Category: Seasonal

Peace of Mind for Christmas: Gowing Law Solicitors PPI Tax Claims

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PPI Tax Claims: Get a little extra this Christmas!

PPI Tax Claims may seem a little intimidating when you first hear about them, but they are not as complicated as you may think! In the UK, there are people who could be owed £100’s in PPI tax compensation. That’s why Gowing Law Solicitors is will get you a refund of your tax before Christmas. 2020 has been a bad year for everyone around the world. Covid-19 has caused so much financial and emotional stress for people in the UK. We want to get our clients a little extra back this Christmas. Claiming back your PPI tax means you can put away the pay-out for Christmas, or you can save it for a rainy day. The choice is yours!

Gowing Law is here to support you throughout the Christmas period with your PPI tax claim. This year we have managed to claim around £10,000 in rebates for our clients. We intend to keep going and make sure that people around the UK get the pay-out that they deserve. The best way to find out if you are eligible to make a claim is to speak with Gowing Law Solicitors yourself. Click on the button below to get started!

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Why should I make a PPI Tax Claim before Christmas?

As we stated before, the UK has been through a rough year. Not only are we still going through the second lockdown, but so many people have lost their jobs and are currently struggling to maintain their livelihoods during the winter season. That’s why we want to give our clients something a little extra before the end of the Christmas season from HMRC. We will make sure that you get the highest amount of compensation possible. Even if you have already been rejected for a PPI tax pay-out from HMRC, Gowing Law can help you figure out why you were rejected.

Gowing Law’s Solicitors will fill out of the paperwork on your behalf. That way there will be no mistakes. All you need to do is tell us the basic details of your claim and we can do all of the hard work. This means you will just need to sit back, wait and let us get the cheque sent to you. It’s that simple and can get you a little extra spending money just in time for Christmas.

how long it takes to make a ppi tax claim

PPI Claims: What do I need to know about them?

Before we jump into PPI tax claims, let’s have a small chat about why the tax was taken off in the first place. Now, PPI stands for Payment Protection Insurance. It was originally sold as a safety blanket for those who took out some sort of payment plan. This included credit cards, home insurance, catalogue schemes and many other different types of loans. The problem with PPI is that most of the time the policy did not fit the person buying it, or the payments were not enough to cover the amount needed to pay off the loans. Therefore, having PPI scheme ended up being completely useless.

PPI being mis-sold

That is the why the UK government decided to return the amount that their clients spent on their PPI. The only problem was, when the PPI amount was returned, in most cases around 20% of tax was taken away by HMRC. That tax can be returned through a PPI tax claims. This is where Gowing Law wants to step in to help our clients in the simplest way possible. We have created our own PPI tax form just to make things a little simpler!

Why did HMRC take tax off my PPI pay-out?

In some cases, taking off PPI tax from your pay-out may have been an automatic transaction by the banks at 20%. However, in other cases, your personal saving’s allowance may have been over-estimated without actually being checked. So you may have lost out due to the mismanagement of your funds. Take a look at the infographic below to learn how you could be eligible for a PPI tax claim:

PPI tax claims infographic

Now, as you can see these are only a few ways that you could be eligible for PPI tax claims. Everyone’s circumstances are going to be different. That’s why it is essential that you get in contact with a solicitor as quickly as possible. That way you can find out for yourself whether or not you could be eligible for any sort of PPI tax claims. Above all, it’s also the best way to find out the answers to any questions you have about PPI tax claims in general. Our solicitors can make sure you know exactly what you need to make a claim and get a pay-out in good time.

Why was I charged PPI tax in the first place?

You may be wondering to yourself, if I was owed a pay-out from my PPI, why was I charged anything at all? It may seem completely unfair that you were charged for a policy that you may not have even wanted in the first place! Well, that’s why it’s entirely within your own right to try and get your money.

Just to explain the basics of PPI tax claims, the pay-out you received from HMRC is actually made up of three things. These are:

PPI tax claim gif

Out of all of these things, the only thing that can be taxed is the statutory interest. However, if you have not gone over your personal savings allowance then this should not have been taxed in the first place. Your pay-out should have got you back to the amount you were originally at before you paid any sort of PPI. Unfortunately, 20% may have still been taken away as PPI tax. That’s why you have every right to make a PPI tax claim to get your money back.

self-employed PPI tax claims

How much could I get from a PPI tax pay-out?

If you are interested in PPI tax claims, you may be interested in the amount of money you could get as compensation. First thing we need to say is that every pay-out is different. For some people they could be owed £100’s, depending on the complexity of their case. That’s why we would always recommend that you speak to your lawyer so that you can estimate how much you are owed.

The amount you get for your PPI tax claims depend on the amount of tax you pay and your PSA. Take a look below to get an idea of how much you could get depending on your tax status:

  • Basic Rate Payers (20%): £1000 of savings tax free.
  • High Rate Payers (40%): £500 of savings tax free.
  • Top Rate Payers (45%): Sadly, you are not eligible for PPI tax claims.

As you can see, the amount of tax you pay does end up making a difference when it comes to your pay-out. Speak to Gowing Law today to get a more rounded estimate about how much you could get. We will make sure to do the negotiations on your behalf with HMRC. Even if you have already been rejected from HMRC, our solicitors can find out what happened and make sure that your next claim is completely validated.

PPI tax claims from abroad

How long will it take to make a claim?

With the recent backlog of UK court cases, it’s important that you are patient with our lawyers. The pandemic has caused a lot of problems in the UK, but we will still endeavour to get your claim sorted in a reasonable manner and as quickly as we can. We estimate that it should take around 6-8 weeks after you have filled out our form and have spoken to our solicitors. Feel free to ask them any questions you may have about your claim. You may also want to also check in and create a timeline so you understand what stage your claim is at. That way you will always be informed about where we are at with your claim and how you can help us move it forward.

How can a solicitor from Gowing Law help me?

Gowing Law is ready to help you with your PPI tax claim. That’s why we want to make sure that you get all the assistant you need when filling out the tax forms. Our solicitors can do this for you and make sure that your claim is completely valid. They can avoid any simple mistakes and ensure that you get your pay-out in a timely manner. Make sure to get in contact with us before the new tax year. That way you can make sure you have tax appropriately backdated.

Our firm has also created a simple PPI tax assessment form to make things even easier for our clients!  That way when you get to Christmas time, you will have a little extra in your pocket quickly. You can spend that on your loved ones.

Gowing Law’s solicitors are extremely experienced and will be able to advise you on the best way to move forward with your claim. You can always trust our experts and they will let you know exactly where you stand and how they can help you.

Is Gowing Law doing anything else for Christmas?

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Gowing Law is determined to get our clients a pay-out from their PPI tax claims and Marriage tax claims before the end of the Christmas season. We want to make sure that you get an extra present from HMRC before the end of the Christmas period. If you want to make a claim, get in contact with us. We would be more than happy to guide you through the claims process!

Asides from that, Gowing Law is prepping for the Christmas season. We have a number of giveaways, competitions, blogs and videos planned for your enjoyment. Makes sure to keep an eye on our blog page and our socials. That way you can see what the latest information is about our Christmas plans! We will not disappoint.

You may also want to consider signing up to our newsletter to find out more information about Gowing Law and out our services. Please use the form below to let us know you want to keep in touch:

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Contact Gowing Law today about PPI tax claims!

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Gowing Law’s solicitors are here to help you get the PPI Tax compensation that you deserve. Our solicitors will offer you free advice and consultations. If you are happy to work with them, they can help on a “no win-no fee basis”. That means you will always come out on top when it comes to your claim. You will never need to pay for any hidden fees and we will always be upfront about our costs.

Contact Gowing Law today by calling 0800 041 8350, emailing info@gowinglaw.co.uk or using our claims checker. One of our helpful staff will then be in contact. They will help you understand what you need to do next to move your claim forward. Feel free to ask them any questions you need answered!

Learn more about PPI Tax Claims

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Gowing Law is extremely proud of the blog on our website. We always endeavour to update it with new content that will keep you amused. This includes the basics of compensation claims, Gowing Law’s seasonal events and any updates that are happening with our firm. This includes more information about PPI tax claims during the seasonal period. Make sure to always check back once a week to see what’s the latest with our blog.

In addition, you may also want to consider checking out our social media. That way you can see any additional updates about our law firm. Check it out using the Twitter and Facebook buttons below.

Good luck with your claim and Happy Christmas!

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Car Accidents increase in the Christmas Period!

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Car accidents in winter can come with serious consequences. Whilst Christmas can be exciting, it can also mean that the road becomes more of a dangerous place than ever. Not only do you have over-zealous drivers trying to get from store to store, but the wintery conditions may end up making it too difficult to keep a safe from other cars.

Now, it’s believed that after the 2nd December, when the second lockdown ends, the shops and gyms will re-open in the UK in time for Christmas shopping. Most people are going to shop online for their presents, but there will always be people who decide that they want to take the risk of visiting a store. It’s not surprising. After all, we have spent months staying inside, including working from home. So, if you do want to take the risk, you should try and be as safe as possible, especially when you are out on the road.

If you have recently been involved in a car accident, don’t hesitate to get in contact with Gowing Law to get the compensation that you deserve. Click the button below to find out more!

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Why does Christmas increase the chance of car accidents?

With winter ahead of us, it makes the roads more dangerous to drive on. Winter roads can increase the chance of ice and black ice, meaning that if your tyres do not have any grip then your car could slide off the road. Did you know that drivers are actually 4 times more likely to experience a car accident in the lead up to Christmas? This means that there is a higher chance that you get hurt on the road than in any other holiday season.

The reason why the Christmas season is so dangerous for car drivers is due to:

  • Overcrowded roads
  • Impatient drivers
  • Drunken drivers
  • Wet and snowy roads
  • Impaired vision

Keep this in mind when you go out on the roads. If you are aware of what other drivers can potentially do then that means you may have time to think about how you can prevent an accident from happening.

drunk driving and car accidents

Weather Conditions, Winter Roads and Car Accidents

Both warm and cold weather can have an adverse effect on road condition. Now, a lot of the time accidents tend to happen in summer because drivers get complacent and believe that the roads are entirely safe. However, in winter, accidents tend to happen because of the impact of winter weather. If it rains then this could cause ice to freeze upon the road and cause vehicles to slip around. This can get even worse if there is black ice. After all, it is camouflaged on the road and you may miss it if you are driving quickly. This can cause car accidents.

