New whiplash tariffs "offensive", say Association of Personal Injury Lawyers

Proposed whiplash tariffs would be a blunt instrument to deal with a problem that never existed, lawyers have said ahead of parliamentary debates next week.

"The proposed tariffs for whiplash injuries are derisory and offensive and will almost certainly leave people under-compensated," said Sam Elsby, president of the Association of Personal Injury Lawyers (APIL) a not-for-profit group, committed to helping injured people.

"The lowest tariff provides just £240 for pain and suffering that will affect an injured person for up-to three months - this is not anywhere near the appropriate level of compensation. Imagine if you are the parent of a small child that you can't pick up to comfort, or an athlete who can't compete, or a retiree who is unable to go out and about for those three months."

"Injured people are going to be taken aback when they have a crash and find out that their injury and the months of pain, discomfort, and stress are worth less than the cost of a new sofa," said Mr Elsby.

"Only the insurance industry will benefit from this new tariff. It allows insurers to save money at the expense of injured people who will no longer receive full and fair compensation."

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Notes to the editor: