The process of insurance reform is to take a further step forward in the coming months with the Government set to commence the second phase of legislation reforming the Personal Injuries Assessment Board (PIAB) at the start of September.
Under the next stage of the Personal Injuries Resolution Board Act 2022, those making an application to PIAB will need to supply a Personal Public Service Number or alternative identification.
All claimants will also be required to sign the application form to PIAB.
While failure to supply required information, including description in the medical report of the personal injuries allegedly sustained, will mean the PIAB application will be incomplete and as a result the statute of limitations will continue to run.
"The second phase will further strengthen the PIAB process and reduce the potential for identity fraud and ensure accuracy in relation to payment of resolved claims," said Minister of State for Trade Promotion, Digital and Company Regulation, Dara Calleary, who will commence the legislation on September 4th.
"As this phase sees a change to the current application process, I am providing a period of notice for enactment to allow for all relevant stakeholders, especially claimants, to become familiar with the updated process and make any necessary arrangements."
Part of the Government's insurance reform agenda has included changes to how the PIAB operates.
The alterations have been aimed at encouraging more claimants and respondents to use the service to work through injury claims.
PIAB is generally considered a cheaper and faster way of resolving personal injuries cases, with the effect that it brings costs down.
This should in theory lead to lower cost of claims and as a result reduced premiums.
The act was signed into law by the President in December of last year.
"I intend to commence the third and final phase of the Act with all elements relating to the introduction of a mediation service and the remaining provisions of the Act before year end and will continue to work with PIAB and my Department on its enactment," said Mr Calleary.