If you need to drive on a winter road, make sure to be aware of the potential for environmental hazards that could damage your vehicle.

winter roads and car accidents

As you can see there are many ways that the road could be dangerous during winter time. Not only can the heat and cold expand any potholes, but any snow, rain, sleet or mist can make it nearly impossible to manoeuvre a car safely. The same can be said for motorbikes and any public transport. In fact, it may be harder for larger vehicles to be able to safely move on the road when there is ice. It is essential that they move slowly. If not then they may end up colliding with another vehicle.

What should I do to keep safe on the road and avoid car accidents?

We would highly advise that you do not go out when the roads are wet and dangerous. That’s because it is more likely that you will get involved in an accident. However, if you need to travel for essential reasons, you should follow these safety tips in order to ensure that do not get hurt:

winter road gif

The best way for you to keep safe when you go out is to make sure that you all of the needed necessities just in case you breakdown. This includes having a repair kit, blankets, food and drink on you. You should also have a hazard triangle on you to warn other drivers that you have broken down. Consider wearing a luminous jacket or bright clothing to make sure that you are spotted. You may also want to use your warning lights to ensure that people can see you. That way car accidents can be avoided even if your vehicle is not moving.

car accidents and car lights

How should I prepare my vehicle to avoid car accidents?

If you are driving around in the snow, it’s important that you drive carefully in order to avoid a car accident. The main thing you should be thinking about when it comes to winter weather are your own actions. You can’t control the actions of other drivers. But you can also make sure that you use the highest gear to avoid your wheel spinning in the ice and snow. Make sure to also drive slowly around the roads and avoid harsh breaking. If you harshly break, you may find that your car starts to skid. Should you find yourself skidding, do not immediately brake. Instead, ease off the accelerator and allow your car to come to a natural stop. That way there is less chance of it over turning or hitting another vehicle on the road.

How do I know if I was not responsible for a car accident?

If you have recently been involved in a car accident due to bad weather, you may be wondering to yourself if you could get compensation for what happened to you. Now, the first thing you need to discern is whether or not you were responsible for the accident. All drivers have a “duty of care” towards other vehicle owners on the road. That means that they are responsible for their own actions that could put others at risk. If you got hurt because of someone else being irresponsible on the road, you could claim compensation for getting hurt.

Being a victim of another driver’s negligence can include:

  • The driver being distracted
  • A driver eating, drinking or using a phone
  • An intoxicated driver
  • A driver suffering from road rage.

However, you may also have suffered from an accident due to your environment, the manufacturer of the car or even any repair work done on the car. If you can prove that you are not at fault for the accident, you will be eligible to make a compensation claim.

alternative groups responsible for car accidents

What sort of damages can I suffer from in a car accident?

Now, if you have suffered from a car accident, it is likely that you have experienced physical damages. Car accidents can be extremely traumatic and can give you a wide array of injuries. These can be short-term or cause you long-term ailments. Something as simple as whiplash can cause you spinal problems in the future. The more severe your injuries are, the more likely that you will be able to claim for a larger amount of compensation. Make sure to write down all of the injuries you have suffered from, or ask for a medical report so that you can proved how you were physically impacted from the accident.

Asides from physical injuries, you could also suffer from other types of damages. These include:

  • Emotional damages
  • Financial damages
  • Equipment damages
  • Loss of opportunity (I.e. wages and promotions)

Speak to your solicitor to calculate the amount of compensation that you could be owed. Your lawyer can help you calculate the damages that you are owed. That way when you eventually go together to calculate an amount during your settlement agreement. You deserve to get the highest amount of compensation possible, and our solicitors will be there to support you and make sure you get what is owed.

peak times of traffic and car accidents

What should I do if I am involved in a car accident?

Quite honestly, a car accident can be an extremely traumatic experience. That’s why you may feel unsure or a little dazed when you are caught in the middle of one. But if you follow these instructions then you will get compensation very easily.

The first thing that you should consider is getting medical help. Your injuries may be worse than you think, therefore it is essential that you get the help that you need. Call for an ambulance or the police to document the claim. You can also get a medical report from being checked up by your doctor. It is also important that you get the insurance number and contact details of the other party involved in the accident.

If you are well enough to move around the scene of the accident, you should consider looking for evidence. The more evidence you have, the more likely it is that you will be able to claim a higher amount of compensation for your injuries. Evidence includes:

  • Photographs of the accident and your injuries
  • Video evidence of the accident and environment (including CCTV and dash-cam footage)
  • Witness statements
  • Diary Entries
  • Receipts
  • Medical Records
  • Police Records

collecting RTA evidence

How much could I claim from a car accident?

Quite honestly, the amount you claim depends on the type of accident you have and how serious it is. A more complicated case with bad injuries may mean that a client is owed thousands in compensation. The best thing to do is to speak to your solicitor to find out how much you could be owed. You can work together to come up with an estimate, and then propose it during a settlement agreement.

How long will it take to make a claim?

Again, the amount of time will depend on the complexity of the case. However, it is important to understand that Covid-19 and the UK’s backlog of cases may cause further delays. That’s why you should speak to your lawyer about your case. If any problems arise then you will be the first to know about them, especially if they change your court date.

Is Gowing Law doing anything interesting for Christmas?

Christmas and Gowing Law

Currently Gowing Law’s main focus is PPI tax claims and marriage tax claims. We understand that 2020 has not been a very good year due to the pandemic. That’s why we want to help our clients get a little extra before the Christmas season. That way, any financial mis-handling compensation can either be saved or used to buy presents for loved ones.

Outside of that, Gowing Law is going to have a number of giveaways, competitions and interesting content prepared for Christmas. This includes Christmas themed blogs and videos to keep you coming back to our website for more! Make sure to keep an eye on our blog page, our newsletter and social media to see the latest updates. If you have any questions make sure to let us know by writing into info@gowinglaw.co.uk.

Make a car accident compensation claim with Gowing Law Solicitors

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Here at Gowing Law, we will always work hard to make sure that you get the compensation that you deserve. If you have been hurt in a car accident, our solicitors can give you free advice and consultations to help you figure out what you could be entitled to. If you want to work with our team, we can offer our services on a “no win-no fee” basis. That means there will be no hidden fees and you will always come out on top.

Get in contact today by calling us on 0800 041 8350, emailing info@gowinglaw.co.uk or by using our claims checker.

Ready to learn more?

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Gowing Law’s blog is always updated with the latest information about car accidents. That way if you have recently been involved in some sort of collision, you can understand that the basics of your claim before you even make it! Not only that, but our blog is here to help you keep updated about the latest seasonal events that are going on at our law firm. Click the button above to read more blogs on our website. You can also follow our social media below to check out our latest giveaways and competitions.

Happy Christmas!

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Road Accidents: How to keep safe driving in winter

Christmas RTA header

Safe drivers are happy drivers!

Road accidents can happen to even the safest of drivers. We are all aware that wintery conditions can increase the amount of dangers on the road. In the summer, the danger comes from our attitudes to other drivers. However, in winter, although we are more careful, we have visibility issues and winter weather that can cause the care to slip around on icy roads. According to a survey by 1st central, a car insurer, over 65% of motorists have experienced an accident due to winter weather. That’s why, here at Gowing Law, we are determined to make sure that you keep safe whilst driving, that way you can enjoy Christmas to the fullest.

Right now, Gowing Law is focused on helping our clients with their PPI Tax Claims and Marriage Tax Claims in order to get the pay-out that they deserve. That way they can have some extra savings just in time for Christmas. However, we also are aware that other accidents can happen during winter.

If you suffer from injuries that are not your fault in a traffic accident, Gowing Law can help you. Find out more information by looking at our car accident page below:

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Winter Road Accidents: What type of vehicles are the most vulnerable?

Honestly, when people think about winter road accidents, they tend to think that there are only a few vehicles that tend to become more vulnerable when they are out on a slippery road. But honestly, all vehicles are vulnerable in different ways. For vans, cars and public transport, they are larger vehicles and may have less control on icy roads. However, for bikes and motorcycles, they are faster and may be prone to accidents around sharp bends or with other vehicles if there is vision obstruction.

The extent of your injuries will depend on the severity of the accident. For instance, if you had a smaller car and you ended up hitting a motorbike due to bad weather, you will find that the injuries of the motorcyclist will be more serious. Keep this in mind if you are going to file a traffic accident claim. Each road traffic accident (RTA) claim is different and you will find that the amount you get as a pay-out will also be different.

tyre pressure and tread depth help

What sort of road accidents happen in winter?

As you can see from our video, there are lots of ways that your vehicle could be impacted by cold weather. It’s important that you understand that the cold could affect your fuel, brake fluid and also the grip of your tyres. The snow could also affect your vision. This includes preventing you from seeing other vehicles and also ice glare. We haven’t even spoken about black ice yet. Black ice is almost impossible to see when you are driving, let along walking as a pedestrian.

Just to be blunt, here are few of the accidents that could happen to you if you are driving in the snow:

  • Brake fluid problems due to the temperature
  • Slippery tyres due to the lack of grip
  • Blurred vision
  • Extreme speeds due ice
  • Foggy environments

Whenever you go out and drive in a snowy environment, don’t forget that you should be at least using your fog lights in order to avoid any visibility issues. However, the best thing you should do is try to avoid driving on snowy days. That way you can avoid getting hurt.

Road traffic accidents and car batteries

How can I keep safe whilst driving on the road?

If it is essential that you should get out to drive during snow, blizzards or general winter weather, you should make sure to take precautions before you go out on the roads. That way you can always be prepared for any scenario you may encounter. Do not drive on winter roads unless you are fully awake, or at least have caffeinated beverages if it will help you focus on the road.

Take a look at our infographic to get an idea of some additional safety measures you should be considering before you go out on the road in winter. That way you can avoid any type of road accidents.

Winter Safety Infographic

One of the main things you need to realize about car accidents is that they can happen at any time and in any place. That’s why it’s important to always have an emergency kit on hand. That way if you breakdown you will be able to hold out until help arrives. You should consider packing a blanket, food, water, car supplies, an emergency phone and emergency signs around the vehicle to show your car has broken down. You should also keep your emergency lights on so other drivers know what’s happening.

road conditions and what to watch out for

How could I be eligible for road accident compensation?

Now, when it comes to RTA claims, it’s important that you make sure that you are eligible for the claim. The only way you can have a successful claim is to prove that you were not responsible for the accident. A claim is made in order to compensate you for any injuries you have. All drivers have a responsibility of ensuring the safety of other motorists on the road. This is known as a “duty of care”. If another driver is:

  • Not paying attention to the road
  • Distracted by a phone, food or drink
  • Driving whilst on drugs
  • Speeding
  • Driving without the appropriate insurance

You could make a compensation claim. But keep in mind that you will need to prove that you are not responsible for the incident. In some cases, a verdict may come back that you are both partially responsible for the accident. That means you will not be able to claim the full amount that you could have been potentially entitled to.

passenger claims and compensation

Can only people be responsible for road traffic accidents?

