evidence, the more straightforward the claim.
Q: Can I claim for a broken nose sustained in a workplace accident?
A: Yes. A broken nose sustained at work as a result of an employer’s negligence, for example, due to a failure to provide appropriate protective equipment or a safe working environment, is a personal injury claim.
The Injuries Resolution Board must be notified before court proceedings can be issued.
The Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005 sets out the duties applicable to your employer.
Q: Is there a separate claim for loss of smell or taste following a nasal injury?
A: Yes. Loss of smell (anosmia) or taste (ageusia) following a nasal injury can be claimed as a separate head of damage.
The Personal Injuries Guidelines include categories for these sensory losses.
Where loss of smell or taste is permanent or severely limits quality of life or occupational function, the award can be substantial.
An ENT or neurological specialist report is required to document the extent and permanence of the sensory loss.
