By Danielle Jordan. Last Updated 16th February 2026. A slipped disc, also known as a herniated or bulging disc, can be a painful and debilitating injury that affects your mobility, ability to work, and overall quality of life. While some people recover with treatment, others are left with long-term pain, nerve damage, or permanent limitations.
In the UK, slipped disc compensation can range from around £2,000 for minor injuries to over £190,000 for severe, life-changing cases, depending on the seriousness of the injury and how it impacts your life. Compensation is assessed using recognised legal guidelines and is based on proving that your injury was caused by someone else’s negligence, such as an accident at work, a road traffic accident, or a slip or fall.
If your slipped or herniated disc was not your fault, you may be entitled to compensation for pain and suffering, as well as financial losses like lost earnings and medical costs.
At Legal Expert, we work with trusted and specialist personal injury solicitors who handle spinal injury claims on a No Win No Fee basis. Our team can offer free, no-obligation advice and guide you through every stage of your claim. To speak with us today, click below, or to learn more about slipped disc compensation claims, please keep scrolling.
4.8 (466 reviews) What Is The Average Payout For A Slipped Disc In The UK?
You could receive up to two heads of loss for a successful slipped or herniated disc compensation claim. The first is general damages, which covers the pain and suffering caused by your injuries. General damages also consider how your injuries have affected your day-to-day life by covering loss of amenity.
Those valuing this head of your claim may refer to the Judicial College Guidelines (JCG) to help them. This document provides a list of guideline compensation amounts for different injuries, including slipped and herniated disc injuries.
In the list below, you can find some examples of these guidelines. Please note that these amounts aren’t guaranteed, and that the first figure has not been taken from the JCG.
- You could potentially receive up to £500,000+ for suffering multiple severe injuries plus special damages.
- You could potentially receive between £80,240 to £159,770 for a severe neck injury, where disc damage in the cervical spine leads to considerably severe disabilities (such as loss of function in 1 or more limbs).
- You could potentially receive between £16,770 to £30,500 for a moderate neck injury, where disc lesions lead to cervical spondylosis.
- You could potentially receive between £47,320 to £85,100 for a severe back injury, where disc fractures lead to chronic conditions and disabilities that remain even after surgery.
- You could potentially receive between £33,880 to £47,320 for a moderate back injury, where a prolapsed intervertebral disc requires surgery.
- You could potentially receive between £15,260 to £33,880 for a moderate back injury, where a prolapsed disc requires a laminectomy.
- You could potentially receive between £9,630 to £15,260 for a minor back injury, where recovery without surgery takes between 2-5 years
4.8 (466 reviews) What Else Can I Claim For A Herniated Disc?
Additionally, you may be able to claim back any of the financial losses you suffered due to your injury under special damages if you make a successful slipped disc injury claim.
Some examples of the financial losses and costs that could be compensated for under special damages include:
- A loss of earnings if you required time off work due to your back injury.
- Medical costs, such as paying for over-the-counter pain relief, and rehabilitation, such as physiotherapy.
- Travel expenses, such as paying for taxi or train fares to medical appointments.
You will need to present evidence of these losses, such as payslips and invoices.
Contact our advisors today if you still have any questions regarding how much compensation you could receive for a successful slipped disc compensation claim. They could also provide you with a free valuation of your case and may connect you with a personal injury lawyer.
What Is A Herniated or Slipped Disc?
A herniated disc, also referred to as a prolapsed or slipped disc, occurs when the soft cushion of tissues between your spinal bones bulges outwards. Some common symptoms, which may lead to slipped disc compensation claims, include:
- Tingling sensation or numbness in the hands, arms, legs or shoulders.
- Muscular weakness
- Difficulties in bending or straightening your back.
- Sciatica
- Neck or lower back pain
However, it is important to note that there aren’t always symptoms in case of slipped disc injuries. People often don’t realise that they have a slipped disc.
There are certain factors which may increase the risk of a herniated disc, such as:
- Excessive exercise.
- Ageing
- Lifting heavy objects incorrectly.
- Sitting or driving for extended periods of time.
- Being overweight or inactive.
Depending on the extent of your symptoms, a medical professional may administer the following treatment:
- Short-term measures, such as painkillers, muscle relaxants or steroid injections to treat the symptoms.
- Physiotherapy or osteopathy, if the symptoms don’t improve over time.
- Surgery may be considered if there is no improvement or if there is an increase in muscle weakness or numbness.