Around 7% of car accidents happen because of unmaintained roads. Now, in most cases, a car accident happens because of people. However, there are other bodies of authority that could be responsible for your accident. For instance, if you got hurt because of a broken road, you haven’t got someone who is physically there in order to blame them for an accident. Additional authorities that could compensate you for an accident include:

  • Local government
  • Car manufacturers
  • Repair Shops

Make sure to think carefully about who you are going to ask compensation from. In some cases, you may need to have more specific help. That’s why it is important that you speak to a solicitor about the accident. They can advise you on how to move forward with your claim and make sure you get the compensation you deserve.

faulty car equipment

What should I do if I am involved in a road accident in winter?

The first thing that you should do is get medical help as quickly as possible. You do not know how bad your injuries are until you get them checked out by a medical professional. To prove you were hurt in the accident, you can also get a medical report.

You should also consider talking to the other person involved in the accident. Take down their insurance and contact details to ensure that you can talk to them before your case is potentially taken to talk about a potential settlement agreement. If you are healthy enough to collect evidence then you should do it. Here are some examples of evidence that can be used in a compensation claims case:

  • Photographs of your injuries and the scene of the accident
  • Video evidence of the accident (Including CCTV and dash-cam footage)
  • Witness statements
  • Medical records
  • Police records
  • Receipts
  • Evidence of loss of opportunity (such as wages or salary increases)
  • Diary Entries

Hills and Winter Roads

How much could I get from making a road accidents claim?

If you were hurt in an accident that was not your fault, you could be owed thousands in compensation. However, the amount you get entirely depends on your own circumstances. For instance, if you have suffered from bad injuries, you’re naturally going to get a higher amount of compensation than someone who has just suffered a few bruises. The compensation you get is determined by the damages you have suffered from. These include:

  • Physical Damages
  • Emotional Damages
  • Financial Damages
  • Equipment Damages
  • Loss of Opportunity (i.e. wage increase or job promotions)

When you gather your evidence, make sure to consider these damages as they could add to your claim. Just keep in mind that you can only claim for emotional damages if you have suffered from physical injuries as well. Make sure to also get a medical report to prove that emotional/psychological issues have affected your life ever since your accident.

How long will it take to make a claim?

Honestly, this depends on the severity and complexity of your claim. Naturally, if you have made a claim and the claimant refuses to accept responsibility, you will find that it takes longer than expected to have a successful claim. However, if the person responsible was not an insured driver and was breaking the speed limit, it is likely that the claim will be handled more quickly.

Keep in mind that things may also take longer due to the current lockdown and the backlog of the UK courts. Be patient with your solicitor and speak to them to learn more about an estimate timeline of your claim. They can let you know if there are any delays.

Is Gowing Law doing anything for Christmas?

Happy Christmas sign

Now that Gowing Law has just finished our International Men’s Day campaign, we are now set to focus on Christmas! For our clients, we are directing our attention to our PPI tax claims and Marriage Tax Claims. That way they can get a pay-out from 6-8 weeks before Christmas! If you want to find out more, make sure to contact us to find out what you could be missing out on!

Now, in terms of Christmas, Gowing Law has a number of events and blogs planned to put you in the holiday spirit. This includes giveaways, competitions and interesting Christmas themed blogs. Make sure to keep checking back on our blog, newsletters and socials to find out more information! You can also write into info@gowinglaw.co.uk to learn more quickly.

Gowing Law can help you with your road traffic accident claim

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If you have got hurt due to a winter road accident, Gowing Law will be here to support you throughout your claim. We can give you expert advice and consultations to get you started. That means you will always know where you stand with our lawyers. If you are happy to work with us, we can offer our services on a “no win-no fee” basis. That means you will never have to pay any fees. You will only need to pay our solicitors if we win your case. So you will always come out on top.

Speak to Gowing Law today about your claim by calling 0800 041 8350, emailing info@gowinglaw.co.uk or by using our claims checker. Our specialists will then be in contact to walk you through your claim and make sure you get the largest amount of compensation possible.

Read more about road traffic accidents now!

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If you want to learn more about RTA claims, Gowing Law is here to make sure you know the basics! Our blog is constantly updated with new content to make sure you understand everything about different compensation claims and UK legal updates. We also write about our seasonal events and campaigns. So, make sure to check back every week to see what is new. We would also be happy to write about any topics you would like to suggest. Send them in to info@gowinglaw.co.uk. Make sure to also check out our social media to see our latest giveaways and updates.

We look forward to seeing you in our next blog!

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Make a Marriage Tax Claim this Christmas!

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It’s the perfect time to make a Marriage Tax Claim!

A marriage tax claim is a great way to get a tax break for both you and your partner during the holiday season. Did you know that you could get up to £1,200 back from HMRC that could reduce the amount of tax you pay? This Christmas, we are determined to give our clients the gift of a successful Marriage tax and PPI Tax claim. So far, we have already helped our PPI Tax Clients get around £10,000 in rebates. This includes rebates for people who were originally rejected by HMRC.

2020 has not been the best year for people. With Covid-19 and the second lockdown in full swing, we understand that UK residents need a bit of a pick-me-up. That’s why Gowing Law is determined to make sure to bring the Christmas cheer for all of our clients.

If you are married or in a civil partnership, you could be eligible for a marriage tax claim. Take a look below at our marriage tax claims page for more information on how you can get a pay-out that you deserve this holiday season:

Marriage Tax Claim

Why should I make a marriage tax claim this Christmas?

Marriage tax claims are not as complicated as you think. So far, in the UK, there are around 50% of couples that do know that they could be eligible to make a claim! We understand that this year, things at Christmas may be a bit tight due to the nightmare of the pandemic. That’s why we want to get you a pay-out that you can use for a rainy day or that can be used to contribute towards your Christmas present fund. A marriage tax claim can be used to reduce the amount of tax one of the partners pay overall, meaning that you will be able to save money together and put it towards making a better Christmas for your family.

Gowing Law is here to guide you through making a marriage tax claim. That way no mistakes can be made and your claim will be entirely valid. When people usually get to December, they are tired and tend to just want to relax. This means they are more likely to make mistakes. Gowing Law will make sure that this doesn’t happen with your claim. Instead, our tax professionals can fill out all of the tricky paperwork and can work with HMRC on your behalf. That way you can get your tax break as quickly as possible.

Marriage Tax Claim statistics

How does a Marriage Tax Claim work?

When you make a marriage tax claim, you need to see it more as a way to lower the amount of tax you and your partner pay together. That way you can make more savings to put towards the things you love at Christmas. In 2020, you could reduce the tax of the highest earning partner by at least £1,250. Sometimes this can be even bigger if you are eligible for backdating your claim!

Take a look at our infographic below to understand a little more about what marriage tax claims are all about:

marriage tax claim basics infographic

How do I know if I am eligible to make a marriage tax claim?

There are three criteria that you have to fulfil if you are going to make a marriage tax claim. These are:

  • You must be married or in a civil partnership.
  • One partner must earn under £12,000 and not pay any form of tax.
  • One partner must be a basic tax payer and earn around £12,500-£50,000.

Unfortunately, if you earn over £50,000 then you will not be eligible for making marriage tax claims. The same goes for if you both are in a tax bracket. For instance, if neither of you pay tax, or you both are basic tax payers, then neither of you will be eligible for a tax break. Instead, the transfer can only happen if one person is paying a high enough of amount of tax, that way the tax break will actually create a discount that could help save money.

Take a look at our example below to get a better idea of how much you could claim. Just remember, everyone has different financial circumstances. That means the pay-out you get will be different!

Case study for marriage tax claims

What does it mean to backdate a marriage tax claim?

One of the best things about marriage tax claims is that you don’t just have to make a claim for £250 for 2020-2021. Instead, you can backdate it for up to 4 years. To backdate a claim basically means to go back over the last few years and to see if you can get any tax from them. Each year will have a different amount of tax that you could claim for. Take a look at some examples of amounts that you could claim for:

  • 2019-2020: £250
  • 2018-2019: £238
  • 2017-2018: £230
  • 2016-2017: £220
  • 2016-2015: £212

As you can see, for each year, you could claim over £200, so together you could earn a lot more than you expect! It’s worth speaking to one of our solicitors to see if you could add to your total pay-out.

divorce and marriage tax claims

Can I make a claim if I am retired?

Of course! Even if your partner has unfortunately passed away, as long as you both had a personal savings allowance that made you fall into one of the aforementioned categories, you will be able to make a marriage tax claim. Don’t forget as well that Gowing Law also has specialists that will be able to help you with writing your will. As we are in lockdown, you may feel more compelled to write a will. Our specialists are prepared to help you with a single will (for £70) or a joint will (for £95). That way you can feel more secured if the worst comes to the worst. Speak to Gowing Law Solicitors today in order to find out more information. You can also visit our will-writing page to learn the basics of will-writing.

will-writing services from Gowing Law

Will it make any difference if I am self-employed?

Not at all! To be honest, this is quite a regular question we get about PPI tax claims. Quite honestly, it won’t make any difference. As long as you and your partner fit the categories of the different tax bands, you should be able to make a claim. Even if you are a contract worker or have a freelance position, you and your partner should still be able to make a claim. If you are still feeling a little unsure about where you stand with making a claim, don’t be afraid to ask our solicitors for help. We will always be willing to offer you advice and help to make sure your claim is started off on a good note.

Living abroad claims

How can Gowing Law help me with my Marriage Tax Claim?

One of the best things about working with Gowing Law Solicitors is that we will do all of the difficult work for you. Paperwork can be tricky to fill out on your own. That’s why having legal specialist on your side can really help validate your claim. You may have already been rejected for a marriage tax claim and not understand why. Gowing Law’s specialists can guide you through the claims process and make sure there are no mistakes filled out on the form. We can also contact HMRC on your behalf.

Additional benefits include:

  • Individualized expert advice.
  • Making sure your cheque/ tax break arrives in good time.
  • 100% No win-No fee help
  • No hidden fees

We will make sure that you get the support you need to move forward with your case. You can feel free to contact us at any time. We are open 24/7 to make sure that we can get back to you in good time to make sure all of your questions are resolved.

How much money will I get from a marriage tax break?

Naturally, you may be wondering what you could get from a marriage tax claim. But when it comes to any type of financial mishandling claims, it’s important to realize that the amount you get depends on your own financial situation. Some people may get more than others, depending on their PSA and how much they may pay for their tax.

