Making an acid attack compensation claim.
If you or someone close to you has been an unfortunate victim of such a horrific incident, then read how you can make an acid attack compensation claim.
What are Acid Attacks?
An acid attack (also referred to as a vitriol attack) is a violent assault in which a corrosive substance is thrown directly at someone. Acid attacks can cause severe injuries, such as burns, disfigurement, bone dissolvement and blindness.
We understand the effects of these attacks can be devastating, as in addition to the physical injuries, which are often permanent and life-changing, victims also suffer significant psychological harm.
The UK has one of the highest rates of acid attacks in the world. In one study, 601 acid attacks were identified as occurring in the UK over a period of just 12 months.
Am I entitled to compensation?
As acid attacks are a criminal offence we can assist you in applying to a government scheme called the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA).
The number of CICA awards for acid burns is a surprisingly low. We therefore believe that many victims are unaware of the CICA scheme and its benefits.
You may also bring a claim directly against the perpetrator if they are known and have sufficient personal assets to meet an award of compensation. In some circumstances legal liability may rest with an employer or other party.
How much compensation can I claim?
Every case is separately assessed on its own facts, so awards of compensation vary enormously.
Compensation is based on the severity and permanency of your injuries and the financial impact it has on you.
As a very general guideline, awards of compensation paid under the CICA scheme are made in accordance with the following tariffs:
- Burns around the body: up to £33,000.
- Burns to the face: up to £27,000.
- Damage/loss of senses (e.g. eyes/vision): up to £111,000
- Mental injury: up to £27,000.
There are further options to increase the overall figure, such as a loss of earnings claim.
Claims made directly against the perpetrator (or other parties) are not bound by these tariffs.
How will we help you?
We will assess the circumstances of your case and advise on the options open to you.
Many people find the CICA scheme difficult to deal with alone. We often receive enquiries where victims have begun their own application but have failed to maximise their potential compensation due to a lack of legal knowledge. We can help you navigate the process using our wealth of experience. As your claim progresses, we will be there every step of the way to give you all the support you need.
We deal with CICA claims on a No Win, No Fee basis, which requires no payment up front from you. If you aren’t successful then you pay us nothing. If you are awarded compensation, then we take a ‘success fee’ from whatever you recover. This is limited to a maximum of 25%.
So, if you or someone close to you has been a victim of an acid attack and wish to enquire as to whether a compensation claim can be brought, then please don’t hesitate to call our free helpline or email us.
Start your claim by calling our national helpline on 0333 888 0404 or emailing us at [email protected].
