The UK government is currently in the process of reassessing the system for car accident compensation claims, which could make it quicker and simpler for claims to go through. Parliament have been debating the merits and disadvantages of the new scheme since proposals were submitted back in September 2009, and if approved, the system could be given the green light starting from April 2010.
How will the new scheme work?
The system under consideration at the moment will encompass the introduction of:
• Fixed amounts of compensation depending on the seriousness of injuries. Figures under discussion range from £1 to £10,000.
• Strict deadlines for both the victim and the defendant to submit and move forward with a personal injury compensation claim
• A streamlined administration process designed to alleviate the stress for injured claimants
In addition to these changes, the government is also considering a four-stage process:
1. Liability – determining who is responsible and to what degree
2. Compensation – An initial sum will be agreed upon and paid
3. Paper hearing – This will take place if there is a dispute or if an agreement about compensation cannot be agreed upon
4. Oral hearing – A more formal version of stage three, where a final compensation figure will be determined
The government is hoping that these improvements will speed up compensation claims, making the whole system simpler for everyone involved.
