Claim Criminal Injuries Compensation For Fractured Heel
A fractured heel (calcaneus fracture) is a painful and often debilitating injury, significantly affecting mobility and quality of life. The heel bone plays a crucial role in weight-bearing and movement, making fractures in this area particularly challenging to recover from. Victims of violent crimes, such as assaults, muggings, or deliberate injuries, may suffer a fractured heel due to severe impact, falls, or blunt force trauma. The recovery process can be lengthy, requiring medical treatment, rehabilitation, and, in severe cases, surgical intervention.
If you have suffered a fractured heel as a result of a violent crime in the UK, you may be entitled to compensation through the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA). This government-backed scheme provides financial relief to victims who have sustained physical or psychological injuries due to criminal acts. Understanding the eligibility criteria, claim process, and compensation structure is essential to securing the financial support needed for recovery.
Understanding Fractured Heel Injury and Common Causes of Fractured Heel Injuries
A fractured heel occurs when the calcaneus bone, which supports the foot and absorbs shock during movement, sustains a break due to high-impact trauma. This type of fracture is particularly serious because the heel is essential for walking, balance, and distributing body weight. A fracture in this area can severely affect daily life, requiring extended medical treatment and rehabilitation.
Depending on the severity of the break, victims may experience chronic pain, reduced mobility, or post-traumatic arthritis. Some cases require simple immobilization, while others necessitate surgery to realign the bone fragments and stabilize the foot. Delayed or improper treatment can lead to complications such as nerve damage, persistent swelling, and difficulty wearing normal footwear. Recovery can take several months, during which individuals may struggle with walking or even standing for prolonged periods. Rehabilitation through physiotherapy is often needed to restore movement and prevent long-term stiffness. Common causes of fractured heel injuries:
- Assaults and Violent Attacks: Victims of violent crime may suffer heel fractures due to direct force, such as being kicked, stomped on, or forcefully tripped. These injuries are often severe, leading to significant swelling, bruising, and the potential for long-term mobility issues.
- Muggings and Robberies: Criminals using excessive force to subdue victims may cause injuries, especially if the victim is forcefully thrown, dragged, or pushed onto a hard surface. Victims who try to escape may also suffer heel fractures due to sudden falls or missteps while running.
- Falls from Height Due to Assault: Being pushed from a height, such as down stairs, off a ledge, or out of a moving vehicle, can result in a severe impact on the heels, leading to fractures. These types of falls often cause complex fractures requiring surgical intervention and prolonged rehabilitation.
- Blunt Force Trauma: Attacks involving weapons, such as bats, hammers, or heavy objects, can cause direct fractures to the heel bone. The force exerted on the foot can crush the calcaneus, leading to comminuted fractures that require extensive surgical repair.
- Hit-and-Run Incidents or Intentional Vehicle Assaults: Being struck by a vehicle, having the foot pinned under a wheel, or being run over can result in complex heel fractures. These injuries often involve additional complications such as soft tissue damage, nerve injuries, and an increased risk of infection, which may prolong recovery and require reconstructive surgery.
Eligibility Requirement for a CICA Fractured Heel Compensation Claim
To qualify for compensation from CICA, victims must meet specific eligibility criteria. These conditions ensure that financial assistance is directed towards genuine victims of violent crime. The key eligibility requirements include:
- The Incident Must Be Reported to the Police – Victims must report the crime as soon as possible, and an official police report must exist. Delays in reporting may impact the claim unless justified by medical incapacity or psychological distress.
- The Incident Must Have Occurred in the UK – CICA only compensates victims for crimes committed within England, Scotland, or Wales.
- You Must Cooperate with the Police Investigation – Victims are expected to assist the police in their inquiries, providing statements and evidence as necessary.
- Your Criminal Record May Affect Your Claim – If the victim has prior criminal convictions, particularly for violent offenses, the compensation amount may be reduced or the claim rejected.
- The Application Must Be Submitted Within Two Years of the Incident – Claims must be submitted within two years of the crime, though exceptions may apply for minors or victims suffering from severe trauma.
- You Must Have Suffered a Physical or Psychological Injury – Compensation is only awarded for injuries meeting the required severity threshold, such as a fractured heel with lasting mobility issues or chronic pain.
How Much Compensation Can You Receive for a Fractured Heel?
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 amount of compensation awarded depends on the severity of the fracture and the extent of recovery. CICA follows a structured tariff system for heel fractures, ensuring victims receive fair financial support based on their level of impairment:
- Fractured Heel – One Foot
- Substantial recovery: £1,500
- Continuing significant disability: £6,200
- Fractured Heel – Both Feet
- Substantial recovery: £3,500
- Continuing significant disability: £13,500
Compensation amounts are determined by factors such as mobility loss, chronic pain, and whether ongoing medical treatment is required. A substantial recovery means the victim has healed with minimal long-term consequences, while a continuing significant disability suggests that the injury has resulted in lasting impairments, such as difficulty walking, persistent pain, or the inability to return to previous employment.
