By Morag Lewis, Senior Underwriter
Estimate read time 3 minutes 35 seconds
When a serious personal injury or catastrophic injury claim is referred to us, underwriters quickly start looking for indicators that suggest it may develop into a high-value matter. In this article we take a look at three key elements involved.
High-value personal injury claims often involve significant long-term care needs, complex causation questions and substantial future loss. Recognising these elements early allows cases to be structured thoughtfully rather than reactively.
Those early indicators help shape how the case is approached from the outset – how funding is structured, what evidence is prioritised, and which experts are likely to be needed.
At this early stage, three elements usually carry the greatest weight: liability, causation and long-term care needs.
1) Liability: How Strong is the Case?
Early liability evidence often sets the tone for both value and risk exposure. We look for clear and consistent accounts of what happened, supported by objective material where possible, and an initial view on whether there are any obvious legal breach.
Key indicators may include independent evidence such as CCTV or concurrent records, prompt and consistent witness accounts, and whether any admissions or apparent safety breaches are visible on first review.
Strong early liability analysis does not mean the case is straightforward, but it does provide a stable foundation for the decisions that follow.
2) Causation: Do the Alleged Breaches Flow From the Incident?
Causation can be where cases either consolidate or become more complex. The central question is whether the alleged breach caused the injuries and losses claimed, and to what extent.
Focused early medical input can be invaluable. In cases involving complex medical histories, instructing a screening expert at an early stage can help identify weaknesses, narrow down the issues and avoid unnecessary expert expenditure later.
A clear early view on causation reduces uncertainty and helps supports underwriting decisions.
3) Long-Term Care and Future Needs: What is the Likely Lifelong Impact?
In serious injury claims, the largest cost drivers are often long-term care, accommodation, therapies, specialist equipment and future loss of earnings.
Recognising potential future needs sooner rather than later allows for more considered planning. Early case management input and, where appropriate, an immediate needs assessment, can support rehabilitation goals as well as informing decisions about care, accommodation and occupational therapy evidence.
Early identification of these high-value elements enables structured and proportionate spending rather than reactive costs as the claim progresses. It also supports targeted expert selection and front-loaded investigation, which can improve clarity for all parties involved.
Working With us on High-Value Personal Injury Claims
Early dialogue can make a material difference in serious and catastrophic injury cases. If you would like to discuss a new matter or explore how underwriting considerations may affect case strategy, please call Morag on 01483 514881 or send an email to
Morag Lewis
Senior Underwriter
Morag Lewis
Morag has a legal background and joined Temple in 2022 after working for over three years at a Surrey law firm, where she assisted with personal injury and clinical negligence cases, along with some dispute resolution matters.
Her experience equips her to contribute effectively to Temple’s ATE insurance personal injury and clinical negligence teams.
As an Advanced Paralegal (MCILEX), Morag is now preparing to take her insurance exams, which will enable her to further develop her skills within the company and continue delivering excellent service to Temple’s customers.
Read articles by Morag Lewis