In the above sections, we’ve discussed the possible herniated disc compensation amounts. You can read ahead for more information on the process of claiming compensation for a herniated disc and contact us if you have any questions.
When Can I Make A Slipped Disc Compensation Claim?
You can make a claim for slipped disc compensation when a party fails to uphold health and safety laws, allowing you to be harmed. It can be difficult to figure out whether you are eligible to proceed, so keep reading to learn more about the criteria that you need to meet.
A Party Owed You A Duty Of Care
There are certain scenarios where a party owes you a duty of care, meaning that they need to uphold health and safety laws in order to protect your well-being. Common examples of situations in which this applies include the workplace, public spaces, and roads.
Health And Safety Laws Were Not Upheld
As stated, there are various laws in place that aim to keep you safe. It is necessary to show that a party failed to take steps to uphold such laws. For example, it is your employer’s legal responsibility to provide you with health and safety training that is relevant to your job. If they fail to do so, they may be liable for an accident caused by an employee performing a task for which they were not trained.
You Were Harmed During The Incident
It will be necessary to show how exactly the accident affected you in terms of your physical and mental health. There are various ways in which you could be injured, such as fractures, brain injuries, sprains, and strains. Accidents can often be traumatic, so anxiety, depression and other psychological conditions are also common examples of harm.
Speak to our advisors today to confirm whether you can make a claim for herniated disc compensation. They understand that personal injury law can be complicated, and you may already be in a stressful situation. Contact our team for straightforward answers to your questions.
What Are The Causes Of A Slipped Disc Injury?
There are various ways in which you could suffer a herniated disc. However, in order to be eligible to seek slipped disc compensation, you must prove that a liable party breached the duty of care they owed to you.
Here are a few examples of how duty of care can be breached and how this can result in a slipped disc:
- Inadequate manual handling training at work. As part of their duty of care, your employer should provide you with manual handling training if this is required to safely carry out your work duties. Thus, using the incorrect lifting technique when picking up a heavy load could lead to a slipped disc in your back.
- A car accident. If a driver rear-ends your car while you are stationary in traffic because they were exceeding the speed limit, the jerking movement can cause a back or neck injury.
- A slip, trip and fall in a public place can also cause a spinal cord injury. For example, if no wet floor signs were displayed next to a spillage in a supermarket aisle. Your torso may twist out of place while slipping and tripping over the spillage, which can cause a herniated disc.
To learn more about herniated disc compensation amounts or to discuss the incident that caused your injury, please give us a call today and discuss your circumstances.
What Is The Herniated Disc Injury Claims Process?
The claims process for a herniated disc injury claim involves collecting evidence to prove each aspect of your case and ensuring that you start proceedings within the legally required time frame. Keep reading to learn more about this.
Put Your Health First
Before you even start thinking about making a claim for slipped disc compensation, you should consider whether you need medical treatment. Depending on the nature of your injuries, you may need to visit a hospital, GP, urgent care centre or therapist.
Once your condition is stable, you may start thinking about what you can do to strengthen your chances of making a successful claim. You may be pleased to know that by seeking medical treatment, you will have created an official record of the harm you have suffered and the treatment required. You can later request a copy of your medical records as evidence for your case.
Start Gathering Your Evidence
The stronger your evidence, the more likely you are to have a successful claim for bulging disc compensation. Common ways of proving your injuries and the incident that caused them include:
- Copies of CCTV camera or dashcam footage
- The contact details of those who witnessed the accident
- The insurance and contact information of a driver (this applies in road traffic accident)
- Photos of visible injuries (such as lacerations)
- Photos of any hazards you can see at the site of the accident
You may find it easier in the long run if you start collecting the evidence as soon as possible.
Report Your Accident
Depending on the nature of your accident, it may be a good idea to report the incident to:
- Your employer (who is required to also make a report when certain injuries occur)
- A manager or business owner
- An ombudsman
- Your insurer
- The police
If you have any written correspondence with other parties regarding the incident, it is advisable to retain copies.