In addition to the base compensation for the fracture itself, victims may be eligible for additional financial relief if they have suffered financial losses due to their injuries. This can include lost earnings if the victim was unable to work for an extended period, medical expenses for treatments or surgeries, and costs related to mobility aids or home adjustments required due to disability. Those with severe injuries that impact their quality of life may also qualify for long-term disability benefits or personal injury compensation beyond the CICA award.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) For Fractured Heel
Can I claim CICA compensation if I suffered a fractured heel due to a violent crime?
Yes, if your heel fracture was the result of a violent crime such as an assault, robbery, or hit-and-run, you may be eligible for compensation through the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA). Even if the perpetrator was not caught, you can still file a claim based on the severity of your injury, the treatment required, and any lasting mobility issues. Compensation is awarded based on the impact the injury has had on your daily life, including your ability to work, walk, and carry out normal activities.
Is it necessary to report the crime to the police to qualify for compensation?
Yes, reporting the crime to the police is a mandatory requirement for CICA compensation. You must report the incident as soon as possible and fully cooperate with the investigation. If you delay reporting, you need to provide a valid reason, such as hospitalization or trauma. Without a police report, your claim may be denied. If the police were unable to catch the perpetrator, you can still proceed with your claim, provided you have documented proof of the incident and your injuries.
What is the deadline to submit a CICA claim for a fractured heel?
You must file your claim within two years from the date of the crime. If you were under 18 when the incident occurred, the two-year period starts from your 18th birthday, giving you until age 20 to apply. In cases where exceptional circumstances prevented an earlier application, such as psychological trauma or an inability to file a claim due to medical reasons, extensions may be considered. However, it is always best to file your claim as soon as possible to ensure all relevant evidence is available.
What types of fractured heel injuries qualify for CICA compensation?
CICA compensates for various types of heel fractures, including:
- Simple fractures that heal with immobilization and physiotherapy.
- Displaced fractures requiring realignment or surgical intervention.
- Comminuted fractures where the bone is shattered into multiple pieces, requiring extensive treatment.
- Open fractures where the bone pierces the skin, increasing the risk of infection and requiring surgical repair.
- Heel fractures leading to long-term mobility limitations that affect daily life and work capabilities.
If your fracture caused chronic pain, arthritis, nerve damage, or a significant loss of function, this may increase the compensation amount.
How much compensation can I receive for a fractured heel?
CICA compensation depends on the severity and long-term effects of the injury:
- Fractured heel with substantial recovery (one foot) – £1,500
- Fractured heel with continuing significant disability (one foot) – £6,200
- Fractured heel with substantial recovery (both feet) – £3,500
- Fractured heel with continuing significant disability (both feet) – £13,500
Additional compensation may be available for loss of earnings, medical expenses, and psychological trauma if the injury has led to chronic pain, mobility impairment, or an inability to work.
What medical records do I need to support my claim?
To strengthen your claim, you should provide:
- Hospital admission reports documenting the initial injury and diagnosis.
- X-rays, CT scans, or MRI results confirming the fracture and severity.
- Surgical records if an operation was required to repair the heel.
- Physiotherapy and rehabilitation reports detailing ongoing treatment and limitations.
- Doctor’s statements outlining the long-term effects on mobility, daily activities, and work capacity.
- Prescriptions and medical treatment records that indicate the level of pain management needed.
Do I need a lawyer to file a CICA claim?
While legal representation is not required, it can be beneficial if your claim is complex or if you are disputing a low compensation offer. A lawyer can help ensure that your application is thorough, assist with gathering strong supporting evidence, and represent you in an appeal if necessary. They can also assess whether your injury qualifies for a higher compensation tier based on long-term impact.
What if my fractured heel led to long-term mobility problems?
If your fractured heel has resulted in chronic pain, arthritis, nerve damage, or permanent mobility limitations, you may qualify for higher compensation. Long-term effects such as difficulty walking, the need for orthotic devices, or recurring pain that affects your ability to work can significantly impact your quality of life. Providing medical reports that detail the extent of your injury and any ongoing treatment or mobility aids required will strengthen your case.
Can I claim if I fractured my heel in a public altercation?
Yes, but CICA will assess whether you contributed to the altercation. If you were an innocent victim, you are entitled to full compensation. However, if you provoked or engaged in the altercation, your compensation may be reduced or denied. Police reports, witness statements, and CCTV footage will be crucial in establishing your role in the incident and ensuring a fair decision is made.
What if my fractured heel was caused by domestic violence?
