Why These 3 New Year’s Resolutions Could Save You Time, Money, and Stress

New Year’s Resolutions often focus on health or fitness goals, but there are also practical steps you can take to protect yourself if the unexpected happens.

At Gildeas Solicitors, our personal injury team see first hand how small changes at the start of the year can make a big difference later.

We offer three simple New Year’s resolutions that can protect you if you’re the victim of an accident in 2026.

Take Care of Yourself

It’s the most common New Year’s resolution – we could all do more to improve our health. But it’s important for another reason that unfortunately we see all the time as personal injury solicitors. In general, our clients who experience the best and quickest physical recoveries tend to be the ones who were fit and active before their accidents.

Being active can also be an important factor when assessing the full value of a personal injury claim. The law allows you to claim for disruptions to your lifestyle due to the impact of your injuries. It doesn’t mean you have to be a marathon runner – but it could be as simple as being unable to take your daily walk with your dog, playing sports with your kids or grandkids, or unwinding at the gym.

Change the Way You Think About Personal Injury Claims

Many people assume that making a personal injury claim is only appropriate after a very serious or dramatic accident. It’s a common misconception that the seriousness of an injury is only judged by the amount of visible damage.

The reality is that people can be seriously injured from even minor accidents with little or no real damage. We see major soft tissue and muscle injuries caused by vehicles travelling at low speeds – and accident victims can feel the effects of those injuries for months, or even years later.

The law exists to compensate victims. If you’ve been injured in a way that caused any change to your daily living or your ability to work – even if you were able to drive your car away – you should at least consult with a solicitor to assess if you have a potential claim.

Don’t Put Off Getting Legal Advice

Many people wait far too long before speaking to a solicitor after an accident, often because they believe their injuries will resolve or they’re unsure whether they even have a claim.

Unfortunately, delay can work against you. Early legal advice helps to protect important evidence, identify witnesses while events are still fresh, and ensure that your medical treatment and records accurately reflect the full extent of your injuries.

Speaking to a solicitor doesn’t mean you’re committing to making a claim – it simply allows you to understand your rights, your options, and the steps you should (and should not) take following an accident.

Getting clear advice early can make a significant difference later on.

Contact Gildeas Solicitors for a no-obligation chat today.

Claim smarter. 

Get your FREE guide to personal injury claims!

Check out our related links:

2025: A Year of Growth and Gratitude

What Happens Next In Your Personal Injury Claim

FAQs