The registration of a sale / purchase contract is not compulsory; however, this can protect owners against third parties who may claim other non-registered rights against the property.

The easy answer to this question is one year from the date of the accident or one year from the date of a full recovery by the claimant, as certified by a doctor.

We would always recommend interrupting the limitation period within one year of the date of the accident if there are no ongoing legal proceedings.

The limitation period for criminal matters is six months and for civil matters it is one year. However there are exceptions for accidents that occur on cruise ships, in a port, airport, or in government buildings so it is advisable to consult with a lawyer as soon as possible after the accident.

In Spain the amount of compensation payable for a personal injury claim resulting from a road traffic accident is calculated in accordance with a strict scale system. These scales are also used as a guide for claims resulting from other types of accident. The assessment of compensation is based on three main points:-

1. Period of Hospitalisation

This is the number of days a victim has had to spend in hospital as a result of the accident, and a set amount is awarded for each day.

2. Period of Incapacity

This period is divided into ‘total incapacity’ – the time during which the victim is unable to carry out any of their usual day to day activities; and ‘partial incapacity’ – the time during which the victim is able to carry out usual day to day activities, but is still receiving medical treatment. Again, a fixed sum is awarded for each day of total incapacity and for each day of partial incapacity.

3. Permanent Symptoms

These are any permanent symptoms that the victim is left with as a result of the accident, after the period of partial incapacity and when medical treatment has finished. Points are awarded depending on the severity of these symptoms, and each point has a monetary value.

2. Are losses of earnings recoverable in a personal injury claim under Spanish law?

Net losses of earnings are not usually recoverable under Spanish law. Instead, a percentage based on the victim’s salary at the time of the accident, will be added to the total amount of personal injury compensation.

In order to make a claim for loss of earnings, you will need copies of your P60 certificate or other documentation showing your annual net earnings at the time of the accident.