If your injury resulted from domestic violence, you may be eligible for CICA compensation if the crime was reported to the police. If you delayed reporting due to fear, coercion, or dependency on the abuser, you must provide an explanation. Supporting evidence such as medical records, photos of injuries, restraining orders, or statements from domestic abuse support organizations can strengthen your claim and improve your chances of receiving compensation.
Will my claim be affected if the offender was not arrested?
No, your eligibility for CICA compensation is based on the injury and crime, not whether the offender was caught or prosecuted. As long as you reported the crime to the police and cooperated fully with their investigation, you can still receive compensation. If the police were unable to identify or charge the offender, this does not impact your right to claim. However, CICA may require additional supporting evidence, such as medical reports and witness statements, to confirm the circumstances of the crime.
Can I claim for multiple injuries along with my fractured heel?
Yes, CICA allows victims to claim for multiple injuries sustained in the same criminal incident. The most serious injury will receive full compensation, while secondary injuries will receive a reduced percentage of their full value. For example, if you fractured your heel and also suffered head trauma, broken ribs, or severe bruising, each injury will be factored into your claim. Ensure that all injuries are documented in your medical records and included in your claim to maximize your compensation amount.
What if my heel fracture required surgery?
If your fractured heel required surgical intervention, such as metal plates, screws, or reconstructive procedures, your compensation may be higher. Surgery typically indicates a more severe injury with an extended recovery period, rehabilitation, and a higher risk of complications. Be sure to submit hospital records, surgical reports, post-operative care details, and any information about additional treatments required, such as future corrective surgery or physiotherapy.
Can I claim loss of earnings if I was unable to work?
Yes, if your heel fracture prevented you from working for more than 28 weeks, you may qualify for loss of earnings compensation. To support your claim, you need to provide wage slips, tax returns, or a letter from your employer confirming your absence from work due to your injury. If you are self-employed, submitting business records, invoices, or tax filings can help demonstrate the financial impact. If your injury has led to permanent work restrictions, you may also be eligible for long-term compensation to account for future income loss.
Can I claim CICA compensation if I was assaulted at work?
Yes, if you suffered a fractured heel due to a violent attack at work, you can claim CICA compensation as long as the incident was reported to the police. Workplace assaults, whether from customers, colleagues, or intruders, are covered under the CICA scheme. If your employer failed to provide adequate security measures, you may also have grounds for a separate personal injury claim. Providing incident reports, CCTV footage, and witness statements will strengthen your case.
Can I claim if my heel was fractured during a robbery?
Yes, victims of violent robberies or muggings resulting in a fractured heel can claim CICA compensation. Since robberies often involve physical assault, victims may suffer significant trauma. To support your claim, it is essential to report the incident to the police immediately and provide any available evidence, such as CCTV footage, witness testimonies, and crime reference numbers. The compensation awarded will depend on the severity of your injury and the long-term impact on your mobility.
What if I developed PTSD or anxiety due to my injury?
If the trauma of your injury led to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, or emotional distress, you may be eligible for additional compensation. Psychological injuries can be just as debilitating as physical injuries, affecting your ability to work, maintain relationships, and carry out daily activities. To claim for psychological trauma, you need to provide therapy notes, psychiatric evaluations, and medical reports confirming your condition. If you require long-term treatment, this may also be factored into your compensation.
How long does it take to receive CICA compensation?
Most CICA claims take 12 to 18 months to process. However, the timeline can vary depending on factors such as the complexity of your case, the availability of police and medical reports, and whether additional evidence is required. If your claim involves multiple injuries or ongoing medical treatment, it may take longer to assess the full extent of your damages. To prevent delays, ensure that all necessary documents are submitted promptly and respond quickly to any CICA requests for further information.
Can I still apply if I was under 18 when the crime happened?
Yes, if you were a minor when the crime occurred, the two-year deadline starts from your 18th birthday, meaning you have until age 20 to apply. However, a parent or legal guardian can file a claim on your behalf before you turn 18. If you were in foster care or faced exceptional circumstances that prevented you from applying earlier, CICA may grant an extension beyond the standard deadline. It is advisable to apply as soon as possible to ensure that all relevant evidence, including police and medical reports, is readily available.
What are the reasons my claim might be rejected?
CICA may reject claims due to:
- Failure to report the crime to the police or significant delays in reporting without a valid reason.
- Lack of cooperation with the police investigation, such as refusing to provide statements or evidence.
- Unspent criminal convictions, which may impact eligibility depending on the severity of the offense.
- Provocation or involvement in the altercation that led to the injury, which may result in a reduced or denied award.
If your claim is rejected, you have the right to appeal the decision by submitting additional evidence or clarifying any disputed points. Seeking legal assistance can improve your chances of a successful appeal, particularly if your case is complex or if you believe your compensation offer is too low.
