You may be able to claim compensation through the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) if you have been injured as a result of a violent crime. Your CICA compensation is calculated under a government scheme, which is why there are many different aspects that can affect the value of your claim.
Learning how those aspects work can improve your claim’s outcome. Experienced lawyers in Liverpool can help you at this point. They can present your injuries and losses correctly from the very start.
How is CICA compensation calculated?
CICA uses a fixed tariff system to calculate your compensation. The scheme assigns a fixed value to every injury based on its type and seriousness. And as a result, it offers no flexibility like a civil personal injury claim does. You will not be arguing over figures or negotiating settlements.
This does not mean your claim’s value is set in stone. How your injury is categorised within the tariff is very important. Small differences in how your injury is described and how long your symptoms last can place it in a higher or lower tariff bracket. Lawyers who regularly deal with CICA claims can make sure your case receives the correct tariff level.
The seriousness of your injuries
The seriousness of your injuries also affects how much compensation you receive. More serious physical injuries usually attract higher awards under the tariff.
The scheme also takes psychological injuries into account. It can compensate you for conditions like post-traumatic stress disorder or anxiety as long as you provide good medical evidence. This could be a formal diagnosis or your treatment records.
Medical evidence is crucial at this stage because it paints a full picture of your injuries. Solicitors can make sure this evidence clearly links your injuries to the incident and shows their true impact on your life.
Multiple injuries and additional payments
CICA applies a specific formula if you have suffered more than one injury. It pays your highest-valued injury in full and applies reduced percentages to your second and third injuries. The tariff does not compensate for injuries beyond that point. Therefore, simply learning which of your injuries fall into the top three tariff categories can affect your final award.
In some cases, your claim can also include payments beyond the injury tariff. For example, loss of earnings can be available to you if your injuries have prevented you from working for a long period.
You can overlook these additional parts of your claim if you are unaware of them or lack sufficient supporting evidence. Lawyers experienced in CICA claims know what the scheme allows and can make sure no part of your entitlement is missed.
Talk to Stallard Solicitors to increase your CICA award
You are in the right place if you have been injured as a result of a violent crime. Contact Stallard Solicitors with any enquiries. Our team will get back in touch as soon as possible to discuss your claim and help you understand what compensation you may be entitled to.