To find out how much you could get from a tax break, make sure to speak to a Gowing Law specialist about your own claim. As long as you provide them with the basic information about your marital and tax status, they can help estimate how much you could be owed from HMRC. They will then work to get your tax break back to you as quickly as possible.

How long will It take to make a claim?

With the backlog of the UK court system, it may take a little longer than usual to process your claim. But we will endeavour to get your claim back to you as quickly as possible. It should take around 6-8 weeks but if your situation is complicated then it may take longer. The best way to discern about how long your case will take is by speaking to your solicitor. They can let you know an average timeline of how long it will take.

Is Gowing Law doing anything else for Christmas?

Christmas picture

Right now, Gowing Law is focusing on a small campaign to bring awareness to International Men’s Day, but once we have finished then we will start fully focusing on Christmas!

We have a number of fun events planned for the holiday season. Outside of focusing on marriage tax claims and PPI tax claims, we want to make sure that this holiday season is filled with fun. That’s why we are going to be creating a number of giveaways, blogs and videos to celebrate Christmas.

To learn more about them in the future, keep an eye on our blog, social media and our newsletter. That way you can keep find out first and get involved. We are determined to give away some excellent prizes to make sure that our clients truly enjoy the season.

Let us know if you have any questions about our future giveaways. We can make sure that you are the first to know about what we have planned.

Don’t forget about Gowing Law’s Loyalty Scheme

loyalty scheme image

Another thing that may get you excited for Christmas is Gowing Law’s loyalty scheme. We are planning to reward all of our clients for staying with us. If you join our scheme and you suggest a personal injury claim case to us, we will give you £300 if the claim is successful! All you need to do is go to our loyalty scheme page and fill out our form.

We are also planning on creating a mobile phone app that can host giveaways and competitions. These can get you free vouchers and gifts that will automatically brighten your Christmas. Make sure to keep an eye on our updates to see what the latest is about our loyalty scheme. That way you can get in contact as quickly as possible to learn more!

Get ready to make a marriage tax claim with Gowing Law Solicitors!

Marriage Tax Claims Button

Gowing Law will always do our best to make sure that you get the claim that you deserve. That means you can get a pay-out as quickly as possible. We can offer you free advice and consultations to get started. If you are happy with working with us, we provide you our services on a “no win-no fee” basis. That means there will be no hidden fees and you will always come out on top.

Contact us today by phoning 0800 031 8350, emailing info@gowinglaw.co.uk or by using our claims checker. You can also contact with us using our social media pages.

Read more about marriage tax claims

Marriage Tax Blogs

Gowing Law keeps its blog updated with new content every week. This contains information about our legal claims, seasonal events and the latest UK legislation. If you cannot find the legal information that you seek, make sure to let us know! We would be happy to write about your suggestions. Email us at info@gowinglaw.co.uk. You should also keep an eye on our socials and newsletter to make sure that you are always kept up to date with the latest news.

We look forward to seeing you in our next blog. Happy Holidays!

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International Men’s Day: Work Accidents & Male Workers

Celebrating International Men's Day Header

International Men’s Day: Male Role Models & Work Place Accidents

International Men’s Day is an important time of the year where we think about men’s health, improving relations between genders and what it actually means to be ”a man”. It’s important that we break toxic stereotypes of masculinity. Instead, we think about positive values that are important to pass on between the generations, such as respect, patience, open-mindedness and kindness

Now, Gowing Law has had a hard think about what we could talk about in relation to International Men’s Day. Already, Movember is in full swing and people are already making a difference when it comes to speaking openly about men’s mental health. That’s why we want to contribute in our own way by talking about a topic that we have a lot of experience with: Work accidents.

If you have suffered from an accident at work, don’t hesitate to get in contact with us. Gowing Law is here to support all of our clients with legal advice and consultations if they have been involved in an accident that was not their fault. We believe in equality and are determined to get you the justice that you deserve. Follow the link below to learn more:

Work Accident Claims Button

Why is International Men’s Day important?

Honestly, we understand why you may be feeling a bit confused about International Men’s Day (IMD). Many people believe that IMD is unnecessary because men have a history of being heard over women. However, IMD is not about that. IMD is important because it highlights the struggles that men go through on a daily basis. One of these is mental health and the inability to be able to ”open up”, so to speak, about mental health issues like depression and anxiety.

IMD also serves as a time to discuss toxic masculine stereotypes and why they are harmful to both younger and older generations of men. Not only can this day make a positive impact on the lives of men, as it gives them a day to speak about these issues, but it can also promote positivity and give light about how we can help marginalized communities of men, such as homeless men and boys in care.

Last year, the UK’s previous Prime Minister, Theresa May, stated that:

“I recognise the important issues that this event seeks to highlight, including men’s health, male suicide rates and the underperformance of boys in schools, these are serious issues that must be addressed in a considered way.”

These are issues that need to be addressed, and Gowing Law is ready to do so by joining in International Men’s Day 2020.

Criminal Injuries help

International Men’s Day: Work Accidents and Gender

According to international statistics, every 40 minutes someone dies from lung disease due to previous exposure in a work-place environment. For men, they are 23 times more likely to die in a workplace than women. Of course, this will depend on the type of workplace they are at. But either way, the fact that men are more likely to die in a certain work environment proves that there is still a divide in gender when it comes to specific industries. Men tend to dominate some of the unhealthiest industries in the UK. 9/10 of serious work accident compensation claims from these industries tend to be male employees.

Take a look below at the infographic to see some of the most dangerous industries for male employees:

male work injuries and international mens day infographic

As you can see, some of the most common male injuries come from industries that are stereotypically male dominated. Within male-dominated industries, men are 3.5% more likely to make a serious accident claim against their employer. This shows that there is still a form of gender bias within more physical jobs, such as building, manufacturing and agriculture.

Why are men more at risk of work injuries?

Due to Covid-19 and the UK lockdown, most of the country are going to be working from home and therefore are not exposed to the same risk of those who need to go into a physical work environment to get the job done.

However, men still tend to dominate some of the riskier job industries that could put their general health and safety as risk. For those who are older, long-term injuries could have also been due to dangerous work environments (such as work buildings that had asbestos problems). This meant that they were unable to keep working due lung disease and any long-term physical ailments.

Men are around 10 times more likely to make a work accident claim than female admin or clerical workers. Riskier jobs includes:

  • Male labourers making around 75% of serious accident claims.
  • Male machinery labourers making around 90% of serious work accident claims.
  • Trades workers making about 89% of severe work claims.

male employees and common injuries

Why should we take notice of these types of work accident claims?

It’s extremely important that we take notice of the statistics of work accident claims around the world. Not only does it show that there is still a gender bias in the workplace, but when it comes to physical/labourer type jobs, men are more likely to get physically hurt than women. These are loved ones who are a big part of our lives! Not only do physical workers tend to work long and strenuous hours, but during the pandemic there is very little chance of them being able to work from home in order to protect themselves and their families.

No one wants their loved ones to get unnecessarily hurt due to a work accident. However, if that does happen then Gowing Law will be here to support you and your family through this tough time. Men exposed to injuries that may never heal if they are older. But even then, younger men are 40% more likely to get hurt than older man. So, no matter the age, an injury is an injury. Gowing Law will be here to support all genders if they have been hurt in an accident that is not your fault.

Where are men more likely to get hurt?

How can you help your loved ones on International Men’s Day?

If you have a loved one in your family that has suffered due to a work accident, or perhaps even the stresses and strains of their daily work lives, the best thing that you can do is talk to them. There is a negative stereotype about men that they are not very emotional and can deal with anything. This is a toxic masculine archetype that has damaged male mental health around the world.

Talk to your male loved ones about opening up about their stresses and strains. If they have got hurt, encourage them to seek help and advice rather than just ”deal with it”. Sometimes the best thing you can do is just listen to men and allow them to open up in their own time. It takes strength and courage to talk about how you feel, especially if you have been injured. Therefore, you can be there for them to ensure that they never feel alone.

If you need some extra support about talking about the mental health and general health of men, you can find more information by checking out Men’s mental health charities. This includes:

male suicide statistics

Gowing Law Solicitors can help you with your work accident claim!

Here at Gowing Law, we completely understand that a work accident that was not your fault can be traumatic. Not only can it cause severe physical injuries, but your emotional health could be at risk. Whether you’re a man or a woman, we will make sure to provide you the support that you need in order to make a successful work accident claim.

If you can prove that your accident was due to the irresponsibility and negligence of your employer, you will be able to claim compensation for the injury. Take a look at the GIF below to see the types of injuries that you could suffer from:

How could I get hurt at work gif?

What do I do if I have been hurt at work?

If you have suffered from a work accident, the first thing you need to do is alert your team-mates and your manager. You should always ask for your accident to be written down in your employer’s work accident book. If you need medical assistance, it is recommended that you go to hospital in order to get doctor to check over your injuries. You can also get a medical record whilst you are there.

It’s also a good idea to collect evidence from the scene of your accident to ensure that you can prove you got hurt. Pieces of evidence may include:

  • Photos of your injuries and the scene of the accident
  • Videos/CCTV evidence of your injuries and the accident environment
  • Medical Reports
  • Police Reports
  • Witness Statements
  • Diary Entries
  • Financial Losses
  • Loss of Opportunity (I.e. promotions and wage increases)

You may also want to detail any emotional damages that you suffer from. It is possible that you could have been forced to get psychological medical help that cost you money. You can reclaim the costs of your damages by making a compensation claim.

International Men’s Day is here to support all genders!

IMD is an important time of the year that is there to support all genders during their time of need. Sometimes it is just important to sit down and speak with your loved ones about the trials and tribulations of life. Being a man is not just about taking the world on your shoulders. Instead, it is about opening up and making sure that you pass on good values to the next generation. This includes patience and kindness.

It is also important to look at the issues that can affect men in their working lives. Employers should always put their employees safety first. Whether they work on a building site or are considering re-opening their office, make sure that all your employees are safe and feel comfortable in their work. It shouldn’t matter what their gender is. Make sure they are happy and out of harm’s way. If they do get hurt, be prepared to work with them to get the compensation that they deserve. It should not affect your business.

Don’t forget about our International Men’s Day Giveaway

International Men's Day Giveaway

In order to celebrate, International Men’s Day, Gowing Law is hosting a giveaway on our social media. Nominate a male role model in your life that deserves a Ted Baker: Ted’s Tin and Tricks Toiletries gift set, like and share our post and tag us @GowingLaw to take part. The deadline for this competition is on the 19th November 2020 at 12 am.

