Frequently asked questions

Here you can find common questions about personal injury compensation claims, you can also contact us with any other questions.

info What's changing and why?
An injury compensation claim for a specific set of injuries (soft tissue/whiplash) can now only recover legal costs if it valued at least £5000. Previously, the minimum value was £1000. The changes aim to reduce claims fraud in this area but will mean claiming is difficult for those who do not have knowledge or understanding of how to get through the system. This is where Official Claims Assist comes in.
info Can I use the new self-service Official Injury Claim portal instead?
You can, but this option means as the claimant you are doing all the work and making all of the decisions throughout your claim. If your claim has value, it is worthwhile instructing us to help you on a No Win No Fee basis. This means if we do not win your claim you do not pay our legal fees.
info Are there any exceptions to these reforms?
Yes; vulnerable road users. Vulnerable road users include cyclists, motorcyclists, pedestrians and horse riders. What this means is that if as a vulnerable road user your personal injury claim is valued at less than £5000, you can still proceed as before 31 May 2021 and recover some legal costs if you instruct a solicitor.
info Why should I use Official Claims Assist?
We are a trading name of national law firm KLS Law, whose staff have over 25 years' experience in successfully handling all types of personal injury claims. Following the reforms after 31 May 2021, we are a top choice for legal expertise and friendly professionalism. We never cold call and in many instances can organise a triage appointment and physiotherapy for your injuries on the same day as your enquiry. There is also no obligation to instruct us when you make your first enquiry.
info What is 'whiplash' or a 'soft tissue injury'?
There are two main definitions:
(a) A sprain, strain, tear, rupture or lesser damage of a muscle, tendon or ligament in the neck, back or shoulder.
(b) An injury of soft tissue associated with a muscle, tendon or ligament in the neck, back or shoulder.
info How much compensation will I get for a soft tissue or whiplash injury?
The use of a fixed tariff of compensation for these types of injuries is set by the Government and is based on the duration of the injury. The amount of compensation an individual can now receive starts at £235 for an injury lasting up to 3 months, and rises to £3910 for an injury lasting two years.
info What sort of evidence of my injury claim do I need to supply?
Types of evidence that are useful include photographs of the accident and your injuries, a sketch depicting what happened, a police incident report, copies of accident logbook entries and details of any witnesses.