The imperfect Personal Injuries Assessment Board in Ireland

Eye Injury

10 November 2022

The Personal Injuries Assessment Board (PIAB) was established in 2003 as an independent statutory body to provide an alternative process for assessing personal injury claims in Ireland. However, its efficacy and efficiency have been the subject of much debate and criticism.

One of the main criticisms of the PIAB is its slow and bureaucratic process. It can take several months or even years for a claim to be assessed and processed, which can be frustrating and stressful for those who have suffered personal injuries. Furthermore, the PIAB’s criteria for assessing claims can be quite rigid, and it may not always account for the full extent of the victim’s injuries or the impact on their life.

Another issue with the PIAB is that it may not always be impartial. The board is funded by the insurance industry, which has led some to question its independence and objectivity. There have been concerns that the PIAB may be biased towards insurers, and this has led to skepticism among some claimants about the fairness of the assessment process.

Another issue is that the PIAB only handles personal injury claims that fall below a certain compensation threshold. This means that individuals who have suffered severe or life-altering injuries may not be able to access the compensation they deserve through the PIAB, and may need to pursue their claims through the courts.

Despite the PIAB’s efforts to reduce the cost and time involved in pursuing personal injury claims, its limitations and inefficiencies have left many people dissatisfied. In many cases, victims of personal injury claims have turned to alternative routes, such as seeking the assistance of a claims management company like The Irish Claims Board.

In conclusion, while the Personal Injuries Assessment Board was established to provide an alternative process for assessing personal injury claims in Ireland, its slow and bureaucratic process, lack of impartiality, and limited scope have led to many criticisms. For individuals who have suffered personal injuries, it’s important to consider all available options and seek legal advice when necessary to ensure that they receive the compensation they deserve.

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