Whiplash claim reform delayed one year to April 2020 MoJ confirms

The government has confirmed that reforms likely to have a dramatic effect on the personal injury sector has been delayed a year. Changes introduced by the Civil Liability Bill will 'fundamentally transform' the handling of low-value whiplash claims, the Ministry of Justice stated. 

 

The government responded to the justice select committee's report on the bill saying its revised timetable is to be ready for large-scale testing by October 2019 with the plan to implement in full in April 2020; Previous plans were to implement changes in April 2019.

 

Tariffs for fixed and reduced damages for RTA claims are amongst the reforms alongside a new £5000 small claims limit and the creation of an online system to enable claims to be handled without representation. 

 

The MoJ says: 'There will need to be extensive user testing in order to ensure that the system is easy to use for all user groups and that the guidance is clear.  We agree with the committee and our stakeholders that it is crucial that these reforms and the implementation of the online platform is done right rather than quickly.' 

 

The MoJ states it will constantly assess and scrutinise the performance of the new portal, improving guidance to support claimants and defendants. Employer liability and public liability claims are not in the scope of the new online platform. 

 

The MoJ response adds: 'The government is committed to control the reducing the number and costs of whiplash claims. These reforms ensure genuine claimants will continue to receive proportionate compensation for their injury and importantly will also dis-incentivise and control unmeritorious claims.' 

 

If you have been involved in an accident that wasn't your fault and would like confidential, expert advice then contact our legal team on 0203 206 1133