Damages in personal injury cases involving a minor whiplash are set to rise by 9 following changes incorporated into the latest edition of the Judicial Studies Board (JSB) Guidelines, according to an analysis conducted by specialist lawyers at insurance law firm Browne Jacobson.
The analysis shows that two of the major changes introduced into the recently published JSB Guidelines (11th Edition 2012) includes a re-categorisation of the term "whiplash" and increased awards.
The increase in awards will mean that awards where recovery from a personal injury is estimated at between a few months and a year will attract sums of between £1,500 and £3,100.
James Chapman, a solicitor at Browne Jacobson, said:
"We frequently advise insurers on whiplash injuries where recovery is predicted in a few months to a year. Awards typically range from £875 up to £2,850 but these changes will mean that the burden on insurers will increase by nine per cent on average.
"Unfortunately the bad news doesnt end here. From 1 April 2013 awards are due to increase by a further 10 following the Court of Appeal decision in Simmons v Castle without any firm light at the end of the tunnel on the proposed reduction in claimants costs as recommended in the Jackson report.
"However the latest edition of the JSB Guidelines does provide more detailed guidance on how to value whiplash claims which will be welcomed by the industry."
Released bi-annually, the JSB Guidelines are widely acknowledged as a key source of reference for personal injuries practitioners and other professionals working in the sector. They are designed to provide a clear and logical framework for the award assessment of PI damages.