New evidence about whiplash claims has been launched in Parliament. Based on independent research, The Whiplash Report 2012 dispels common myths about whiplash claims with the aim of clearing the way for sensible debate about the issue.
“The people who suffer these injuries are genuine,” APIL president Karl Tonks told MPs and peers at a House of Commons reception. “Honest claimants are not the problem – the problem is fraud, and fraud must be tackled by all sides working together if we are going to eliminate it.”
Among the research findings is the fact that 80% of whiplash sufferers either report their symptoms accurately or underplay them, and 90% of people seek a medical diagnosis.
The report also includes a ten-point plan to cut fraudulent claims out of the system. Research on the duration of whiplash symptoms, the number of people who actually claim damages and the approach of the insurance industry are all included in the report, as well as the impact of road congestion and improved car design on road crash injuries.