1. You will be aware that the new claims process for Low Value Road Traffic Accident Personal Injury claims is due to be implemented on 6 April 2010.

2. The new process requires the documents to be exchanged electronically. This requirement was specifically requested by the industry. As you know the industry has been working to develop a secure IT portal system for the RTA process in order for personal information to be exchanged securely in accordance with the Data Protection Act. This is an industry led IT solution and MoJ has only been involved to ensure rule changes are reflected in the development of the portal.

3. There will be 2 means of accessing the IT portal: via a web browser (for those issuing only small volumes) or through a system to system application for bulk issuers.

4. MoJ understands that the web browser route has been fully developed and will be available in time for 6 April. It also understand that the work is well advanced in developing and delivering the system to system application. However, following a checkpoint meeting on Monday this week, a request to move the implementation date was made by the IT Project Steering Group (IT PSG). They were concerned about difficulties that users who wish to adopt the system to system method of transmitting data will have in making the necessary changes to their own internal case management systems by 6 April. They have, therefore, asked MoJ to defer the implementation date to 30 April.

5. Minsters are determined to introduce the new process, which will deliver fair compensation to injured parties in a speedy manner and at proportionate cost, as soon as possible. The industry was informed of the planned implementation date in summer 2009 and therefore it has been aware of 6 April date for a considerable period of time. However, Ministers recognise the practical concerns raised by IT PSG and have therefore agreed to defer the implementation date to 30 April. This date will be set out in the SI introducing the new process which will be laid early next month. This date will not be changed any further.

Story Credit: Ministry of Justice