Personal Injury Compensation Calculator UK
This personal injury compensation calculator UK gives a starting range for general damages, using the 18th edition of the Judicial College Guidelines (April 2026) or the fixed whiplash tariff for road accidents. For example, whiplash from a car accident lasting 3 to 6 months is worth £565 under the tariff, while a knee injury with full recovery is worth up to £18,150.
Add your lost earnings and expenses to see an overall figure.
- Whiplash tariff£275 – £4,975
- JCG uplift 2026about 8.26%
- Usual time limit3 years
Updated November 2026 · Uses JCG 18th edition and the 2025 whiplash tariff
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How personal injury compensation is calculated
Compensation has two parts. General damages pay for pain, suffering and loss of amenity. Judges and lawyers value them using the Judicial College Guidelines, which set brackets for each type of injury. Special damages repay your financial losses, such as lost earnings, travel, treatment and care, and need receipts or payslips.
The 18th edition of the Guidelines was published on 9 April 2026 and increased the brackets by about 8.26% in line with the Retail Prices Index.
Whiplash tariff from 31 May 2025
For road traffic accidents in England and Wales, whiplash lasting up to two years is paid at fixed tariff amounts set by regulations. These rose by about 15% for accidents on or after 31 May 2025.
| Duration of symptoms | Whiplash only | With minor psychological injury |
|---|---|---|
| Up to 3 months | £275 | £300 |
| 3 – 6 months | £565 | £595 |
| 6 – 9 months | £965 | £1,025 |
| 9 – 12 months | £1,510 | £1,595 |
| 12 – 15 months | £2,335 | £2,435 |
| 15 – 18 months | £3,445 | £3,550 |
| 18 – 24 months | £4,830 | £4,975 |
Compensation brackets for common injuries (2026)
| Injury | Judicial College Guidelines, 18th edition |
|---|---|
| Back, minor, recovery within about 2 years | £5,750 – £10,420 |
| Back, moderate, continuing pain | £16,520 – £36,680 |
| Knee, moderate, full or near-full recovery | up to £18,150 |
| Knee, torn cartilage or dislocation | £19,610 – £34,600 |
| Shoulder, frozen shoulder | £10,420 – £16,870 |
| Simple forearm fracture | £8,730 – £25,370 |
| Ankle, modest injury | up to £18,150 |
| Ankle, moderate | £18,150 – £35,130 |
| Minor head injury | £2,920 – £16,870 |
| Very severe brain damage | £372,570 – £533,720 |
Time limits and next steps
- You usually have three years from the date of the injury, or from when you first knew about it, to start court proceedings.
- For children the three years start at their 18th birthday.
- Keep records: photos, medical notes, receipts and a diary of symptoms.
- Get independent legal advice before accepting an early offer from an insurer.
Frequently asked questions
How much compensation do you get for whiplash?
For road accidents from 31 May 2025 the tariff pays £275 for symptoms up to 3 months, rising to £4,830 for 18 – 24 months, or a little more with a minor psychological injury.
How is personal injury compensation calculated in the UK?
General damages come from the Judicial College Guidelines brackets for your injury, and special damages repay your financial losses such as lost earnings and expenses.
What are the Judicial College Guidelines?
They are the guidance judges and lawyers use to value pain and suffering. The 18th edition was published on 9 April 2026.
How long do I have to make a personal injury claim?
Usually three years from the date of the injury or the date you became aware of it. For children the time limit starts at age 18.
How much compensation for a back injury?
A minor back injury that recovers within about two years is worth £5,750 – £10,420; one with continuing pain £16,520 – £36,680.
Sources and method
We use official UK guidance and recognised formulas, and test each calculator against worked examples. Results are estimates to help you plan, not professional advice. See how we work.