Gowing Law Solicitors & Work Accident Claims

Work Accident Claims Button

Here at Gowing Law, our legal specialists are here to support you throughout your work accident claim. Our lawyers can give you free advice and consultations to get you started. If you are interested in working with our team further, we can provide our services on a “no win-no fee” basis. That means there will be no hidden fees and you will always come out on top with your claim.

Contact us today by calling 0800 041 8350, email us info@gowinglaw.co.uk or by using our claims checker. From there, one of our lawyers will be in contact to make sure your claim is started in good time. Let them know if you have any questions. Our solicitors would be more than happy to help you. You may also want to consider signing up to our newsletter to find out more information and updates about our legal firm.

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Read more about work accidents on our blog

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Gowing Law always keeps its blog updated with the latest information about legal claims, seasonal events and UK legislation. Make sure to keep checking our blog out a few times a week to see what new content we’ve uploaded. You may also want to check out our socials as well to see if we are hosting any giveaways that could get you some free goodies or vouchers!

If you can’t find content that interests you, make sure to let Gowing Law know if you have any suggestions. We would be more than happy to write about your suggestions. Feel free to send them into info@gowinglaw.co.uk. You can also keep an eye on our social media by following the links below.

We hope you enjoy International Men’s Day! See you in our next blog.

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International Men’s Day: Gowing Law’s Giveaway!

International Men's Day Header

Let’s spread positivity on International Men’s Day!

International Men’s Day is a very important day of the year where we can focus on the positive values of men and how we can support men’s mental health. Many people mistake this day as something that can be toxic, namely because men already seem to have a “voice”. But in reality, it’s a day for us to consider these male stereotypes and what we can do to break them.

It’s time to celebrate positivity that men have to offer in the world and the qualities that should be passed between the generations. Here at Gowing Law, we believe in equality. No matter your race, gender or sexuality, if you have recently been involved in an accident that was not your fault, Gowing Law Solicitors will be here to support you through it. We will make sure that you get the compensation you deserve.

Click the link below in order to get to our claims checker. That way you can fill out our quick form and get in contact with our solicitors.

Claims Checker Button

What is International Men’s Day?

On the 19th November, International Men’s Day is celebrated in order to give light to issues that men experience on a daily basis. 2020 has not been a good year for anyone. With Covid-19 and the second lockdown in play, this has put a lot of a lot vulnerable people at risk. This includes young, homeless men and children.

Did you know that the suicide rate of men is actually 3 times higher than that of women? On average, men are actually more likely to die around 4-5 years earlier than women. Men’s mental health is extremely important to talk about. There are still toxic stereotypes around that insinuate that men should not express their emotions and instead should be able to handle anything that life throws at them. This is why when men go through a difficult situation, such as domestic violence, they may not feel comfortable enough to inform people or the appropriate authorities about it. 1 in 3 men end up being victims of domestic violence. That’s why it is important that we have a day to speak about these issues, in order to let men be heard.

Remember that there will always be someone here to listen to you if you are struggling with your mental health. We would recommend any of the following men’s mental health charities:

Criminal Injuries Post

What is Gowing Law doing for International Men’s Day?

Here at Gowing Law, we believe in equality for everyone. That’s why we are determined to get the justice for all of our clients. In order to bring awareness to International Men’s Day, Gowing Law has decided to host a giveaway to encourage our clients to talk about the positive male role models in their own lives. You can learn more about this on our Twitter and Facebook.

To win a Ted Baker: Tin and Trick’s Toiletries Set, all you need to do is share with us a role model in your life who would deserve the prize, like and share our post and tag us @GowingLaw. You will then be entered into the giveaway. The deadline for this competition is the 19th November 2020. Make sure to get involved by checking out our socials! If you have any questions then let us know. We would be more than happy to help.

If you also check out our blog, you will find that we have also created some content in order to bring light to some issues about toxic male stereotypes and gender in the work place. In particular, male workers and work accidents. Did you know that 75% of male labourers make accident work claims? This is because they end up in riskier environments that may not have all of the safety checks of an office environment. If you want to learn more about the risks of being a male worker and work accidents claims, make sure to check out our International Men’s Day blog. Not only have that, but if you have experienced a work accident yourself, be sure to come to Gowing Law in order to get the compensation that you deserve. Click the link below to find out more:

work accident claims button

 Contact Gowing Law Solicitors to help with your claim!

No matter what type of claim you have, Gowing Law Solicitors are here to make sure that you get the compensation that you deserve. We are always speaking about important issues in our blog and on our socials. So, if you want to keep up with the latest information from Gowing Law, feel free to follow us.

If you want us to help you deal with a compensation claim, contact us today. Our helpful team will be there to give you advice and consultations to get you started. If you are happy to move forward with your claim, our solicitors can work with you on a no win-no fee basis. That means you will always come out on top and will not need to pay any sort of hidden fees.

Contact us today on 0800 041 8350, email us on info@gowinglaw.co.uk or use our claims checker to get started on your claim. From there, our claims team will be there to talk you through the basics of your claim. We look forward to hearing from you soon!

Want to learn more about our seasonal events?

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Gowing Law always keeps its blog updated with the latest content and information about our company. If we are participating in events, the best place to find out what we are doing is through our blog, our socials or our newsletter. You can also find information on the basics of certain UK claims and legal matters.

If you cannot find the topic that you want to read about, feel free to write in to info@gowinglaw.co.uk. We would be more than happy to write about your suggestions or questions.

We look forward to seeing you in our next blog and hope you enjoy International Men’s Day!

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Marriage Tax Claims: What could I claim this Christmas?

Christmas header GIF for Marriage Tax Claims Blog

We wish all Christmas Couples: Season’s Greetings!

Marriage Tax Claims and Christmas aren’t necessarily two things that you would put together in your mind. But for Gowing Law, these types of tax claims are our latest financial mishandling claims focuses. Right now, we have helped UK PPI tax claim clients get back money that is #betterinyourpocket. This has totaled up to around £10,000 and we are now ready to do the same for those who are eligible to make a marriage tax claim.

Did you know that around 50% of couples that are eligible for marriage tax claims have not actually made a claim yet? Gowing Law is here to put that right by offering our legal support to all of our clients who need it. We understand that it can be a bit daunting filling out a tax form. That’s why we are here to do that for you. It’s time for you and your partner to learn all about marriage tax and how you can make a claim. Click the link below to find out more:

Marriage Tax Claims Button

Christmas is the perfect time to make a Marriage Tax Claim!

Now, you may be asking yourself, why would you and your partner make a marriage tax claim in the Christmas season? Well, we understand that this year it has been extremely tough because of Covid-19 and the second UK lockdown. That’s why we want to do our best to add a little cheer to the lives of our clients. A pay-out from HMRC can add a touch of joy to your bank balance. It’s the perfect way to get some spending money for Christmas, or perhaps to add a little more to your savings. So many UK couples are eligible to make this tax claim and yet have not done anything about it. That’s why we want to make sure to add a little cheer to the lives of our clients by making sure they get the pay-out that they deserve.

You don’t need to do anything tricky to get involved. Our experienced solicitors can do all of the paperwork for you. That means there won’t be any simple mistakes made that could invalidate your claim. Keep in mind that you may need to be patient as there is currently a backlog of UK cases due to the pandemic. But we will always do our best to keep your updated about where your claim is.

Marriage Tax Break Help Facts

What do I need to know about Marriage Tax Claims?

As you can see from our Marriage tax claim video, Marriage tax claims are not as complicated as you may think they are. Let’s start off our discussion of these financial mis-handling claims by chatting about what they are actually all about.

A marriage tax claim is also known as a tax break. When you get a pay-out from HMRC this isn’t given to you as money or a cheque. Instead, it is used to reduce the tax of the highest earner by at least £1,250. You can backdate this for up to 4 years, meaning that you could claim even more depending on your circumstances.

How could I be eligible for a marriage tax claim?

There are three things you need to do in order to be eligible for making marriage tax claims. If you feel a little confused about whether or not you could make a claim, make sure to consult our infographic to learn more about whether or not you could be eligible for a tax break.

Marriage Tax Claims Infographic

By making a marriage tax claim, essentially you are moving a small portion of your own personal tax allowance over to your partner. This should come in around at 10%. Right now, the amount of a basic wage during 2020/2021 is around £1,500. Therefore, you could transfer somewhere around £1,250. Your partner could then take away about 20% of their own tax. However, keep in mind that this may change depending on your own financial circumstances.

tax brackets help

Can I have an example of how this could work?

Of course! We understand that finding out your own tax can be a bit daunting if you are struggling to calculate how much you could be owed. But that’s okay! Because we can give you some examples of how you could figure out how much you could be owed. Take a look at both your wages and calculate who has the highest wage and who has the lowest. If one of you is paying basic tax and the other is not paying any form of tax, that tends to be a good indicator as to whether or not you can be eligible for this type of tax.

The claimant with the lowest income should then calculate around 10% of their personal tax allowance (at this point in time £1,500). The high income partner can then use this to calculate how much tax they can take off. This should round off to around £250.

Take a look at our example below to get an idea of how this could work for you:

Case study for marriage tax claims

Am I allowed to backdate my Marriage Tax Claims?

Of course you can! Just like any normal type of tax, you will have around 4 years to make a claim. That’s why you should be able to backdate your claim by the same amount of time. The same applies for your PPI Tax Claim! So, keep this in mind when you make any sort of financial mis-selling claim.

Here are some examples of what you could get by backdating your claim:

  • 2015-2016: £212
  • 2016-2017: £220
  • 2017-2018: £230
  • 2018-2019: £238
  • 2019-2020: £250

If you backdate your marriage tax claims, you can claim the tax that you have missed out on all the way back from 2016. Overall, you could increase the amount you get from a pay-out. If you are curious to learn more about this then make sure to speak about your solicitor about it. They can help estimate how much your claim could be worth, and how long it may take to get a pay-out form HMRC.

retired tax marriage claims assistance

Can I make marriage tax claims if I am self-employed or living abroad?

When it comes to financial mis-selling claims, most people have a misconception that unless they are employed by someone else and live in the UK then they won’t get a pay-out. This isn’t actually true! As long as you got married in the UK and have a personal savings allowance then you and your partner will be able to make a claim. The only difference for if you work abroad is that your solicitor will need to use a different form. But even then, you will most likely not even notice it. This is because your lawyer will be handling most of the tricky paperwork. All you need to do is give them the information required to fill out the form.

Can I make a marriage tax claim if I am divorced?

Unfortunately, if you are currently divorced and have not remarried then you will not be able to make a marriage tax claim. You need to have two people in the partnership in order to have a tax transfer between the two of them. Think of yourselves as a unit. If there is only one person then there will be no way to make a transfer. Make sure to also keep an eye on your wage changes as this could impact whether or not you are eligible for a pay-out.

