Your Rights in 2024: Updates

As we begin 2024, it promises to be a pivotal time for the personal injury legal landscape. Especially for anyone who has experienced injuries or illnesses through no fault of their own.

Personal injury law is evolving and shifts in legislation could offer hope and justice for those who need it.

We outline some of the changes coming in 2024. Showing how it could affect the rights for people who’ve been affected.

Electric Scooters

The Department for Transport (DfT) is working on a research initiative to evaluate the safety and performance of electric scooters.

The primary objectives are to ensure the safety of e-scooter riders, improve usability for individuals with disabilities, and contribute to environmental conservation.

The project will continue until spring next year. While the DfT acknowledges the necessity of a Transport Bill to establish regulations for electric scooters, the timeline for the bill’s implementation remains uncertain.

Non-cosmetic Surgical Procedures

A consultation on licensing for non-cosmetic surgical procedures has now ended and we could see changes in 2024. In the proposed system, to be overseen by local authorities in England, practitioners must have a licence to conduct certain non-surgical cosmetic procedures. Additionally, the facilities where these procedures take place will also require licensing.

Further work is needed to establish the foundational principles of the scheme. Including education and training standards, infection control and cleanliness, indemnity requirements, and licensing fees.

Personal Injury Capacity Consultation

In December 2023, the Civil Justice Council (CJC) launched a public consultation into determining mental capacity in civil proceedings.

The consultation finishes in March and raises awareness of issues around capacity. As personal injury solicitors, we frequently assist clients who may face challenges in decision-making, often due to brain injuries or psychological trauma.

Court Fees

The Ministry of Justice (MoJ) plans to increase up to 202 court and tribunal fees by 10% from spring 2024. Court users will pay more for the services they use, which are mainly taxpayer-funded.

“We understand an increase in fees may be necessary to continue to help fund the courts and tribunal system, however, justice cannot be restricted to those with the means to pay. The court system should, in the main, be funded by central government as it benefits the whole of society,” said APIL president Jonathan Scarsbrook.

APIL also says if claimants are expected to pay higher court fees they should be entitled to a minimum level of service. With courts adhering to service level agreements, including time frames for hearings.

Personal Injury Discount Rate

The Personal Injury Discount Rate (PIDR) is a legal framework used to determine lump sum compensation for future financial loss in cases of serious personal injury. Typically those anticipated to have lasting impacts for years.

The Lord Chancellor is set to review the existing discount rate, beginning by July 15, 2024.

For more information visit the Ministry of Justice.

Clinical Negligence

In April 2024, fixed costs for clinical negligence claims of lower value will be introduced. The government blames it on the escalating legal costs incurred by claimants.

Research conducted by APIL reveals that lower-value clinical negligence claims are currently experiencing prolonged settlement times. According to APIL’s findings, the proposed changes are unnecessary, as controlling claim delays could have prevented the escalation in costs.

Sporting Injuries

Nearly 300 rugby union players are making claims against World Rugby Limited, Welsh Rugby Union, and England’s Rugby Football Union for brain injuries.

We will provide updates on the outcome of the hearing which is scheduled for April.

NV LEGAL

2024 will be an interesting year for personal injury solicitors and their clients. Our ability to adapt, embrace technology, and advocate for justice positions us well for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

If you would like further information on any of the issues covered contact us for a FREE no-obligation consultation. A solicitor, with extensive experience in personal injury cases will answer your query.

Call – 03308 281 587

Email – info@nvlegal.co.uk  

Website – nvlegal.co.uk  

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