Understanding Heel Fractures and Types of Heel Fractures
Heel fractures vary in severity and impact. Some fractures may heal with time, while others can result in permanent complications, affecting mobility and overall quality of life. The severity of the fracture often determines the course of treatment, which may range from rest and immobilization to complex surgical intervention. Below are the most common types of heel fractures:
- Simple (Non-Displaced) Fracture: The bone is cracked but remains aligned. This type of fracture usually heals with immobilization, such as a cast or protective boot, and requires minimal intervention. Patients may experience mild discomfort and swelling but generally recover without significant complications.
- Displaced Fracture: The bone breaks into separate pieces and shifts out of alignment. This type of fracture often requires surgical intervention to reposition the fragments correctly and ensure proper healing. If untreated, displaced fractures can lead to chronic pain and long-term mobility issues.
- Comminuted Fracture: A severe fracture in which the bone shatters into multiple fragments. This type of injury significantly increases the risk of long-term disability and arthritis, often necessitating reconstructive surgery and prolonged physical therapy to regain function.
- Open (Compound) Fracture: A serious injury where the broken bone pierces the skin, increasing the risk of infection and complications. Immediate surgical intervention is required to stabilize the bone and reduce the likelihood of long-term damage.
- Stress Fracture: Small cracks in the heel bone caused by repetitive impact or excessive strain. These fractures often develop gradually and may go unnoticed until pain becomes severe. Recovery typically involves rest, specialized footwear, and physiotherapy to prevent worsening of the injury.
The Impact of a Fractured Heel on Daily Life
A fractured heel can significantly impact a victim’s daily routine, often limiting their ability to walk, work, or carry out normal activities. The recovery process can be long and physically demanding, often requiring extensive rehabilitation and ongoing medical care. In some cases, the injury may lead to permanent mobility issues, altering the victim’s lifestyle and independence. Individuals with severe heel fractures may experience:
- Loss of Mobility: Inability to walk unaided, leading to reliance on crutches, wheelchairs, or orthotic devices. In more severe cases, victims may need long-term assistive equipment or mobility modifications to their homes and vehicles.
- Chronic Pain: Persistent discomfort that may require long-term pain management strategies. Some individuals develop conditions such as post-traumatic arthritis, which can lead to stiffness, reduced flexibility, and an increased likelihood of future complications.
- Employment Difficulties: Some victims may be unable to return to physically demanding jobs, requiring career changes or retraining. In cases where mobility is permanently affected, victims may need to seek disability benefits or alternative work that accommodates their limitations.
- Mental Health Challenges: Prolonged recovery times and mobility restrictions can contribute to depression, anxiety, or PTSD. The loss of independence and physical capability can lead to emotional distress, requiring counseling or psychological support to aid in mental recovery.
- Social and Lifestyle Limitations: Many victims find that their ability to participate in hobbies, social activities, and daily errands is affected. This can lead to isolation, frustration, and an overall decline in quality of life, making social and emotional support an essential part of recovery.
Financial Support and Benefits Beyond CICA Compensation
In addition to CICA compensation, victims of violent crimes suffering from a fractured heel may be eligible for other financial support options. The financial strain caused by a serious injury can be overwhelming, especially if the victim is unable to work for an extended period. Various benefits and grants are available to assist with recovery, rehabilitation, and living costs. These include:
- Statutory Sick Pay (SSP): If employed, victims may receive SSP if they are unable to work due to their injury. SSP is typically available for up to 28 weeks and helps cover basic living expenses while recovering.
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP): Individuals with long-term mobility issues may qualify for financial assistance to cover daily living and mobility costs. This benefit is particularly useful for those who experience difficulty walking, standing, or carrying out routine tasks due to their injury.
- Disability Benefits: Victims who suffer lasting disabilities may be entitled to government disability benefits to support their living expenses. This includes Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) or Universal Credit, which provide financial support to those who cannot work due to their condition.
- Rehabilitation Grants: Some organizations and charities offer funding to help with recovery, physiotherapy, or adaptive equipment needs. These grants can assist with the cost of physical therapy, assistive devices, and home modifications needed to accommodate mobility challenges.
- Access to Work Scheme: If the injury impacts the victim’s ability to perform their job, they may be eligible for support through the Access to Work scheme. This can include funding for workplace adjustments, mobility aids, or transport assistance to help maintain employment.
- Local Council Support: Many local authorities provide discretionary support funds or grants to assist individuals facing financial hardship due to medical conditions or injuries. This can include emergency housing support, utility bill assistance, or additional healthcare funding.
Seeking advice from a welfare rights specialist or legal professional can help victims determine their eligibility for these benefits and maximize the financial support available during recovery.
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)
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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.”
