Whiplash Compensation Amounts in 2026
The whiplash compensation system changed significantly in May 2021 with the introduction of fixed tariff amounts. Here's what you can expect to receive for a whiplash claim in 2026.
The Whiplash Tariff
For road traffic accident whiplash injuries lasting up to 2 years, compensation is now set by law:
| Injury Duration | Compensation Amount |
|---|---|
| 0-3 months | £240 |
| 3-6 months | £495 |
| 6-9 months | £840 |
| 9-12 months | £1,320 |
| 12-15 months | £2,040 |
| 15-18 months | £3,005 |
| 18-24 months | £4,215 |
Minor Psychological Injuries
If you also suffer minor psychological injuries (like anxiety about driving), the tariff increases:
| Injury Duration | Compensation Amount |
|---|---|
| 0-3 months | £520 |
| 3-6 months | £1,080 |
| 6-9 months | £1,825 |
| 9-12 months | £2,870 |
| 12-15 months | £4,345 |
| 15-18 months | £6,240 |
| 18-24 months | £8,640 |
Uplift for Exceptional Circumstances
The tariff can be increased by up to 20% for exceptional circumstances, such as:
- Particularly severe pain
- Significant impact on daily activities
- Vulnerability of the claimant
When the Tariff Doesn't Apply
The fixed tariff doesn't apply if:
- Whiplash lasts more than 2 years
- The accident wasn't a road traffic accident
- You have other, more serious injuries
- You're a vulnerable road user (cyclist, pedestrian, motorcyclist)
In these cases, you may receive significantly more compensation.
Additional Damages
On top of the tariff amount, you can also claim:
- Lost earnings - If you've missed work
- Travel expenses - Getting to medical appointments
- Medical costs - Treatment, physiotherapy, medication
- Care costs - If someone had to help you
- Vehicle damage - Separate claim for repairs
How is Whiplash Duration Determined?
You'll need a medical report from an accredited medical expert (MedCo). They will:
- Examine you
- Review your medical records
- Provide a prognosis of how long symptoms will last
Example Calculations
Example 1: Minor Whiplash
- Duration: 4 months
- Tariff: £495
- Lost earnings: £300
- Total: £795
Example 2: Moderate Whiplash with Anxiety
- Duration: 10 months with psychological symptoms
- Tariff: £2,870
- Lost earnings: £2,000
- Travel costs: £150
- Physiotherapy: £300
- Total: £5,320
Making a Claim
For claims under £5,000, you can use the Official Injury Claim portal yourself, or instruct a solicitor. For larger or more complex claims, legal advice is recommended.
Get Expert Help
MCR Solicitors handles whiplash claims on a no win no fee basis. Contact us on 0161 466 1280 for a free assessment.
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