Will my marriage tax claims be affected by a job loss?

Now, we understand that 2020 has not been the best year for jobs. Covid-19 has caused people to lose their jobs as they are currently under lockdown. That means you may be wondering why you should think about applying if you are currently between jobs.

In some cases, not having a high wage may stand you in good stead, as it could make you eligible for a claim. However, it is also worth speaking with your partner about it, because if neither of you are earning a wage then you may find that you cannot make a transfer. Every situation is different, that’s why we would recommend you speaking with an experienced solicitor from Gowing Law to find out what you could be owed. You can also find out if you are eligible or not.

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Is Gowing Law doing anything else for Christmas?

Gowing Law Newsletter Updates

Of course, Gowing Law is always excited about the Christmas season! Our biggest aim for the next two months is to help our clients with their financial mishandling claims. This includes PPI Tax Claims and Marriage Tax Claims. We understand that the year has been a bit bleak. That’s why we intend to put a smile back on your face with a pay-out from HMRC. We endeavor to help you pay less tax so you can have more spending money for Christmas.

Over the next 2 months, we plan to have a range of giveaways, competitions, fun blogs, videos and social posts for you to enjoy. That way you can let us handle the difficulties of your tax claim, whilst you can sit back and enjoy the season.

Keep an eye on Gowing Law’s seasonal updates by signing up to our social media pages and our newsletter. We always write about our latest updates and will keep you in the know-how about UK legal policies. You should also watch our blog to see fun blogs and videos about the holiday season and personal injury claims. We’ll always make sure there’s something entertaining for you to read and enjoy.

Don’t forget about Gowing Law’s Loyalty Scheme!

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Another thing that may give you something extra over the Christmas period is Gowing Law’s loyalty scheme. Currently, we are hosting a scheme that is solely for our personal injury clients. If you recommend someone to work with our solicitors, and we win their case, you could be gifted £300 as a thank you! Make sure to check out our loyalty page to find out more information about our terms and conditions.

We are also working towards creating a Loyalty Scheme App that is just for our clients! The app will be for your phone and will consist of our daily giveaways and competitions. By entering these giveaways, you have the opportunity to win vouchers, prizes and much, much more.

Feel free to get in contact if you want more information about our loyalty scheme. It is currently still being developed so we would be grateful for your patient. But if you also have any recommendations for the app, we would be more than happy to listen! Write in your suggestions to info@gowinglaw.co.uk.

Gowing Law can help you with your marriage tax claims!

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This holiday season, let Gowing Law Solicitors help you get a successful marriage tax claim. We can handle all of the tricky paperwork and get you on track so you can have a well-deserved tax-break. To start with, our solicitors can offer you consultations and advice to get started. If you are happy to work with our team, we can work on a “no win-no fee” basis. That means there will be no hidden fees and we will always be upfront about our solicitors’ costs.

To get started, all you need to do is fill out our marriage tax form. It should take around 30 seconds to complete and will give our Manchester lawyers all of the information they will need to get started. It will then take around 6-8 weeks to get your claim sorted. Feel free to keep in contact to find out the position your claim is at.

Contact Gowing Law today by calling 08000418350, email us at info@gowinglaw.co.uk or use our marriage tax claim’s form. One of our specialists will then be in contact to help you through your claim.

Read more about marriage tax claims!

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We always keep our blog updated with the latest information about UK legal claims. This includes marriage tax claims and seasonal updates. Make sure to keep checking back to see our new content. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, let us know what you want us to write about. Send in your topics to info@gowinglaw.co.uk. You can also check out our socials and blogs to see what’s new!

We look forward to seeing you in our next blog.

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PPI Tax Claims: Happy Holidays from Gowing Law!

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PPI Tax Claims: 2020 has been a brilliant year for our clients!

Seasons Greetings to all of Gowing Law’s clients! PPI and tax claims don’t usefully go hand-in-hand, but here we are! 2020 has been an unforgettable year. Covid-19 has made its mark upon the world and has left the UK with a serious backlog of court cases that will be hopefully sorted once the second lockdown is at its end.

Despite all the hardships that the UK has experienced this year, with Christmas approaching it’s time to consider the good things and how this pandemic has brought us all closer together despite being apart. Gowing Law has been focused on getting PPI tax claims sorted for the UK public. So far, we have actually managed to help our customers get around £10,000 in PPI tax Claims. We are ready to do the same for you.

Get an early Christmas present today from HMRC by getting in contact with Gowing Law Solicitors. Click the link below to visit our PPI tax claims page.

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What do I need to know about PPI Tax Claims?

At first, PPI tax claims may seem a little intimidating. No one likes dealing with tax. However, in this case you could be entitled to a pay-out of £100’S and not even realize it! This is where Gowing Law can step in. We can help you get to grips with the basics of PPI tax claims so you feel confident about making your own.

Years ago, if you took out a financial agreement like:

  •  A mortgage
  • A lending scheme
  • A credit card
  • A payment plan

You will find that you had to purchase a payment protection insurance (PPI) plan as a security blanket or perhaps you paid for PPI without even realizing it. Either way, the plan was mis-sold to a lot of people. In some cases, the amount people received to pay off their loans from PPI simply was not enough to cover the expenses. PPI was also sold to people who simply didn’t need it, such as those who were self-employed or were moving abroad to start a business.

So, when HMRC issued a refund, unfortunately not all of it may have been returned to the clients. Instead, it may have been taken away as PPI tax. This is where our trained solicitors can step in order to get the pay-out that you deserve.

Living abroad and PPI tax claims

Why was I charged PPI tax in the first place?

Like we said before, no one really likes dealing with any type of tax. It can get tricky with the paperwork. One wrong move and you may find that your claim is invalidated. Now, when HMRC organized for people’s PPI payments to be paid out to them, the pay-out was made of three things:

  • A refund of your PPI
  • Any additional loans/interest that the banks added to your PPI in order to have it paid off.
  • A statutory interest of 8% that were added yearly to both of the previous sums.

The only thing out of those three categories that could be taxed is the statutory interest. Now, when you get your PPI claim back, it’s original purpose is to get you back to the amount you should have been at in your bank account. Therefore, if they believe that the amount you get is over your personal savings allowance (PSA) then they may deduct around 20% in tax in order to get you back to your original amount of savings.

This is why it could be time for you to make a claim in order to get your PPI tax back with the help of Gowing Law Solicitors.

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Am I eligible to make a PPI Tax Claim?

Now that you understand why you may have been charged for your PPI, you need to figure out whether or not you are eligible to make a PPI Tax Claim. Naturally, Gowing Law Solicitors are here to help you figure this out. That way you can get the PPI tax pay-out that you deserve.

There are three factors that will decide whether or not you can make a claim. Check out the infographic below to get started:

PPI Tax Claims Eligibility

Of course, there are some other factors that may affect your PPI tax claim. However, the majority of time if you fall into one of the categories above then you will be eligible to make a PPI tax claim. If you feel unsure about whether or not you do tick the appropriate boxes, get in contact with Gowing Law. Our solicitors would be more than happy to help you and get you started with your PPI tax claim.

How much could I get through a PPI tax claim?

When a solicitor is asked this type of question, the response tends to be similar to the quip ”how long is a piece of string?” This is because every case of financial mis-handling is different. Not only does it depend on how much tax you are paying, but it is also based on your PSA.

Whilst we can’t provide you with a detailed figure out how much you could be owed, for some people could be owed £100’s whilst others could be owed £1,000’s, here are some tax estimates:

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How long will it take to make a PPI tax claim?

With the current delays due to Covid-19 and the backlog of court cases in the UK, you may have to be patient with your solicitor when it comes to your case. After you have submitted your form, it should take around 6-8 weeks to get your pay-out. That means it will be here just in time for the Christmas season. It’s the perfect holiday gift for you and your family. Spend it on yourself or use it for your Christmas shopping. Either way, it will put on a smile on your face when you finally get your cheque from HMRC.

Christmas has come early with Gowing Law Solicitors!

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We understand that this year has not been the best for the UK and everyone else around the world. That’s why we have decided to start celebrating Christmas early and bring a little more joy to the life of our clients. The solicitors at Gowing Law always do their best to ensure that their clients get the best pay-outs for their clients. That’s why we will be running our #Betterinyourpocket campaign to make sure that we can get as many people as possible a PPI tax claim pay-out before the end of the Christmas season.

With our help, we can make sure that your PPI tax claim can run smoothly. There are so many benefits that can come with hiring a PPI tax lawyer. Instead of handling it on your own, and making mistakes that could invalidate your claim, our trained solicitors will make sure to leave no stone unturned to make sure that you get the money you deserve.

Additional benefits include your solicitors:

  • Negotiating with HMRC on your behalf
  • Filling out on tricky paperwork
  • Taking on your claim even if you have already been rejected from HMRC
  • Providing you with an easy form to fill out the basic details of your claim
  • Consistent communication to inform you about how your claim is going
  • Being honest with you and giving you information in a simple and digestible manner

Getting your PPI tax claim sorted can give you a pay-out that can be saved or used to enhance your Christmas. We all deserve a quick pick-me-up after this last year. Gowing Law Solicitors is here to make sure we put a smile back on your face.

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Is Gowing Law doing anything else for Christmas?

Gowing Law Newsletter Updates

We would always recommend that you keep an eye on our newsletter, blog and social media to see the latest updated about Gowing Law Solicitors. We have already started with our Christmas social media campaigns to make sure that you get the pay-out that you deserve with both PPI tax claims and Marriage Tax Claims. You should see those more often on Gowing Law’s social media. So, make sure to keep an eye on them.

Apart from that, we do have a number of giveaways, competitions, videos and fun blogs in store for you to keep you merry and bright throughout the Christmas period. That way, our solicitors can work on your claim whilst you relax and enjoy the holidays. So, when we finally arrive at 2021, you will feel like you are in a better frame of mind and are ready to have a better year than 2020.

Don’t forget about Gowing Law’s Loyalty Scheme!

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Recently, Gowing Law has implemented a loyalty scheme for our personal injury claimants. If you have already worked with our solicitors before, you could be eligible to get involved in this scheme! To get involved, all you need to do is recommend a friend or family member to work with our solicitors. If we have a successful case with them, we will reward you with £300! All you need to do is fill out a quick form on our website, letting us know your personal details and the type of claim you had. We will also need to know who was originally involved in the accident.

By getting involved in our loyalty scheme, you also have the opportunity to take part in additional competitions and giveaways that are only available for our clients. We are currently developing a Loyalty Scheme App that you can easily download on your phone. These giveaways and competitions can gift you free vouchers, gifts and hampers. These freebies will hopefully give you something to look forward to on a daily basis, as we intend to fully reward you for working with our lawyers.

