Based on reporting by Daily Record, 18 October 2026. All rights in the original report remain with the publisher.
What was reported
According to the Daily Record, a teenage girl was struck by a vehicle on Old Dalkeith Road in Danderhall, Midlothian, at around 4.30pm on Friday 16 October 2026. Emergency services attended the scene and the girl, aged 17, was taken to hospital. Police Scotland confirmed the incident to the publication.
As reported by the Daily Record, the vehicle involved, described as a black Range Rover, failed to stop following the collision. Police Scotland has since launched an appeal for witnesses and dashcam footage, describing the incident as "frightening" for the pedestrian involved. Officers are appealing to anyone in the area at the time to come forward, quoting incident number 3760 of 16 October.
The Daily Record reports that enquiries are ongoing to establish the full circumstances of the incident. No details about the driver have been confirmed at this stage.
Road traffic accident claims in Scotland
When a pedestrian is injured by a vehicle in Scotland, they may be entitled to make a personal injury claim for compensation. In incidents of this kind, liability often rests with the driver of the vehicle, where it can be shown that their driving fell below the standard expected of a reasonably careful driver.
Hit-and-run incidents present a particular challenge because the driver responsible has not been identified. However, this does not necessarily prevent an injured person from pursuing compensation. In Scotland, the Motor Insurers' Bureau (MIB) operates an Untraced Drivers Agreement, which allows victims of untraced drivers to seek compensation even where the at-fault vehicle and its driver cannot be found. A separate scheme, the Uninsured Drivers Agreement, applies where the driver is identified but found to be uninsured.
Claims involving younger claimants, such as those under 18, follow broadly the same process under Scots law, though there are specific rules around how settlements are handled for people who have not yet reached adulthood. A claim can be pursued on behalf of a minor, and any settlement reached must be approved by the court to ensure it is in the claimant's best interests.
Time limits
In Scotland, the standard time limit for bringing a personal injury claim is three years from the date of the accident, as set out in the Prescription and Limitation (Scotland) Act 1973. Missing this deadline can result in the claim being time-barred, meaning compensation cannot be recovered through the courts.
However, where the claimant was under 16 at the time of the accident, the three-year period does not begin to run until their 16th birthday. In the case of a 17-year-old, the standard three-year rule would apply from the date of the incident.
For MIB claims involving untraced drivers, different procedural deadlines apply and it is important to notify the MIB promptly. Waiting too long can complicate or even prevent recovery. Seeking legal advice as early as possible is strongly recommended.
What compensation can cover
In a successful pedestrian injury claim, compensation typically falls into two broad categories: solatium and patrimonial loss.
Solatium covers the pain, suffering, and loss of amenity caused by the injury itself. The amount awarded depends on the nature and severity of the injuries sustained, and is assessed by reference to judicial guidelines used by Scottish courts.
Patrimonial loss covers the financial impact of the injury and can include:
- Loss of earnings or reduced earning capacity, including future losses where recovery is prolonged
- The cost of medical treatment, physiotherapy, or psychological support
- Care and assistance provided by family members or professionals
- Travel expenses to and from medical appointments
- Costs of adaptations or equipment needed as a result of the injury
It is worth noting that some Scottish personal injury firms deduct up to 20% of a claimant's settlement as a success fee. At Scotland Claims, clients keep 100% of their compensation with a 0% success fee, meaning nothing is taken from the amount awarded.
Frequently asked questions
Can I claim if the driver who hit me has not been identified?
Yes. Where the driver responsible cannot be traced, you may still be able to claim compensation through the Motor Insurers' Bureau's Untraced Drivers Agreement. This scheme exists specifically to ensure that innocent victims of hit-and-run incidents are not left without a remedy simply because the driver fled the scene.
How long does a pedestrian injury claim take in Scotland?
Straightforward cases that settle out of court can conclude within several months. More complex claims, particularly those involving serious injuries, disputed liability, or MIB involvement, may take considerably longer. Each case is different, and the timeline depends on factors such as the extent of recovery and the cooperation of those involved.
What if the injured person is under 18?
A claim can still be pursued on behalf of a claimant who is under 18. Any settlement must be approved by the court to protect the young person's interests. Where the claimant was under 16 at the time of the accident, the three-year limitation period begins on their 16th birthday rather than the date of the incident.
Does it matter that police are still investigating the incident?
A civil compensation claim is separate from any criminal investigation or prosecution. You do not need to wait for the police inquiry to conclude before beginning the claims process. Evidence gathered during the police investigation, including witness statements and dashcam footage, may however support a civil claim.
Will I have to go to court to get compensation?
The majority of personal injury claims in Scotland are resolved through negotiation and settle without going to court. Court proceedings are raised in some cases, but a final hearing before a judge is less common. Your legal representative would advise you on the most appropriate course of action based on the specific circumstances of your claim.
Based on reporting by Daily Record, 18 October 2026. All rights in the original report remain with the publisher.