Expert Whiplash Injury Lawyers
At Gavin Edmondson Solicitors, our experienced whiplash claim solicitors help clients recover damages for medical costs, lost income, and the wider impact of their injury. We aim to make the claims process as straightforward as possible, allowing you to focus on your recovery.
Why Choose Us for Whiplash Claims?
Whiplash claims are not always simple. New laws introduced in 2021 have changed the way minor whiplash injuries are valued, and claims now follow a slightly different process depending on the severity of the injury and who was at fault. Having a specialist whiplash injury solicitor on your side can make the difference between receiving the minimum tariff and securing full compensation that reflects your situation.
We are experts in navigating the Official Injury Claim (OIC) portal and more serious whiplash cases that fall outside of it. Most of our whiplash claims are run on a No Win, No Fee basis, meaning you don’t pay anything unless your case succeeds.
What Causes Whiplash?
Whiplash most often results from rear-end car collisions, but it can happen in many different ways. Accidents involving buses, taxis, or cyclists can all lead to sudden jolts that cause neck injuries. Sometimes, even a seemingly minor bump can trigger severe pain and restricted movement.
Symptoms and Impact of Whiplash
Whiplash symptoms may appear immediately, but in many cases they develop hours or even days after the accident. Common issues include:
- Neck pain and stiffness
- Reduced movement or difficulty turning the head
- Headaches and dizziness
- Shoulder and back pain
- Tingling, numbness, or weakness in the arms
While some people recover within weeks, others experience ongoing pain, sleep disruption, and long-term limitations in daily life. These effects can have a real impact on work, family life, and general wellbeing — all of which should be taken into account when assessing compensation.
What Compensation Can Cover
The amount you can claim for whiplash depends on the severity of the injury, its duration, and any additional financial losses. Compensation may cover:
- General damages for pain, suffering, and loss of amenity
- Medical treatment, physiotherapy, and rehabilitation costs
- Lost income if you are unable to work
- Travel expenses linked to treatment or recovery
- Costs of care and support during your recovery
We ensure your claim reflects both your immediate needs and the longer-term impact of your injury.
How to Make a Whiplash Claim
The claims process usually begins with a free consultation, where we review the circumstances of your accident and explain your options. If your case qualifies for the OIC portal, we will guide you through it to ensure the claim is prepared properly. If your injuries are more serious, we will handle the case directly against the responsible party’s insurer.
We gather the necessary evidence, including medical reports, accident details, and any witness statements, to support your case. Our solicitors then deal with the insurer on your behalf, negotiating to achieve the best possible outcome. If a fair settlement cannot be agreed, we are ready to represent you in court.
How Much Compensation Could I Get for A Whiplash Claim?
The amount of compensation you might be entitled to depends on:
- When your accident took place
- How recovery takes,
- Whether you have any accompanying anxiety or other minor psychological symptoms, as a result of your accident.
If your accident took place on or after 31st May 2025, the amount of compensation awarded for whiplash, ranges from a minimum of £275 to a maximum payout of £4,830.
For example, people often ask ‘How much is a whiplash claim worth after 6 months?’ — under the tariff system, if your whiplash symptoms last about 6 months, this is between £565 and £595 depending on whether you suffered from psychological symptoms.
| Duration Of Injury | Lower Tariff (without psychological injuries) | Upper Tariff (with psychological injuries) |
|---|---|---|
| Not more than 3 months | £275 | £300 |
| More than 3 months but not more than 6 months | £565 | £595 |
| More than 6 months but not more than 9 months | £965 | £1,025 |
| More than 9 months but not more than 12 months | £1,510 | £1,595 |
| More than 12 months but not more than 15 months | £2,335 | £2,435 |
| More than 15 months but not more than 18 months | £3,445 | £3,550 |
| More than 18 months but not more than 24 months | £4,830 | £4,975 |
Time Limits for Claims
As with most personal injury cases, you generally have three years from the date of the accident to make a whiplash claim. Exceptions apply for children or people lacking mental capacity. Seeking advice quickly helps preserve evidence and strengthens your case.
Frequently Asked Questions About Taxi and Uber Accident Claims
Yes. Whiplash can result from low-speed collisions, and you may still be entitled to compensation.
Yes. A medical assessment is required to prove the extent of your injury and support your claim. We can arrange this for you.
Under the OIC system, minor whiplash claims are awarded a fixed tariff based on how long symptoms last. More serious injuries or cases involving financial losses can lead to higher awards.
No. Most whiplash claims are handled on a No Win, No Fee basis, so you only pay if your claim is successful.
Straightforward whiplash claims may settle in a few months if liability is clear. More complex cases, or those involving additional injuries and financial losses, can take longer.
You can use the Official Injury Claim (OIC) portal without legal representation, but many people find the process confusing. Having a solicitor ensures your claim is properly valued, all losses are included and you get the amount of compensation you deserve.
You may still be able to claim compensation if you were partly responsible for the accident. In these cases, your award may be reduced to reflect your share of responsibility.
Yes. The OIC tariff sets minimum amounts based on the length of your symptoms. However, additional losses (like lost wages or treatment costs) can increase the overall compensation.
Yes, you may still be entitled to compensation. However, the insurer may argue that not wearing a seatbelt contributed to your injuries, which could reduce your payout.
If your condition deteriorates, further medical evidence can be obtained, and your claim can be adjusted to reflect the more serious impact.
Yes, children can bring whiplash claims, and the tariff system applies to them too. A parent or guardian (litigation friend) will usually bring the claim on their behalf.
Yes. Claims against uninsured or untraced drivers can be made through the Motor Insurers’ Bureau (MIB), and we can handle the process for you.
Most whiplash claims are settled out of court. You would only need to attend if the insurer disputes liability or refuses a fair settlement.
Yes. Anxiety, travel nerves, or even PTSD can sometimes accompany whiplash injuries. These can form part of your compensation claim if supported by medical evidence.
Start Your Whiplash Claim Today
We help clients across the UK, including Cheshire, Manchester, Liverpool, Birmingham, and London.
If you are suffering from whiplash after an accident, don’t delay in seeking advice. Our personal injury solicitors will guide you through the process and fight for the compensation you deserve.