Claim Criminal Injuries Compensation For Fractured Ulna (Forearm Bone)
A fractured ulna—one of the two long bones in the forearm—can be an extremely debilitating injury that affects not only your physical health but also your emotional well-being and ability to perform everyday activities. The ulna works in tandem with the radius to allow wrist rotation, lifting, and stabilisation of the arm. When fractured, it can lead to severe pain, swelling, immobility, and complications such as nerve damage or reduced grip strength. Depending on where the break occurs—whether near the wrist (distal), the central shaft (mid-shaft), or close to the elbow (proximal)—the injury may interfere with different aspects of movement and function.
These types of injuries are especially traumatic when caused by a violent criminal act. Victims may have been attacked with a weapon, caught in a physical altercation, or involved in a domestic abuse situation that resulted in the fracture. In such cases, the psychological toll of the incident can be just as damaging as the physical consequences.
Understanding Fractured Ulna (Forearm Bone) Injuries and Common Causes of Fractured Ulna (Forearm Bone) Injuries
The ulna is the longer and more prominent of the two forearm bones, running alongside the radius and extending from the elbow to the wrist on the side opposite the thumb. It is a critical component of upper limb function, contributing to forearm stability, elbow joint movement, and wrist articulation. During violent encounters, especially when a person instinctively lifts their arm to shield themselves from harm, the ulna often bears the brunt of the force. This makes it highly susceptible to fractures caused by direct trauma.
When the ulna is fractured due to a criminal incident, the consequences can be severe. Victims may experience acute pain, bruising, swelling, and limited ability to rotate or lift the arm. In some cases, the injury can disrupt nerve pathways or blood flow, leading to numbness, weakness, or long-term functional limitations. Common causes of fractured ulna injuries in violent crime scenarios include:
- Blunt force trauma during an assault: Offenders using metal bars, wooden bats, bricks, or other heavy objects often strike the victim’s forearm, resulting in mid-shaft or comminuted fractures.
- Defensive injuries: When an individual raises their arm to protect their face or upper body during an attack, the ulna may absorb the impact, leading to a break.
- Assaults that lead to falls: Victims who are shoved or knocked down might land on an outstretched arm, fracturing the ulna in combination with the wrist or elbow.
- Physical abuse in domestic settings: Repeated incidents of violence can result in multiple stress fractures or more complex injuries from prolonged trauma.
- Gang attacks or street violence: These often involve targeted blows to disable or intimidate the victim, resulting in fractures to the arms or hands.
Ulna fractures can present in several different forms depending on the nature of the trauma:
- Distal ulna fractures: Occur near the wrist and may affect grip strength or wrist stability.
- Mid-shaft ulna fractures: Common in defensive injuries, often requiring surgical fixation with rods or plates.
- Proximal ulna fractures: Located near the elbow, impacting elbow extension and forearm rotation.
- Comminuted fractures: Characterised by the bone breaking into several pieces, often due to high-impact trauma.
- Open (compound) fractures: Where the bone protrudes through the skin, significantly increasing the risk of infection and prolonged recovery times.
Treatment strategies for ulna fractures vary based on severity. Minor fractures may heal with immobilisation using a cast or splint, while more complex cases demand surgical intervention followed by rehabilitation. Full recovery can take weeks to months, and in some instances, complications such as joint stiffness, limited range of motion, or chronic pain may persist. These factors play a vital role in determining compensation under the CICA scheme.
Eligibility Criteria to Make a CICA Claim for Fractured Ulna (Forearm Bone)
If you’ve suffered a fractured ulna as a result of a criminal assault or other violent incident, you may be entitled to claim compensation from the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA). However, to qualify, your case must satisfy several eligibility requirements outlined by the scheme. It’s important to understand that a successful claim does not depend on the offender being identified or convicted—CICA’s focus is on the circumstances of the crime and your cooperation as a victim. To be eligible for a CICA award, the following conditions must generally be met:
- The injury must result from a violent criminal act that took place within England, Scotland, or Wales.