Keep an eye on our website to learn more about the scheme as it develops. That way you can be the first to be involved when we finally get the scheme up and running.

Let’s share the Christmas Spirit: Get in contact with Gowing Law today!

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PPI tax claims can be complicated without the help of a solicitor to guide you through them. Gowing Law Solicitors can help you take control of your PPI tax and make sure that you can have a little extra spending money for Christmas. We can offer you free advice and consultations to get started. If you are happy to work with our solicitors, we can get your PPI tax claim started on a “no win-no fee” basis. That means there will be no hidden fees and you will always come out on top with your claim. Even if you do not win then you will find that you will not need to pay our solicitors.

To get started, feel free to fill out our form on our PPI tax page or get in contact with us. Phone us on 0800 041 8350 or email us on info@gowinglaw.co.uk. You can also use our claims checker. Once you message us, one of our specialists will get in contact in order to start you on your claim. Feel free to let them know if you have any questions you would like answered.

Read our blog to learn more!

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Make sure to keep reading Gowing Law’s blog to keep updated about the latest blogs about UK law, the basics of claims or our seasonal updates. Our latest content is created on a weekly basis to ensure that our readers have something new to entertain themselves with. We always speak about our latest competitions and giveaways on our blog. That way you can keep in contact and find out what new things could be won by getting involved.

If you cannot find a topic that answers your questions, why not let us know? We are always willing to take your suggestions on board. Feel free to send them via our email, info@gowinglaw.co.uk. You can also get in contact to sign up to our weekly newsletter. Make sure to also keep an eye on our socials which we have linked below.

We wish you a Happy Christmas and look forward to seeing you in our next blog.

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The top ten things you need to know about firework safety

Firework safety is essential if you are going to avoid any personal injuries on Bonfire Night. Whilst things are going to be very different this year, due to Covid-19 and social-distancing, if you do decide to use fireworks in private then it is essential for you to understand how to operate them safely. That way you can avoid getting hurt or unintentionally injuring someone else and getting yourself involved in a personal injury claim.

Here at Gowing Law, we understand that personal injuries can seriously affect your life. Not only can it impact you physically, but your emotional health and confidence. That’s why if you do end up getting hurt due to someone else’s negligence, Gowing Law will be here to make sure that you get the compensation that you deserve. Check out our public accidents page below to learn more.

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Fireworks Night, Firework Safety & Covid-19: A Warning

Right now, holidays and seasonal events are going to be very different to the usual. This is because the UK is going into a second lockdown and so you should not meet up with anyone outside of your own personal household/bubble. That means that it’s very unlikely that there are going to be any public firework displays that groups of people can attend. It also means that you can’t meet up with people in order to have a private fireworks display. Unfortunately, the majority of these types of events are going to be cancelled.

If you are going to hold your own personal fireworks display, you have to understand that if you do end up getting hurt because of your own negligence then you will not be able to ask for compensation. You did not follow firework safety regulations. The only way you could do this is through your own home insurance if the fireworks were set off or you were injured on your own property. Keep this in mind when you think about celebrating Bonfire Night this time of year. It may just be worth staying inside and keeping out of the cold. That way you can keep safe and not suffer from any potential third-degree burns.

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Firework Safety: What sort of personal injuries could I suffer from?

When it comes to firework related injuries, one of the most common ways that you could get hurt is on your hands. Think about it this way, you are using your hands to set off fireworks and to hold sparklers. That means that if you are not wearing gloves or something that can protect your skin, it is more likely that you will suffer from burns on your hands, fingers or palms. If you do not go to hospital then this will increase the likelihood that you will suffer from scars or infections. Without the use of your hands then you may struggle to do daily tasks or even do your normal work-day tasks.

Although your hands are the most common areas to get injured by fireworks, there are some other types of injuries that you could suffer from as well. Take a look at the infographic below to get a sense of where else you could get hurt.

firework safety personal injury infographic

If you have suffered from a personal injury due to fireworks, then you should go to hospital as quickly as possible. You don’t want your injuries to get any worse and you should always have them checked out by a professional. That way you can make sure that you can get a medical report, as well as a doctor’s note if your injuries are so severe that you need to take time off work in order to recover.

Firework Safety: What you need to know!

If you’re going to use fireworks on bonfire night then you will need to do it safely. We would recommend that you do not use fireworks unless you have been trained, however we understand if you want to do it at home in order to have a private event for you and your household. In normal circumstances, the safest option for you to enjoy fireworks would be to go out to a public event. But as you want to keep safe and in your own private social bubble, it is understandable that you may want to host your own smaller event.

That’s why below you will be able to find the top ten safety tips that will make sure that you and your family are safe on Bonfire Night.

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1. Plan where you are going to have your fireworks display

Outside of Bonfire Night, you will find that there is actually a curfew that you will need to adhere to if you decide to put on a firework’s display. Normally, it is illegal to put on a show between 11 pm – 7 am. On Bonfire night, this curfew will extend to 12 am. However, with the second lockdown, things are naturally going to be different. You can only use category 2-3 fireworks. Category 4 fireworks must solely be used by professionals. But you must still speak with your local council to make sure that it is legal to put on your show.

Make sure to pick a spot that is large enough to sustain a firework’s show. You need to be able to maintain a safe distance from the actual fireworks to make sure that no fire or sparks hurt the watchers. If you do decide to light the fireworks in your own back garden, you have to make sure that there is enough space for them to go off in the sky without the sparks affecting foliage or perhaps hitting someone else’s property. On the other hand, if you want to do it in a public area, you will need to get permission to ensure that your private event can be entirely legalized.

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2. Only use professionally created fireworks

For the purposes of firework safety, professional fireworks have the mark ”CE” to ensure that people can use them without them malfunctioning or exploding without taking off. They should come in a closed boxed without the cello tape and cover being tampered with. When you use them then you should only use one at a time to ensure that you can fully focus on the product and make sure it is completely safe to go off. Using multiple products at one time could distract you. It means that you cannot control their direction, speed and explosion. Focus on one and make sure you know how you are going to set it off and where it is going to land.

different types of fireworks and firework safety

3. Always follow the firework safety instructions

If you really want to adhere to firework safety, the best thing that you can do is stick to the instructions on the packet. The makers know how the product should be handled, therefore if you read them carefully you should be able to keep safe. Have a look at the instructions during the day time, so you have enough light to read them, and mentally prepare for the evening. You should never read the products by a naked flame, however you can also use a torch.

In some cases, you may find that the product instructions may either be very hard to read, or potentially carry misleading instructions. If you do suffer a personal injury due to a faulty product, this could be means enough for a compensation claim. However, you will need to prove how the product was faulty and provide evidence to back up your claim. This includes:

  • Photographs
  • Videos
  • Witness Statements
  • Medical Reports
  • Police Reports
  • Diary Entries
  • Financial Receipts

Naturally, you won’t be able to find all of these pieces of evidence. However, we would recommend that you do keep the box packaging of fireworks in order to prove how they were faulty and that the instructions were inaccurate. That’s going to be a major piece of evidence that shows that you were sold a faulty product and were a victim of negligence.

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4. Light the fireworks at a safe distance

Firework safety is all about lighting a firework at a safe distance. Each firework will have a lighter (aka. a string) which can be lit in order to start the chemical process. You should light your firework with a taper at an arm’s length to make sure that you are not burned. Once you have lit the firework make sure to stand well back to make sure that you are not hit by any stray sparks, smoke or noxious gases. If you do all this, you should be able to light a firework without getting burned or hurt in the process.

5. Keep naked flames away from the fireworks

Naturally, if you don’t intend to have a firework set off, then it is logical to keep it away from an open-flame. Lighting cigarettes, candles or anything that requires fire near a firework could accidently set it off if it sparks. If you do not have the firework set up appropriately from people, or it is still lying on the ground and it is accidently lit, people could end up getting hurt or things could get set on fire. Make sure to keep your fireworks in a place where they will not get wet or accidently set off.

lighting a firework and firework safety

6. Make sure to wear the right PPE when handling fireworks

If you are going to try and light a firework, you should never do this without wearing appropriate safety gear. Whilst this seems fairly obvious, but people do sometimes handle these types of explosives with their bare hands! This could potentially mean that they get burns and eventual scars. Try to find some non-flammable gloves that can protect your fingers and palms. You can also consider wearing goggles to protect your eyes or a mask if you are worried about any toxic fumes. It’s always better to be over-protected than handling a naked flame without any safety gear. That way you can always adhere to firework safety instructions.

7. Never put fireworks in your pockets

Now, this is fairly obvious, but honestly we think it’s important that you keep your fireworks in an open environment. Even if you are just intending to use sparklers on Bonfire Night, if you put them in your pocket then you will find that they could catch fire and burn you or set your clothes alight. Whilst this might sound pedantic, it’s always safer to keep your fireworks out in the open. That way if they do end up accidently setting on fire, you will be out of harm’s way. Always set off fireworks at a safe distance from yourself and from other people.

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8. Do not drink and handle fireworks

When we think about firework safety, we are talking about handling an explosive object that could cause personal injuries. That’s why you need to be fully focused and in your right mind if you are planning on hosting a fireworks event. It can be tempting to drink alcohol since you are going to be at a social event. However, if you do end up getting hurt because of a mishandled fireworks, the odds will not be in your favour if they prove that you were drunk during the fireworks event. It could mean that there is a case against you that proves you were negligent. You got drunk knowing that it could affect your senses, therefore it is your own responsibility that you got hurt.

If you are going to drink then do not handle fireworks, it’s that simple!

9. Do not return previously lit fireworks

Even if a firework hasn’t gone off, one of the worst things that you can do is repackage it. Never take it back to the shop and act as if you did not use the product. A used firework, even if it does not explode, is still a used firework. It has the potential to explode at any given time. That means that it’s very likely that it’s going to go off inside of a packet next to other fireworks. This could cause a massive explosion inside of a store and end up getting people hurt. This could mean that you are liable for a public accident claim. You were irresponsible when you gave back the fireworks after they had been used.

If a fire work does not go off after you have lit it, you should leave the product overnight. Then you should soak it in water to ensure that all of the sparks have been put out. If you are using larger fireworks, you may also want put a warning out for the public. You can also tape it off so people know not to go near it.

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10. Make sure the fireworks are completely out before you leave.

It’s important to make sure that your fireworks are completely dead before you leave. If you have decided to use a public space, make sure to check them out. You should then submerge them in water if they are still sparking. You should also ensure that the surroundings are completely safe before you leave the environment. The last thing you want to happen is that the product re-sparks and a fire happens. If you are worried about a potential fire happening from one of your fireworks, you should contact your local authorities. That way they can be disposed of appropriately.

