In a civil claim for damages the claimant must prove their case in every respect. As far as their injuries are concerned, they must do this by providing evidence from a suitably qualified and experienced medical expert witness.

The expert’s evidence must support their claim by evidencing the injury sustained, that it was caused by the incident complained of and the extent and duration of the symptoms caused. If a full recovery has not yet taken place, the expert can also offer their opinion on the prognosis for recovery.

Where a victim has not recovered from their injuries the expert may also recommend further medical investigations or treatment. These would normally be undertaken privately rather than through the NHS, but would be intended to be complementary to any ongoing NHS care.