- The crime must be reported to the police as soon as reasonably practicable, ideally within 48 hours. If reporting was delayed, you will need to provide a valid reason (e.g. trauma, fear, or other personal circumstances).
- You must provide full assistance to the police throughout their investigation, even if no charges are brought or the suspect is not caught.
- Your CICA application must be submitted within two years of the incident. Exceptions may apply if the claimant is a minor or suffered mental health difficulties preventing timely submission.
- Your injury must meet the minimum severity outlined in the CICA tariff. A fractured ulna qualifies if it leads to at least a substantial recovery period or long-term complications.
- You must not have contributed to the offence through aggression, provocation, or unlawful behaviour.
- You must not have any unspent serious criminal convictions. These could lead to your claim being reduced or rejected altogether depending on the nature of the conviction.
Providing comprehensive documentation—including police reports, medical records, and any supporting statements—will help CICA evaluate your case. The strength of your evidence and your adherence to the scheme’s criteria play a major role in the success and value of your claim.
How Much Compensation You Can Receive for Fractured Ulna (Forearm Bone)?
Our cica claim calculator in the main menu will help you with estimating the potential compensation that may be paid in respect to your claim. However, be aware that figures do vary considerably depending upon the nature (severity) of the injury and the impact on your daily life, period of suffering and whether any mental harm has been caused.
CICA calculates compensation using a structured tariff system that outlines fixed payments based on the type and severity of the injury. For a fractured ulna, the exact compensation amount is determined by various factors, including whether the injury affected one or both arms, the extent of recovery, the presence of long-term complications such as nerve damage or loss of mobility, and whether the dominant arm is involved. More serious injuries that result in significant disability or permanent functional limitations tend to qualify for higher awards. Current CICA tariff estimates for fractured ulna injuries include:
- £1,500 – For a fracture in one forearm where there is a substantial recovery and minimal long-term impact.
- £3,500 – For a fracture in one forearm where significant disability persists, such as reduced range of motion, weakness, or ongoing pain.
- £6,200 – When both forearms are fractured, but the victim makes a substantial recovery.
- £11,000 – For bilateral ulna fractures where continuing disability affects both arms, impacting grip strength, mobility, or daily function.
In some cases, where the injury leads to loss of function in the dominant hand or arm, or where multiple surgeries and prolonged rehabilitation are required, additional compensation may be available under higher-tier categories such as total loss of use or permanent impaired grip.
Additional Compensation You May Be Entitled To
Besides the core award for the fractured bone, CICA recognises that injuries sustained through violent crime can have broader effects. Victims may be entitled to further compensation if the injury affects their mental health, ability to work, or incurs additional recovery costs.
- Mental health injuries: If the event caused or worsened conditions like anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), you could receive a separate award. A formal diagnosis from a registered mental health professional is required.
- Loss of earnings: If you’re unable to return to work for 28 weeks or more because of your injury, and you can provide documented proof of income loss (e.g. payslips or a letter from your employer), you may qualify for financial compensation.
- Special expenses: You can claim for necessary and injury-related costs not covered by the NHS or other public services. These might include:
- Medical or mobility aids (e.g. wrist braces, ergonomic devices)
- Home adaptations to accommodate limited mobility
- Paid assistance or caregiving support during recovery
- Private medical treatment if NHS services were unavailable or delayed
- Travel costs related to medical care or therapy sessions
All additional claims must be supported with receipts, invoices, or referrals. Submitting this evidence will help ensure your total compensation accurately reflects the full impact of your injury.
Understanding Fracture Ulna (Forearm Bone) and Different Types of Fracture Ulna (Forearm Bone)
The ulna plays a critical role in the structure and movement of the forearm, working in conjunction with the radius to provide stability, rotation, and support for everyday functions. A fracture to the ulna, especially resulting from a violent act, can lead to substantial disruption in physical function and long-term impairment. Such injuries often have a profound impact on a person’s quality of life, limiting their ability to perform daily tasks and engage in employment or physical activity. When assessing a claim, the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) examines several key factors—such as the nature of the fracture, the method of treatment, and whether there is any ongoing disability—to determine a fair compensation amount. Several types of ulna fractures are commonly seen in violent crime cases and may qualify for CICA compensation:
- Distal ulna fracture: Occurring near the wrist, this type of fracture often leads to reduced stability of the wrist joint. It can significantly affect tasks that require precision, such as writing, typing, or buttoning clothes. Victims may also experience lingering stiffness or chronic discomfort.
