Claim DefinitionsIn plain English.

A formal confirmation from the insurer that their policyholder was at fault (in whole or in part). This allows the claim to move forward to medical evidence and valuation. Also referred to as: "liability decision", "liability response".

When the insurer formally disputes that their policyholder was responsible for the accident. This does not end the claim — it triggers a dispute process within the OIC portal where evidence can be submitted and the matter escalated.

Where the insurer accepts some responsibility for the accident but disputes the full extent of fault.

An independent assessment of your injury prepared after examination. It records your symptoms, diagnosis and expected recovery period (prognosis). It forms the foundation of how your claim is valued. → See the Medical Stage

A medical assessment carried out by a qualified examiner who is independent of both the claimant and the insurer. The examiner's report determines the injury type, severity and prognosis — which directly sets the tariff value of the claim.

The medical estimate of how long your symptoms are expected to last. The prognosis period determines which compensation tariff band applies. The prognosis must accurately reflect your actual recovery experience. → See the Medical Stage

The fixed compensation scale set by government for certain whiplash and minor soft-tissue injuries. The tariff amount is based on your injury type and prognosis period. It is not the same as compensation decided by a court in more serious cases. → See Offers & Negotiation

Compensation for pain, suffering and loss of amenity caused by the injury itself. In OIC claims, this is usually the tariff amount.

Financial losses caused by the accident — such as lost earnings, travel costs or treatment expenses. These are separate from the injury tariff and must be evidenced where possible.

Financial losses suffered because the claimant was unable to work (or could only work reduced hours) as a direct result of their injuries. This is a form of special damage and is recoverable on top of the tariff-based injury payment.

A proposal made by the insurer to resolve the claim. It may include general damages, special damages, or both. It is not binding unless you accept it.

A revised settlement amount proposed in response to an insurer's offer. Negotiation through offers and counter-offers is a normal part of the process.

The agreement that ends the claim. Once a settlement offer is accepted through the OIC portal, the claim is closed and payment is made (typically within 7–14 days). A settled claim cannot be reopened.

A structured breakdown of financial losses claimed as part of the case, supported by receipts or evidence where available.

The legal time limit for starting a claim. In most cases, this is three years from the date of the accident. For claimants who were under 18, it runs from their 18th birthday. Missing the limitation period normally prevents a claim from being brought. → Calculate your deadline

The Official Injury Claim portal — the online system used for managing certain road traffic injury claims in England and Wales. It was introduced in 2021 and applies primarily to whiplash and minor soft tissue injury claims with a value below £5,000. → Understand your stage

The initial document submitted through the OIC portal that formally starts the claims process. It sets out basic details of the accident, the parties involved and the nature of the injury. Submitting the notification starts the 30 working day liability clock.

The government-approved system used to source independent medical experts for whiplash and minor injury claims.

An organisation approved under the Official Injury Claim process to arrange independent medical examinations. The examiner they arrange is independent — not working for the insurer or the claimant.

If agreement cannot be reached in the portal, the claim may proceed to the small claims court process. This is a formal legal route for resolving disputes, designed to be accessible without legal representation.

Where the injured party is found to have contributed to their own injuries through their own actions. If accepted, the compensation is reduced by a percentage reflecting the claimant's share of responsibility.

An injury to the soft tissues of the neck caused by a sudden, sharp movement of the head — typically in a rear-end collision. Whiplash is the most common injury type in road traffic accident claims and the primary injury covered by the OIC tariff scheme.

Injury to muscles, tendons, or ligaments — as opposed to bones. Most OIC tariff claims involve soft tissue injuries to the neck and/or back.

A funding arrangement where a solicitor agrees to represent a claimant without charging upfront fees. If the claim is unsuccessful, the claimant pays nothing. If successful, a success fee (capped by law) is payable.

Business days (Monday to Friday), excluding UK public holidays. Timescales in the OIC process are counted in working days — not calendar days. The liability decision window, for example, is 30 working days — approximately six calendar weeks.

The other driver (or party) whose negligence caused the accident. "Third party insurer" refers to their insurance company, which is responsible for handling and paying the claim.

The person who has been injured and is making the claim for compensation. In the OIC process, the claimant is the individual navigating the portal — not a solicitor acting on their behalf, unless one has been instructed.

Out-of-pocket expenses incurred in pursuing a claim, such as medical report fees. In the OIC portal, the insurer is generally required to pay certain fixed disbursements where liability is admitted.