Following the changes that came into effect on the 31^st May 2021, the Official Injury Claims Portal recently released figures showing that at least 45,718 claims have been submitted through the online Claims Portal between the 31^st May and the 31^st August 2021. Of those claims submitted, it was found that only 4,331 were from unrepresented claimants, meaning that the claim was submitted by people acting for themselves, which is what the portal was designed to do. The research also confirmed that 24,812 liability decisions have been provided, and 436 claims have reached settlement stage.

So what does this mean? It would appear that despite the new system being brought in for people to process their own claims, without the need for a solicitor, people are still turning to solicitors for assistance with their claim.

We have noticed that there has been a down turn in new enquiries from clients. We are concerned that the new system may be putting people off making a genuine claim. Whilst there are some changes, a solicitor will advise you accordingly and those who have been genuinely injured should not put off bringing a claim.

If you have been involved in a Road Traffic Accident and need advice or assistance, please contact one of our Personal Injury Team. We are still processing RTA claims whether the accident occurred before, or after, 31^st May 2021.

To find out more about the claims service visit :

https://www.officialinjuryclaim.org.uk/media/1157/guide-to-making-a-claim-version-20-april-2021.pdf