- Mid-shaft ulna fracture: This break in the central section of the bone is frequently associated with direct trauma, such as defensive injuries where the victim raised their arm to protect themselves. Treatment typically involves immobilisation or surgery, and rehabilitation may take months to restore full strength.
- Proximal ulna fracture: Located near the elbow, these injuries can severely restrict forearm rotation and elbow extension, making everyday actions like opening doors or lifting objects particularly challenging. Such fractures often necessitate long-term physiotherapy.
- Comminuted fracture: In this severe form, the bone is shattered into three or more fragments. These fractures usually result from forceful impacts, such as weapon-related assaults, and often lead to complex recovery journeys with heightened risk of permanent loss of function.
- Compound (open) fracture: This dangerous fracture involves the bone breaking through the skin, which significantly increases the chance of infection and complicates healing. Victims may require multiple surgical procedures, extended hospital stays, and long-term antibiotic therapy as part of their recovery process.
The long-term outcome of a fractured ulna varies significantly based on the location and severity of the break, the victim’s access to timely medical care, and whether the dominant or non-dominant arm is affected. In some cases, individuals are left with chronic pain, impaired coordination, or permanent limitations in mobility. These residual effects are considered by CICA when determining the appropriate compensation, especially where the injury leads to an inability to work or requires long-term treatment and rehabilitation.
Essential Evidence to Support a CICA Claim for Fractured Ulna (Forearm Bone)
Creating a compelling and successful CICA claim for a fractured ulna requires submitting clear, consistent, and well-organised evidence that supports both the nature of the injury and the context in which it occurred. The Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority bases its decisions on the balance of probabilities, so the more persuasive and well-documented your case is, the greater your chance of receiving a full and fair award. Key evidence that should be included in your CICA application for a fractured ulna includes:
- Official police report and crime reference number: This document proves that the crime was officially reported and treated as a violent incident. It should detail when, where, and how the crime occurred and confirm your cooperation with the investigation.
- Comprehensive medical records: These should include A&E notes, imaging scans (X-rays, MRIs), treatment summaries, discharge documentation, and follow-up consultations. Consistent records showing diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis help validate the injury.
- Orthopaedic and surgical specialist reports: If you received care from a bone specialist or underwent surgery, reports confirming the long-term effects, surgical outcomes, and future mobility limitations will strengthen your claim.
- Personal impact statement: Provide a detailed, honest account of how the injury has changed your life. Include specific examples—such as difficulties using cutlery, driving, lifting your child, or returning to work—and how these limitations have affected your mental and emotional wellbeing.
- Third-party testimonies: Written statements from employers, colleagues, carers, or family members can add important insight into how the injury has affected your independence, work life, or household responsibilities.
CICA values consistent, credible, and professionally supported documentation. Ensure all reports are dated, signed, and ideally on official letterhead. Inconsistencies between your written statement and the medical or police reports can delay or weaken your claim, so review everything carefully before submission.
Financial Losses and Special Expenses You May Be Able to Claim
Fractured ulna injuries can have far-reaching financial implications, particularly when the trauma is severe enough to interrupt employment, require prolonged recovery time, or necessitate additional support in daily living. The Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) recognises that victims may face unexpected costs and offers the opportunity to claim for special expenses and loss of earnings in qualifying cases. These financial awards aim to help victims maintain stability and access the care they need during and after recovery. Examples of eligible financial losses and expenses include:
- Medical equipment and rehabilitation aids: Costs for medically recommended braces, supports, custom splints, and ergonomic devices that assist with arm and wrist function can be claimed if not provided by the NHS.
- Essential home adaptations: Items or modifications to improve accessibility—such as lever-style door handles, adjustable chairs, or specialised kitchen utensils designed for one-handed use—may be reimbursed if prescribed or deemed necessary due to the injury.
