Claim Criminal Injuries Compensation For Femur (Thigh Bone) Injury
Suffering a femur (thigh bone) fracture due to an act of violence can be life-altering. The femur is the longest and strongest bone in the human body, and breaking it usually results in significant pain, loss of mobility, and a long recovery period. Beyond the immediate physical injury, victims often experience financial hardship due to medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, and loss of earnings. If you have suffered a femur fracture as a result of a violent crime in the UK, you may be eligible for compensation from the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA).
CICA is a government-backed scheme that provides financial assistance to innocent victims of violent crimes. Understanding the eligibility requirements, compensation amounts, and application process is crucial to maximizing your claim.
Understanding Femur (thigh bone) Injury and Common Causes of Femur (thigh bone) Injuries
A femur fracture is a severe injury that requires immediate medical attention and often surgical intervention. Due to the femur’s role in supporting body weight and movement, a fracture can severely impact mobility and quality of life. These fractures can occur in different ways, with some healing over time and others leading to permanent disability. Depending on the severity, victims may require multiple surgeries, extended hospital stays, and prolonged use of mobility aids such as crutches or wheelchairs. Recovery may involve extensive rehabilitation, including physiotherapy, strength training, and pain management.
In some cases, complications such as infections, blood clots, or improper bone healing can further prolong the recovery process, increasing the need for long-term medical care. Femur fractures in the context of violent crime are often caused by significant trauma. The most common causes include:
- Assaults and Violent Attacks: Blunt force trauma from physical altercations, such as being struck with a heavy object, kicked, or forcefully knocked down, can cause femur fractures. In some cases, repeated strikes to the leg can worsen the injury, leading to multiple fractures or complications requiring surgical intervention.
- Robberies and Muggings: Criminals using excessive force to overpower victims can lead to broken bones, especially if the victim is pushed onto hard surfaces, struck with a weapon, or forcefully restrained. Victims attempting to resist or escape may also suffer severe leg injuries from falls or direct attacks.
- Domestic Violence: Severe domestic abuse cases may involve repeated physical assaults, resulting in femur fractures from kicks, falls, or being pushed against hard objects. In some cases, victims experience delayed medical treatment due to coercion or fear, exacerbating the severity of the injury.
- Hit-and-Run Incidents or Vehicle Assaults: In violent crimes involving vehicles, offenders may intentionally strike victims, causing extensive leg injuries. The impact force of a vehicle can result in complex fractures that require multiple surgeries and prolonged rehabilitation.
- Gang Violence and Public Brawls: Escalations in violent encounters, particularly those involving blunt objects, knives, or firearms, can result in serious femur fractures. Victims caught in large-scale altercations or street fights are especially vulnerable to severe leg injuries that may lead to long-term mobility issues.
Eligibility Requirements for CICA Compensation for Femur (thigh bone) Injuries
To qualify for a CICA claim, victims must meet specific eligibility criteria to ensure that only those who have genuinely suffered from a violent crime receive compensation. The following conditions must be met:
- The Incident Must Be Reported to the Police – Victims must report the crime to the police as soon as possible. The police report serves as key evidence supporting the claim. Any delay in reporting may negatively impact the application unless justified by medical incapacitation, fear, or trauma.
- The Incident Must Have Occurred in the UK – CICA only provides compensation for crimes that have taken place within England, Scotland, or Wales.
- You Must Cooperate with the Police Investigation – Full cooperation with the police is necessary. Victims must provide statements, attend interviews, and assist in the investigation to ensure the crime is properly recorded and prosecuted.
- Your Criminal Record May Affect Your Claim – A victim’s criminal history, particularly for violent offenses, may reduce or disqualify their eligibility for compensation. Each case is assessed individually.
- The Application Must Be Submitted Within Two Years of the Incident – Applications should be filed within two years of the crime. However, exceptions may be granted for minors or victims suffering from severe psychological trauma that delayed their ability to apply.
- You Must Have Suffered a Physical or Psychological Injury – Compensation is awarded for serious injuries, such as femur fractures, that cause long-term mobility issues. Psychological trauma, including PTSD or anxiety related to the violent incident, may also be considered as part of the claim.
Meeting these conditions is crucial to ensuring a successful claim and receiving the financial support necessary for recovery.
How Much Compensation Can You Receive for Femur (thigh bone) Injuries?
