Be sure to secure the authorisation letter from the PIAB first.
You should shop around a few solicitors.
When you approach a solicitor indicate that you want a section 68 letter from them.
You need an
outline of the likely work involved.
For clarity, also ask specifically for an
estimate of the likely costs involved.
Look at this link for some background information on S. 68 letters
https://www.lawsociety.ie/Solicitor...The-Dos-And-Donts-Of-Section-68/#.XKHsRnlDGUk
If your wife's condition is not settling symptomatically you should
not rush to settle too soon.
Against this you need to watch time limits for instituting proceedings as they continue to run from the date of the accident.
BTW this may not have to go to court.
If your wife's injuries resolve to a point where it is safe to settle your solicitor can always negotiate with the other side's insurance company.
Something like this would need the professional services of a solicitor.
DO NOT be tempted to deal directly with the insurers.