- Private therapy or medical services: In cases where NHS treatment is delayed or unavailable, CICA may cover costs for private physiotherapy, orthopaedic reviews, or specialist consultations.
- Paid assistance and care support: If you need domestic help, personal care, or childcare support as a direct result of your injury, these services may be included under special expenses—provided that they’re documented and medically justified.
- Travel and transportation: Reasonable costs for attending medical appointments, therapy sessions, or specialist clinics may be claimed, including mileage or public transport receipts.
- Loss of earnings: Victims who are unable to work for more than 28 consecutive weeks due to the injury may be eligible to claim lost income. Supporting documents such as payslips, tax records, or an employer’s letter confirming time off are required to validate this claim.
For each of these expenses to be reimbursed, they must be reasonable, necessary, and directly attributable to the injury. CICA requires receipts, invoices, or referrals from a healthcare professional to support any claim. Ensuring all documents are well-organised and clearly linked to your injury will improve the strength and clarity of your compensation application.
Emotional and Psychological Impact of a Fractured Ulna
Psychological trauma often accompanies physical injuries sustained during violent crimes, and a fractured ulna is no exception. The aftermath of such an attack can severely affect a person’s mental wellbeing, especially when the injury limits their ability to live independently, maintain employment, or participate in daily life without discomfort. The sense of vulnerability, coupled with the sudden disruption to routine and independence, frequently leads to emotional distress that can linger long after the physical wounds have healed.
In many cases, victims report heightened levels of fear, frustration, or helplessness as they navigate life with a temporary or permanent disability. These emotional challenges can interfere with sleep, personal relationships, work life, and overall quality of life. Recognising this, the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) allows victims to claim additional compensation for mental health conditions directly linked to the trauma of the crime. Common psychological conditions that may arise from fractured ulna injuries include:
- Clinical depression: Stemming from long-term pain, loss of mobility, or the inability to return to previous routines and hobbies.
- Generalised anxiety or social anxiety: A constant fear of encountering danger again, particularly in public or unfamiliar environments.
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Marked by flashbacks, nightmares, and hypervigilance, especially in cases where the crime was particularly violent or traumatic.
- Sleep disorders or panic attacks: Often triggered by the trauma or fear associated with the event, leading to disrupted rest and ongoing emotional instability.
To claim psychological injury compensation from CICA, the condition must be formally diagnosed by a psychiatrist or clinical psychologist. Compensation amounts can vary, with awards reaching up to £27,000 depending on the diagnosis, its severity, and the duration of symptoms. Submitting professional assessments, treatment records, and any related therapy notes will help strengthen your case and support your claim for the emotional consequences of your injury.
Long-Term Medical and Lifestyle Adjustments
In more severe cases, a fractured ulna sustained in a violent crime can lead to long-term or even permanent disabilities. These outcomes may include persistent pain, reduced mobility, nerve damage, or stiffness that limits forearm and wrist function. When surgical treatment fails to fully restore movement, or complications such as post-operative infections, joint contractures, or chronic pain syndromes arise, the impact on day-to-day life can be profound. Victims may no longer be able to carry out their regular job duties, engage in household tasks, or participate in leisure activities that require strength or dexterity.
CICA takes these long-term limitations into account when determining the level of compensation, especially when the injury requires significant medical follow-up or causes a permanent change in lifestyle. Long-term medical and lifestyle considerations that can increase your compensation award include:
- Ongoing physiotherapy or occupational therapy: Required to maintain or improve function in the affected arm and minimise long-term stiffness or pain.
- Reconstructive or follow-up surgeries: Some victims may need corrective surgery if initial treatment fails, or if hardware such as plates or screws must be removed or replaced.
- Use of assistive devices or ergonomic tools: These may include one-handed keyboards, lifting aids, or adapted home appliances that compensate for physical limitations.
- Vocational rehabilitation or retraining: If you’re unable to return to your previous employment, you may require support to transition to a different job that accommodates your injury.