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.
The compensation awarded for a femur fracture depends on the severity of the injury and the extent of recovery. CICA follows a structured tariff system for femur fractures, categorized based on whether the injury affects one or both legs and whether the victim experiences significant long-term disability:
- Fractured Femur – One Leg
- Substantial recovery: £1,800
- Continuing significant disability: £4,600
- Fractured Femur – Both Legs
- Substantial recovery: £3,500
- Continuing significant disability: £11,000
These compensation amounts are based on the level of long-term impairment, including mobility issues, chronic pain, or the need for prolonged rehabilitation. Victims who suffer from additional complications, such as nerve damage or psychological trauma, may also be eligible for further compensation, including lost earnings and special care costs if they are unable to return to work or daily activities.
Additional compensation may be awarded for lost earnings, rehabilitation costs, and special care needs if the injury prevents the victim from working or engaging in daily activities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) For Femur (thigh bone) Injuries
Can I claim CICA compensation if I suffered a femur fracture due to a violent crime?
Yes, if your femur (thigh bone) was broken as a result of a violent crime such as an assault, hit-and-run, or robbery, you may be eligible for compensation through the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA). Even if the offender was never caught, you can still claim compensation based on the severity of your injury, medical treatment, and long-term mobility issues. The compensation amount will depend on factors such as the type of fracture, recovery time, ongoing pain, and whether surgery or rehabilitation was required.
Is it necessary to report the crime to the police to qualify for compensation?
Yes, reporting the crime to the police is a requirement for CICA compensation. The crime should be reported as soon as possible, and you must fully cooperate with the police investigation. If you delay reporting, you must provide a valid reason, such as hospitalization or emotional trauma. Without a police report, your claim may be rejected. If the police are unable to catch the offender, you can still proceed with your claim as long as you provided all necessary information to law enforcement.
What is the deadline to submit a CICA claim for a femur fracture?
You must submit your claim within two years from the date of the crime. If you were under 18 when the incident occurred, the two-year period begins on your 18th birthday, giving you until age 20 to apply. In exceptional cases, where the victim was unable to file due to medical or psychological reasons, extensions may be considered. You will need to provide strong evidence showing why you could not submit your claim within the standard timeframe.
What types of femur fractures qualify for CICA compensation?
CICA compensates victims for different types of femur fractures, including:
- Simple fractures that require casting and healing without surgery.
- Displaced fractures that need surgical realignment and fixation with screws or plates.
- Multiple fractures affecting different parts of the femur.
- Open (compound) fractures where the bone pierces through the skin, increasing infection risk.
- Fractures causing long-term mobility issues or permanent disability.
If your fracture resulted in complications such as nerve damage, arthritis, or difficulty walking, this could increase the amount of compensation awarded.
How much compensation can I receive for a femur fracture?
CICA awards compensation based on injury severity and long-term effects:
- Femur fracture with full recovery – £3,500 – £6,200
- Femur fracture resulting in mobility impairment or chronic pain – £11,000 – £22,000
- Severe multiple fractures causing permanent disability – £27,000+
You may also claim additional compensation for psychological trauma, lost income, rehabilitation, and other necessary medical expenses.
What medical records do I need to support my claim?
You should provide:
- Hospital admission reports describing your injury.
- X-rays, CT scans, or MRI results confirming the fracture.
- Surgical records if an operation was required.
- Doctor’s reports detailing recovery progress and long-term effects.
- Physiotherapy reports showing rehabilitation efforts.
- Prescriptions and treatment plans for pain management and healing.
Having complete medical documentation will strengthen your claim and ensure you receive fair compensation.
Do I need a lawyer to file a CICA claim?
You do not need a lawyer to submit a CICA claim, but legal assistance can be beneficial, particularly if your claim is complex or if your compensation offer is lower than expected. A legal professional can guide you through the application, gather strong evidence, and assist in appeals if necessary. If your injury has resulted in long-term disability, a lawyer can help ensure that your compensation reflects your financial losses and medical needs.
What if my femur fracture led to permanent mobility problems?
If your femur fracture caused permanent mobility issues, nerve damage, or chronic pain, you may be entitled to higher compensation. CICA considers cases where victims require walking aids, experience ongoing pain, or have a limited range of motion when determining compensation amounts. Providing medical evidence from specialists, physiotherapists, or orthopedic doctors will help support your claim for long-term effects.
