MP David Ward: Fraudulent Whiplash Compensation Claims Increase Insurance Premiums

Whiplash compensation claims are increasing car insurance premiums, an MP has suggested.

During the House of Commons’ Justice Question Time, Bradford East MP David Ward asked ministers what is being done to minimise the number and cost of whiplash personal injury claims.

He noted that in 2011 to 2012, there was a 5% national growth in the number of third party personal injury claims, although the number of motor vehicle accidents fell. The Institute and Faculty and Actuaries has said that as many as 60% of whiplash compensation claims are fraudulent, exaggerated or otherwise misrepresented.

This is causing car insurance premiums to rise, Mr Ward added.

The MP called on the Justice Department to review the three-year statute of limitations surrounding whiplash injuries, claiming this could help to support genuine personal injury claimants while helping to prevent fraudulent claims.

Bradford in particular has a disproportionately high number of whiplash claims. Despite just having 0.85% of the UK’s population, nearly 2% of whiplash claims originate from the city.

Whiplash compensation claims

Whiplash occurs when the ligaments and tendons in the neck are damaged. This occurs when the head is suddenly jolted around, such as in a motor vehicle accident. Symptoms can take up to 12 hours to develop and the condition can be chronic, causing lifelong problems.

Although most whiplash personal injuries are sustained in road accidents, they can also occur following slips, trips and falls, in sports accidents or in accidents at work.

Make a whiplash compensation claim

If you want to claim compensation for whiplash injuries, then you should start the process as quickly as possible. Legislative change may make it harder for you to make a claim in the future.

Clearwater Solicitors have years of experience dealing with claims just like yours. Contact our personal injury solicitors for free advice by dialling 08000 430 430 or filling in our online enquiry form.