- Medical documentation confirming lasting disability: Letters from orthopaedic consultants, physical therapists, or general practitioners noting ongoing impairments are essential for justifying higher awards.
Presenting a full picture of the medical and functional consequences of your injury through treatment records, independent assessments, and rehabilitation reports will support your application and help ensure that your CICA compensation accurately reflects the lasting impact of your fractured ulna.
Additional Losses You Can Claim
Loss of Earnings – If your injury caused you to be unable to work for more than 28 weeks, you may be eligible for compensation from the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) for lost earnings. To qualify, you must be able to demonstrate that you had a consistent and regular income before the injury. This could include proof of full-time employment, self-employment, or any other verifiable source of income. CICA will consider your pre-injury income levels to calculate the compensation. This can be especially crucial if the injury significantly impacted your financial stability and your ability to support yourself or your family.
Psychological Trauma – If your injury led to psychological trauma such as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), depression, or anxiety, you may be entitled to additional compensation. These mental health conditions can have a long-term impact on your well-being, and CICA recognises the importance of supporting victims of crime with emotional and psychological support. To qualify for compensation for psychological trauma, you will need to provide medical evidence of the diagnosis from a qualified mental health professional. The severity of your condition and the impact on your daily life will be taken into account when determining the amount of compensation.
Special Expenses – If your injury results in additional needs, such as mobility aids or home adaptations, CICA may compensate you for these “special expenses.” However, there is an important criterion: you must have been unable to work for at least 28 weeks as a result of your injury. This compensation is meant to help cover the costs of any special equipment or alterations to your living space that are necessary for you to maintain a reasonable quality of life after the injury. This can include items like wheelchairs, prosthetics, home modifications (such as ramps or stairlifts), or any other equipment that helps you with mobility or daily activities. The claim must be substantiated by proof of these expenses and how they relate to your injury.
- Report the Crime Immediately – Delays in reporting the crime can weaken your claim, so notify the police as soon as possible. If there is a valid reason for a delay, such as being medically incapacitated or facing threats from the perpetrator, you must provide evidence to support your explanation.
- Provide Strong Medical Evidence – Ensure all medical reports, X-rays, and surgical records clearly detail your injury, the severity of the fracture, and its long-term effects. A medical professional’s prognosis regarding mobility limitations, future treatments, and rehabilitation needs can strengthen your claim.
- Keep Financial Records and Document Expenses – If you have lost earnings or incurred medical expenses due to your injury, retain all relevant documentation. You may be able to claim special expenses for:
- Loss of income due to inability to work;
- Mobility aids such as crutches or wheelchairs;
- Home modifications (e.g., stairlifts or handrails);
- Ongoing physiotherapy or rehabilitation costs;
- Travel costs for medical appointments;
- Costs of personal care if you need assistance with daily activities.
- Be Consistent with Your Statements – Ensure your statements to the police, medical professionals, and CICA are aligned. Discrepancies in accounts of how the injury occurred or differences in timelines may raise questions that could delay or reduce your compensation.
- Seek Legal Assistance If Necessary – If your case is complex, involves long-term disability, or was initially rejected, consulting a solicitor who specialises in CICA claims may help strengthen your application. Legal professionals can assist in gathering additional evidence, drafting appeals, and negotiating a fair settlement.
Criminal Injuries Compensation Basic Eligibility Requirements:
You need to meet some basic requirements before you can claim compensation from CICA
- Time Limit: There is a two-year time limit for making a CICA claim for compensation under the scheme, although exceptions may be made in cases where the injury was not immediately apparent or where the victim was a child at the time of the crime. Exceptions may be made for historic sexual abuse cases else you should have a good reason for delay in making a claim.
- Connection Between Injury & Crime: The injuries you are claiming for must have been sustained as a direct result of a crime of violence and you are a blameless victim.
- Reporting the Crime: The crime must have been reported to the police as soon as is reasonably practicable and you do not drop the charges. The victim must have cooperated with the police investigation and prosecution. CICA does not consider whether an assailant is prosecuted or not.