Can I claim if I broke my femur in a public altercation?
Yes, but CICA will assess whether you had any responsibility in the altercation. If you were an innocent victim, you are eligible for compensation. However, if you engaged in a fight or provoked violence, your claim may be reduced or denied. Police reports, witness statements, and CCTV footage can help clarify your case and demonstrate that you were not at fault.
What if my femur was fractured due to domestic violence?
If your injury was caused by domestic violence, you may claim CICA compensation if the incident was reported to the police. Domestic abuse survivors often face challenges in reporting crimes, so if you delayed reporting, you must provide an explanation. Supporting evidence such as medical records, photos of injuries, restraining orders, or statements from domestic violence support organizations can strengthen your claim.
Will my claim be affected if the offender was not arrested?
No, your eligibility for CICA compensation is based on the injury and crime rather than whether the offender was caught or prosecuted. The primary concern for CICA is whether you were a victim of a violent crime and if you have met the necessary reporting and cooperation requirements. Even if the police investigation does not lead to an arrest, as long as you have provided them with all available information and fully cooperated, your claim should not be affected. You may need to provide additional evidence, such as medical reports and witness statements, to strengthen your claim.
Can I claim for multiple injuries along with my femur fracture?
Yes, CICA allows victims to claim compensation for multiple injuries resulting from the same violent crime. Compensation is calculated using a tiered system, where the most serious injury is awarded full compensation, and additional injuries receive a percentage of their full value. For example, if you suffered a femur fracture along with a head injury or broken ribs, each injury will be considered in your claim. It is crucial to document all injuries thoroughly in your medical reports and include them in your application to ensure a fair assessment of your case.
What if my femur fracture required surgery?
If your femur fracture required surgical intervention, such as the insertion of metal rods, screws, or plates, your compensation may be higher due to the severity of your injury. Surgery typically results in a longer recovery period, increased pain, and potential complications such as infections or mobility limitations. In such cases, it is crucial to provide hospital records, surgical reports, post-operative care details, and any prescribed rehabilitation treatments to demonstrate the full extent of your injury and the long-term impact it has on your daily life.
Can I claim loss of earnings if I was unable to work?
Yes, if your femur fracture prevented you from working for more than 28 weeks, you may be eligible to claim compensation for lost earnings. CICA only provides loss of earnings compensation if your injuries significantly impacted your ability to work for an extended period. You will need to submit wage slips, tax returns, or an employer’s letter confirming your absence. Self-employed individuals can provide business records, invoices, or tax filings to demonstrate financial losses. If your femur fracture resulted in permanent work restrictions or forced you to change careers, you may be entitled to additional compensation to reflect your long-term financial losses.
Can I claim CICA compensation if I was assaulted at work?
Yes, if you suffered a femur fracture due to a violent attack at work, you may be eligible for CICA compensation. Workplace assaults are covered under the scheme as long as the crime was reported to the police. Even if your employer has insurance or workers’ compensation, CICA compensation is separate and is specifically for victims of criminal injuries. If your employer failed to implement adequate safety measures, you may also have grounds for a separate claim against them. Gathering evidence such as incident reports, CCTV footage, medical reports, and witness testimonies can help support your case.
Can I claim if my femur was broken in a robbery?
Yes, if your femur fracture resulted from a violent robbery or mugging, you can apply for CICA compensation. Since robberies often involve physical assault, victims frequently sustain serious injuries that impact their long-term well-being. Reporting the crime to the police as soon as possible is essential for your claim. To strengthen your case, submit CCTV footage, medical records, police reports, and witness statements if available. CICA takes into account the physical and psychological impact of violent crimes when determining compensation.
What if I developed PTSD or anxiety due to my injury?
If your femur fracture led to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, or other emotional distress, you may be eligible for additional compensation. Many victims of violent crimes experience significant psychological effects that can impact their ability to work, maintain relationships, and carry out daily activities. To claim for psychological trauma, you will need to provide mental health assessments, therapy reports, and medication prescriptions if applicable. If your condition requires long-term treatment or significantly impacts your quality of life, CICA may increase your compensation award accordingly.
How long does it take to receive CICA compensation?
