MASS welcomes 'sensible' RTA delay

The Motor Accident Solicitors Society has welcomes the Ministry of Justice’s decision to delay the implementation of the new RTA process to 30 April 2010 from 6th April 2010 (see: New PI claims process 'go live' date pushed back).

MASS said it was a "very sensible decision considering the enormous time pressures that were being placed on its members."

MASS has been engaged in each aspect of the new process including the stakeholder meetings, CPR Rules drafting Committee and the IT Platform Committees.

In a statement, MASS said: "Our representation has played a part in ensuring that the implementation date is put back to 30 April which is a delay that MASS fully supports. Whilst ideally MASS would have liked still more time, this was the maximum delay that could be achieved against the background of the MoJ requirement to implement as early as possible."

MASS chairman John Spencer added: “It is important, when introducing any fundamental changes to recognise what could happen if preparations are not completed and are not thorough. In the case of the new RTA process MASS’ primary concern is that there could be a negative and detrimental impact on the accident victim who may be involved in a process which is prematurely implemented.

"Furthermore, after over 2 years of enormous effort by all parties, MASS would not wish the new process to be launched prematurely. The deferment agreed reduces this risk rather than eradicates it.