Social injustice: Reforms to the soft tissue injury (whiplash) claims process
Our response to the Government’s consultation on the soft tissue injury (whiplash) claims process and the reforms proposed were finalised and despatched at the beginning of January.
All those involved in personal injury work must now wait. If this Government really is in the pocket of the insurance industry, then changes to the small claims limit will undoubtedly follow. If this happens, there is only one sector of society which will gain from the reforms; namely, the shareholders in insurance companies.
Given that this Government is holding itself out as being a proponent for social justice, the hypocrisy of those in power becomes even more pointed and discernible in this context. Can you think of a more fundamental right than seeking compensation for being injured as a result of somebody’s careless actions? Why should an insurer of a careless driver or a careless employer be relieved of the burden of paying compensation? After all, the careless driver or careless employer have themselves paid a premium (usually compulsorily) for just such protection.
On any view, to suggest that social justice is being achieved by these reforms is utter claptrap.
For more information on any of the issues above, give one of our Personal Injury experts a call on 0113 232 1030 for a free, initial consultation.