Most CICA claims take 12 to 18 months to process. The timeline depends on factors such as the availability of police and medical reports, the severity of your injuries, and whether additional evidence is required. If your claim involves multiple injuries or long-term rehabilitation, it may take longer. To avoid unnecessary delays, ensure all necessary documentation is submitted promptly and respond quickly to any requests for additional information.
Can I still apply if I was under 18 when the crime happened?
Yes, if you were a minor at the time of the incident, the two-year application deadline starts from your 18th birthday. However, a parent or guardian can file a claim on your behalf before you turn 18. If you were in foster care or unable to apply earlier due to exceptional circumstances, an extension may be granted. The sooner you apply, the easier it will be to gather evidence, such as police and medical reports, to support your claim.
What are the reasons my claim might be rejected?
CICA may reject claims due to:
- Failure to report the crime to the police.
- Lack of cooperation with the police investigation.
- Unspent criminal convictions that may affect eligibility.
- Evidence suggesting the victim provoked the incident.
If your claim is rejected, you have the right to appeal the decision, providing additional evidence to strengthen your case. Seeking legal assistance can improve your chances of a successful appeal.
Understanding Femur (thigh bone) Fractures and Types of Femur (thigh bone) Injuries
Femur fractures can vary widely in severity, location, and long-term impact. The extent of the damage often depends on factors such as the force of impact, the nature of the assault, and whether medical intervention was immediate. Some fractures heal with proper care, while others can result in chronic pain, mobility impairment, or permanent disability.
- Transverse Fracture: A horizontal break across the femur caused by a direct blow. This type of fracture is usually treated with immobilization or surgery, depending on severity.
- Spiral Fracture: A break that occurs in a twisted pattern due to a rotational force applied to the leg. These fractures often require surgery and extended rehabilitation.
- Comminuted Fracture: A severe break where the bone shatters into multiple fragments. These injuries are complex and often require surgical fixation with metal rods or plates.
- Open (Compound) Fracture: A fracture where the bone pierces the skin, increasing the risk of infection. This type of injury requires immediate surgery and a longer recovery period.
- Stress Fracture: A small crack in the femur caused by repetitive stress or impact. While less severe than other fractures, stress fractures require proper rest and physical therapy to prevent worsening.
Rehabilitation and Support for Femur Fracture Victims
Recovering from a femur fracture requires extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and emotional support. The severity of the injury dictates the recovery time, which can range from several months to years. Victims may require:
- Physiotherapy and Mobility Training: Targeted exercises help restore muscle strength, flexibility, and movement.
- Psychological Support: Trauma counseling can assist victims struggling with PTSD, anxiety, or depression caused by the violent crime.
- Pain Management Programs: Medication, physical therapy, and alternative treatments such as acupuncture can aid in managing chronic pain.
- Occupational Therapy: Assisting victims in adapting to life changes and helping with work or daily activities after the injury.
- Financial Assistance: Some victims may qualify for additional benefits or charitable support to help cover ongoing medical expenses and rehabilitation costs.
Legal Assistance and Support in Filing a CICA Claim
Filing a CICA claim can be complex, particularly if eligibility or compensation amounts are disputed. Seeking legal assistance can significantly improve the chances of a successful claim. Legal professionals can:
- Assess the Claim: Expert legal advisors can evaluate the case and estimate fair compensation.
- Handle Documentation and Evidence Gathering: Ensuring police reports, medical records, and witness statements are well-documented to support the claim.
- Challenge Unfair Decisions: If compensation is denied or undervalued, legal professionals can guide victims through the appeal process.
- Manage the Claim Process: Handling paperwork and deadlines reduces stress and improves the efficiency of the claim.
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 recognizes 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.
Increasing the Chances of a Successful CICA Claim
To improve your chances of receiving the highest possible CICA compensation, follow these essential steps:
- 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 specializes 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 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 behavior must not have contributed to the injury. In certain circumstances, compensation may still be payable even if the victim’s behavior 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 a unspent criminal record.
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 won’t able to 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-year for making 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 form CICA scheme.
Animal Attack / Dog Bite: You can’t claim for any animal attack or bog 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 won’t able to 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)
We are here to help!
If you, a friend or a family member has suffered physical or psychological injuries as a result of a violent crime, it may be possible to apply to the CICA for compensation.
“The Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA), is a government organisation which provides compensation for victims of violent crime in England, Wales, and Scotland. We represent victims of violent crime to get compensation from CICA.”