- Residency: To be eligible for compensation under the CICA scheme, the incident must have happened in England, Scotland or Wales and victim must have been resident in the UK at the time of the crime.
- Behaviour of The Victim: The victim’s behaviour must not have contributed to the injury. In certain circumstances, compensation may still be payable even if the victim’s behaviour contributed to the injury, but this will be assessed by CICA on a case-by-case basis.
- Criminal Convictions: In some cases, compensation may be reduced or refused if the victim has an unspent criminal record.
- Injuries Before 1979 (the “same roof” rule): Until 2019, victims injured before 1 October 1979 by an attacker they lived with could not claim. That restriction was abolished in June 2019, so if you were previously refused compensation for this reason you may now be able to apply.
If you are considering making a compensation claim for your injuries, it’s always best to consult with a solicitor or the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) to check your eligibility to make a claim. You can call us or request a free callback for a free initial consultation. We take all CICA cases on a No Win, No Fee basis. This means you don’t need to pay us anything if we can’t secure any compensation.
What is Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme?
The Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme in the UK is a government-run program that provides financial compensation to individuals who have been physically or mentally injured as a result of violent crime. The compensation is paid to those who have suffered injury and can demonstrate that the injury was sustained as a direct result of a crime of violence.
To be eligible for compensation, the crime must have been reported to the police and the victim must have cooperated with the police investigation and prosecution. The amount of compensation awarded is based on a tariff system and can range from a few hundred to several thousand pounds, depending on the severity of the injury and other factors.
The purpose of this scheme is to provide financial support to victims of violent crime who have been physically or mentally injured as a result of the crime. The compensation is intended to help cover the cost of medical expenses (which are not covered by NHS or recoverable from any other source), lost income, and other expenses related to the injury.
What Payments Are Available From The Scheme?
CICA will consider claims for the following injuries, medical conditions and special expenses:
- mental or physical injury following a crime of violence;
- sexual or physical abuse;
- loss of earnings – where you have no or limited capacity to work as the direct result of a criminal injury;
- special expenses payments – these cover certain costs you may have incurred as a direct result of an incident. You can only ask us to consider special expenses if your injuries mean you have been unable to work or have been incapacitated to a similar extent for more than 28 weeks;
- a fatality caused by a crime of violence including bereavement payments, payments for loss of parental services and financial dependency; and funeral payments.
To qualify for an award, an injury must be described in the tariff of injuries at Annex E of the CICA Scheme. Not all claims for compensation will be successful; you must be eligible under the rules of the Scheme.
What Information Do I Need To Make A Criminal Injuries Compensation Claim?
To make a claim for compensation claim through the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA), you will need to provide certain information and documentation to support your criminal injury claim. Some of the information and documentation as minimum you will need include:
Details of The Crime & Injuries: You will need to provide a detailed account of the crime that resulted in your injury, including the date, time, location of the incident and injury details.
Crime Reference Number: You will need to provide the crime reference number issued by the police.
Police Station, Police Officer Name & Collar Number: You will need to provide the name of the police station, police officer name and collar number who dealt with the crime.
GP & Hospital Details and Medical records: You will need to provide GP & hospital details, consent to ask your medical records to see the nature and extent of your injuries, including any diagnoses and treatment received and submit it to CICA.
Other Supporting Evidence: You may also need to provide additional supporting evidence, such as witness statements or photographs, specialist medical reports, etc. to support your claim.
How is The Compensation Amount Determined?
The compensation amount is determined based on a tariff system that takes into account the specific nature and impact of the injury. We can assist with negotiating the compensation amount and ensuring that you receive the maximum amount of compensation available under the scheme. We can also check your eligibility to make a CICA claim and also advise you the approximate award amount you might receive from CICA.
Can I File a CICA Claim & Receive Compensation if The Offender is Not Convicted?
Yes, you can still file a CICA claim and compensation may still be payable even if the offender is not convicted. Remember you have two years to make a compensation claim under the CICA scheme, although exceptions may be made in cases where the injury was not immediately apparent or where the victim was a child at the time of the crime. Exceptions may be made for historic sexual abuse cases else you should have a good reason for delay in making a claim.