If you want to make sure that everything is okay, come back to the area in the morning. They should be completely dead by then. You can also get rid of the remains of the fireworks to make sure that no one else encounters them.

Gowing Law can help if you have a personal injury claim

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Gowing Law will be here to make sure that you get the compensation that you deserve if you are hurt. Our specialists are here to speak to you and give you free advice to get started. They can also see you for a free consultation. If you are happy with their advice, you can then work with them on a “no win-no fee” basis. This means you will always come out on top and will not have to pay any hidden fees.

Contact Gowing Law today by ringing 0800 041 8350, emailing info@gowinglaw.co.uk or by using our claims checker. From there, our experienced lawyers will get in contact with you to talk you through your case. Let them know if you have any questions! You can also use our LiveChat if you need to talk to someone quickly.

Learn more from our blog

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Here at Gowing Law, we always keep our blog updated with the latest content. Whether it is seasonal legal matters or personal injury claims, we will always talk about it in our blog. Make sure to keep an eye on our blog to see what new blogs could interest you. If you cannot find a topic that could answer your questions, why not let us know? We would be more than happy to write about your suggestions. Send them into info@gowinglaw.co.uk. Make sure to also keep up with Gowing Law’s socials. That way you can see if there any current competitions or giveaways going on.

We look forward to seeing you in our next blog.

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The Strangest Halloween Personal Injury Claims

Halloween personal injury claims are more common than you think! Now, as a personal injury lawyer, it is very likely that you are going to get some strange cases. People get hurt in mysterious ways. But did you know that Halloween is actually the holiday where you are most likely to get hurt? This is because you’re roaming around for trick or treating, and you’re also going to parties in uncomfortable costumes. It’s not a surprise that lawyers sometimes have to deal with some strange events during their careers.

Whilst things may be a little different this year thanks to Covid-19, people can still celebrate the spookiest season in their own way. It’s important to take are to avoid personal injuries during this holiday, but if you do end up getting hurt, remember that Gowing Law Solicitors are here to help you with your claim. Use our claims checker to get started!

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A Quick Word of Warning: Covid-19 & Halloween

It’s so important this year that people take precautions for this Halloween. We would like to stress that with Covid-19 facing a potential second wave, it’s more essential than ever that we take precautions in order to protect our families and loved ones. You should avoid going out trick or treating and instead try and focus on enjoying the spooky season with fun and games inside your house. Gowing Law is hosting a costume competition to get our clients into the spooky spirit. However, we have some additional pointers to help you understand what you should be doing on Halloween night.

As you can see, the best thing you can do this Halloween is to actually stay inside and try and indulge in Halloween through a small party for you and your household, a movie or perhaps a creative evening of entertainment for yourselves. Whilst you may feel the urge to try and go out to a party, or perhaps go trick or treating with your kids, it just isn’t safe to do so right now. The responsible thing is to honestly plan your own entertainment and repurpose all of your activities to your home. That way you can avoid catching Covid-19.

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Pumpkin-Based Injuries & Halloween Personal Injury Claims

Did you know that in the USA over 3,000 people were injured through pumpkin carving annually? If you think that number is big, just imagine how many people must get hurt in the UK through similar activities. It actually means that overall, in the USA the amount of people who get hurt through pumpkin-based personal injuries is higher than the amount of people who get hurt at fun fairs!

There are many ways that you could get hurt whilst carving a pumpkin. Most obviously you could slice your hands whilst using a knife. However, there is also the potential to make personal injury claims from just lighting a candle inside of the pumpkin. There is a chance that lighting up a pumpkin could result in burns from being dropped or from setting the pumpkin alight! There has even been a case-study where a pumpkin ended up exploding and turning into a ball of fire!

If you are still interested in indulging in some pumpkin carving, make sure to follow these safety instructions:

Halloween Personal Injury Claims & pumpkin carving safety infographic

Of course, we don’t want to put you off carving a pumpkin! Just make sure that you keep safe whilst doing it. If you do end up getting hurt then don’t worry, you could potentially have a personal injury claim if you can prove that there was some form of negligence involved whilst you carved the pumpkin. Stranger things have been claimed for!

Haunted Houses: The Customers & Halloween Personal Injury Claims

When we think about Haunted House, we think about people dressing up to give people a good spook when they enter a scary house. That’s what Gracie Gail Durmon thought when she was walking through a spooky corn maze and saw someone dressed up as Jason Voorhees with a chainsaw. Giving her a scare, Durmon decided to try and run but ended up slipping and falling onto the ground. She actually ended up trying to sue the maze owners for negligence. However, as it was obvious the maze would have muddy conditions, and Durmon knew she was going to be scared going into the maze, she did not win the case.

People do end up getting hurt when they enter a haunted house because of the dark conditions and props that are sticking out in strange places. It’s possible that you may end up experiencing a slip or trip whilst you are in there. Unfortunately, if you have signed a waver or contract acknowledging that you are going to be scared when you enter the premises, it is very unlikely that you will have successful personal injury claims. Unless one of the workers outright attacks you and tries to hurt you, you will not be able to prove that you were hurt due to someone else’s negligence.

Haunted Houses: The Workers

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Whilst it might be quite difficult to make personal injury claims if you are a visitor to some form of haunted house or event, if you are a worker, it is very possible that you may end up getting hurt due to violent clients. Now, it is well-known that you are not supposed to touch the actors in a haunted house, as they will not touch you. However, that doesn’t stop aggressive visitors from lashing out in fear and hurting the actors that try to scare them. Workers may also experience repetitive stress injuries to their arms or hurt their vocal chords from all the screaming.

Larry Pit, a personal injury lawyer, has noted that:

“Haunted house workers are often attacked, causing them to suffer physical injuries, such as bites and broken noses.”

Some of the most injuries that a Halloween scare worker may experience include:

  • Broken Noses
  • Bites
  • Fire burns
  • Taser burns
  • Fractured bones
  • Bleeding

Workers may also suffer from slipping over props due to the darkness of the rooms and tripping hazards that have been randomly placed around the room. If you do get hurt as a scare worker on Halloween night, you can make a work accident claim. Make sure to tell your manager what has happened so it can be noted down in the work accident book. You should then get medical assistance as quickly as possible. You should next consider trying to gather evidence. Your evidence can include photographs, CCTV video footage, witness statements, medical records and financial receipts.

Halloween personal injuries claim for scare actors

Hayrides and Personal Injury Claims

In the countryside, you may find that there is a bit of a romantic tradition where people try to sit in a hay wagon for a ride around the village. Some people may bring up drinks or go for a trip with their partner. Whilst there could be a potential traffic accident with pedestrians or other vehicles, there have also been a few people who have actually been hurt by snakes or insects that could be nestled within the hay. 22 people have even reported being crushed slightly by a hay bale that has fallen over.

Whilst accidents and personal injury claims may happen with hayrides, the reason why you may find it unusual is because they happen more in the US or the countryside. So, if you live in the city, you may not have actually heard about these little rides. Make sure that the ride has insurance before you book your ride around the village.

Halloween night traffic accident claims

Decoration Arguments

You would be surprised about how many neighbours tend to get angry with each other for the type of decorations that they put out! Some people like going a little more extreme than others. They may go out and entirely decorate their lawn, whilst other people may decide on a simple pumpkin and some cobwebs around the patio.

Whilst this may not be a personal injury claim, it is a fun legal story! For one pair of warring neighbors, the Purtells were rather upset that their neighbours had ended up asking for an RV to be removed from their driveway. That was why they decided to passive-aggressively state their frustration through their decorations. They put some gravestones out that stated:

“Here Lies Jimmy, the Olde Towne idiot, mean as sin even without his gin, no longer does he wear that stupid old grin . . . Oh no, not where they’ve sent him! -1690-“

This started a war between the two neighbours after the police were called and forced them to take it down. They then decided to try and sue the police for taking down their gravestones. Whilst it was quite a complicated story, it is still quite funny to hear about them.

Keep in mind that you could end up having a personal injury due to the decorations that have been put out from your neighbours. You could slip, trip or end up getting hurt if you try to move them out the way. They may also be heavy and could fall on you. Keep this in mind before you go out to enjoy Halloween!

hanging pranks for Halloween warning

Common Costume Causalities & Halloween Personal Injury Claims

Apart from pumpkin-related injuries, costume injuries are extremely common. Think about it, you’re wearing tight-fitting costume that you will be moving around in constantly. This means that uneven walkways and long grassy areas are about to become your worst nightmare. Oversized costumes can make it more likely that you’re going to trip and fall over. This can cause some severe injuries.

However, injuries can happen due to the costumes and make up themselves. Whilst contacts and glittery make up can be fun to put on, however it can cause allergic reactions or may even be toxic! In some cases, there may even need to be a trip to the hospital in order to deal with any damaged or burned skin. Make sure to always do a patch test before you put makeup on yourself or on your children. You should also make sure to clean it off entirely before you go to bed to ensure that nothing goes into your eyes while you are asleep.

How do I keep safe on Halloween?

Although you should be planning your own socially distanced activities to enjoy Halloween, hopefully next year Halloween should be back to normal. So, if you go out next year, you should make sure to keep safe whilst you do it. Make sure to plan the trick or treating route in advance before you go out and wear a sensible costume. That way you can keep safe walking around and will not fall over. You should also only visit houses that have their lights on or decorations outside. That way you can know that they definitely want to take part in the season. You should also only trick or treat around well-lit areas. That way you can make sure that the area is safe.

Halloween Personal Injury Claims: Let Gowing Law help you!

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Whilst you may be a bit nervous about Halloween Personal Injury Claims, as you may think it sounds a little silly, honestly, if you got hurt due to someone else’s negligence, you should make a claim about it! Gowing Law is here to help you get the compensation that you deserve. We can offer you free advice and consultations to get started. If you are happy to move forward with your claim, we work on a “no win-no fee” basis. That way we will make sure that you always end up on top. You will never have to pay any hidden fees.

Call 0800 041 8350, email info@gowinglaw.co.uk or use our claims checker. You can also use our live chat in order to speak directly to our helpful team.

Read more about legal claims in our blog

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If you have been hurt due to someone else’s negligence, you deserve to be compensated for your losses. Our blog has a wide range of articles. They are great for teaching you about the basics of legal claims. We update it every week with new content, so keep checking back to see what new content we have created. You can also send in your own suggestions if you want to see specific blogs to answer your questions. Email us at info@gowinglaw.co.uk.

We look forward to hearing from you soon. Happy Halloween!

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