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Whiplash injury tariff increased for the first time since 2021 — News

The Lord Chancellor has uprated the whiplash injury tariff under the Civil Liability Act 2018 for the first time since the scheme came into force in May 2021. The new tariff applies to road traffic accident injuries sustained on or after 1 October 2026.

Under the tariff system, whiplash claims up to two years' duration are capped at fixed amounts set by statutory instrument, rather than decided by a judge in each case. The uprated figures increase awards by approximately 15% to reflect inflation since 2021. For example, a whiplash injury lasting between 3 and 6 months now attracts a tariff of £580 (up from £470).

All claims within the tariff must be brought through the Official Injury Claim (OIC) portal, which was developed under the supervision of the Ministry of Justice. Claimants who suffer both whiplash and non-whiplash injuries in the same accident can still have the non-whiplash element assessed by a court. The full tariff table is published by the Judiciary of England and Wales. Citizens Advice has a guide to making a personal injury claim through the portal.

This item summarises a legal development for general information only. It is not legal advice. Always check the official text and, for your own situation, consult a qualified lawyer.

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