Can I Receive Compensation if I Was Injured Outside the UK?
To be eligible for compensation through the CICA, the crime must have occurred in England, Scotland, or Wales. If you were injured outside of the UK, you may still be eligible for compensation through other schemes or compensation programs but not from CICA.
Which Injuries Can Not Be Claimed From CICA?
CICA has specific eligibility criteria for claims, and certain types of injuries or circumstances may not be eligible for compensation. Here are some common examples of injuries or circumstances that may not be eligible for compensation through the CICA:
Self-inflicted Injuries: Compensation cannot be awarded for injuries that were self-inflicted or caused by the victim’s own actions.
Criminal Activity: Compensation cannot be awarded for injuries sustained as a result of criminal activity in which the victim was participating, such as a fight or brawl.
Minor Injuries: Minor physical injuries which can be healed itself such as scratches, bruises, black eye, soft tissue injuries, broken nose, broken ribs, bruising or a black eye are not claimable. You can claim for scarring from the CICA scheme.
Animal Attack / Dog Bite: You can’t claim for any animal attack or dog bites unless the animal was used as a weapon and ordered to attack purely to cause the harm or injuries.
Theft or Burglary: Damaged or lost/stolen properties such as house, car, phone, or any other device cannot be claimed from CICA scheme. You can claim for physical or mental injuries sustained as a result of theft, burglary and attack.
PTSD Not Diagnosed by Psychologist or Psychiatrist: PTSD, Anxiety and depression needs to be diagnosed by a clinical Psychologist or Psychiatrist in order to make a claim. CICA won’t accept any diagnosis by GP or any other medical professional.
When CICA Can Reject Your Claim?
The most common reasons for a Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) claim to be rejected are:
Time Limit: Claims must be made within two years of the date of the incident or the date when it is reported to the police. Where claimant is a minor they have until their 20th birthday to make a CICA claim. Claims made outside this time limit may be rejected, unless you have exceptional circumstances for the delay in submitting your claim.
Failure to Cooperate With the Police: Compensation claim may be rejected if the victim failed to provide statement, cooperate with the police during the investigation or dropped charges.
Unspent Conviction: If the claimant has an unspent conviction at the time of applying or before an award offer, their claim may be reduced or rejected. If you are unsure that your drink and drive or any other conviction is spent or unspent then give us a call.
Minor Injuries: If the injuries you sustained during the incident are minor and not included within the ‘CICA Scheme Tariff” then your claim may be rejected by CICA.
Psychological Injury Without Diagnosis: CICA may reject any claim compensation for mental injuries that are not diagnosed by a clinical Psychologist or Psychiatrist.
Lack of Supporting Evidence: If the requested medical evidence or other supporting evidence are not provided or not enough to demonstrate that you sustain an injury as a direct result of violent crime, then your claim may be rejected.
How We Can Help With CICA Claim?
- Providing Advice on Eligibility: We can help determine if you are eligible for compensation through the CICA scheme, based on the specific circumstances of your case and the other requirements of the scheme. We can help you recover compensation from £1,000 to £500,000.
- Gathering & Presenting Evidence: We can help gather and present evidence to support your claim, including medical records, injury form, GP report and other forms & relevant documentation. We will fight to recover the compensation that you deserve & deal with matters on your behalf.
- Completing the Application Form: We will complete the application form for CICA compensation on your behalf to ensure that it is completed correctly and submitted in a timely manner. We will handle everything on priority basis and keep it confidential.
- Negotiating the Compensation Amount: We will negotiate with the CICA on your behalf to ensure that you receive the maximum amount of compensation available under the scheme. We will also advise you that the compensation award offered is appropriate or not.
- No Win, No Fee: We will proceed with you claim on a No Win, No Fee basis. You don’t need to pay us anything if we can’t secure any compensation for you from CICA.
It’s important to note that while a solicitor is not required to make a claim for compensation through the CICA, many victims find it helpful to have legal representation to ensure that their rights are protected and that they receive the maximum amount of compensation available.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
