Whiplash Compensation Reforms

The government has raised concerns over the increase in 'whiplash' claims and how Personal Injury claims are investigated.

Justice minister Lord Keen, speaking at the Association of Personal Injury Lawyers annual conference in Birmingham, addressed the issue of Personal Injury claims and compensation.

He estimated that road traffic accidents were approximately 70 % higher than in 2005/6 and went onto say that around 85% of these claims were for whiplash.

Lord Keen said:

"The level of compensation paid out in such claims is, in the government's view, out of all proportion to the genuine injury suffered, especially when balanced with the effect they have on premiums."

He further added:

"I am confident that these reforms will reduce the cost of litigation and tackle the continuing high number of whiplash claims, benefiting consumers through reduced motor insurance premiums."

Lord Keen made it clear that the government's intention is to extend the application of fixed recoverable costs. For whiplash claims, the introduction of a tariff will provide certainty as to the value of the claim.

If you have been injured in a road traffic accident, you may be entitled to compensation. Call our claims team on 0121 355 4700 to find out more.

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