How to Make Car Accident Compensation Claims There are a number of aspects you must consider when filing an claim for car crash compensation. These include the suffering and pain as well as economic losses and loss of quality life. You have three years from the date of the accident to file a claim if you sustain a serious injury. The two most painful things in this world are suffering and pain Pain and suffering are not considered to be economic damages. This type of damage doesn't have a fixed dollar amount, and may be calculated differently