Keep Your Own Records
Having your own record of events can be useful when it comes to proving your case. You can also refer to your notes throughout the process to refresh your memory. Keep a note of your:
- Injuries and how they develop over time
- Physical and mental impact
- Medical treatments and side effects
- Costs related to the injuries (such as physiotherapy expenses and home adjustment costs)
- Unpaid time off work and impact on future employment prospects
Learn About Your Legal Rights
There is a wealth of information available online, but sometimes speaking directly to an expert can make things much simpler. By contacting our advisors, you can get free advice regarding:
- Your eligibility to start making a claim for bulging disc compensation
- What your compensation would likely cover
- Whether one of our expert personal injury solicitors could help you to make a claim
Don’t worry if you’re not sure about starting the legal process, as there is no obligation to follow up after making an enquiry.
Consider The Time Limit For Your Case
It’s important to make sure that you begin your compensation claim for slipped disc injuries within the correct time limit. The time limit for starting a personal injury claim is generally three years from the date of your injuries, in line with the Limitation Act 1980.
Our team can help you find out whether you are within the time limit and provide further details of the evidence you will need. Learn more about the claims process by getting in touch today.
4.8 (466 reviews) Do I Need A Solicitor To Claim Slipped Disc Compensation?
You’re not required to claim slipped disc compensation with the support of a personal injury solicitor. However, we recommend seeking expert guidance to increase the chances of a positive outcome.
If you choose to make your slipped disc claim with us, our team of competent personal injury solicitors can help in the following:
- Explaining and simplifying complicated legal terms.
- Arranging a medical examination to create an official record of your injuries.
- Compiling evidence.
- Valuing your compensation and negotiating your settlement.
- Providing regular updates on the progress of your claim.
- Corresponding with the other party and official authorities on your behalf.
- Analysing the strengths and weaknesses of your case.
The process of making a slipped disc compensation claim may seem complicated and time-consuming. But if you work with one of our solicitors, they will simplify everything, allowing you to focus on your treatment and recovery.
If you would like to speak with a legal expert, please contact our advisors now for a complimentary consultation. Once they determine the eligibility of your claim, they will connect you with a personal injury solicitor.
Claim Compensation For A Slipped Disc With Our No Win No Fee Solicitors
After a slipped disc injury, you might benefit from hiring a No Win No Fee solicitor to help you put together your personal injury claim. Personal injury solicitors who work under this arrangement will offer you a form of No Win No Fee contract called a Conditional Fee Agreement. One advantage of this is that you won’t need to pay your solicitor for their services should your claim fail.
Usually, under this agreement, there are no upfront legal fees whilst ongoing costs accrued during the claims process are covered too. A success fee is deducted from your compensation if your claim succeeds, but you won’t be overcharged as the fee is capped under the Conditional Fee Agreements Order 2013.
If you have suffered a prolapsed or herniated disc, and would like to work with a No Win No Fee solicitor, we could arrange this for you. Furthermore, our expert solicitors can use their experience to let you know the average payout for a personal injury in the UK. To receive free legal advice from our advisors, you can:
- Call us at any for free on 0800 073 8804
- Request a free call back by completing the contact us form
- Use our 24/7 live chat service using the widget on your screen
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Frequently asked questions
See below for common questions we receive regarding claims for slipped disc compensation.
How Long Does A Slipped Disc Compensation Claim Take?
This varies between cases, as some claims are more complex than others. For instance, if the defendant is unwilling to accept liability, settlement may take longer.
Is Bulging Disc Compensation Different From Slipped Disc Compensation?
Compensation for either a bulging or slipped disc will be tailored to reflect the specific ways in which the claimant’s health has been impacted. Therefore, the severity of the disc injury will be assessed regardless.
Can A Bulging Disc Worsen Over Time And Affect Compensation?
Yes, legal professionals assess the future effects of your injuries as part of your compensation award. Therefore, herniated disc compensation can include future disability and the impact of this on a claimant’s employment.
Can You Claim Compensation For Two Slipped Discs?
Yes, you can claim compensation for two slipped discs, as the severity and number of injuries you have experienced will be assessed.
Does Having More Than One Slipped Disc Increase Compensation?
More severe injuries can entitle you to a higher amount of compensation, which may apply if you have multiple slipped discs.
Can You Claim Compensation For A Bulging Disc In The Neck?
Yes, you may claim for a bulging disc in the neck if it resulted from an accident caused by the negligent actions of another party.
What Evidence Is Needed For A Slipped Disc At Work Compensation Claim?
You will need evidence of your slipped disc injury and how exactly another party is responsible for the accident. A copy of your medical records and photos of the accident scene can help with this.
Useful Links On Slipped Disc Compensation Claims
- Get compensation if a driver ran over your foot. Learn about the claims process with our guide.
- Advice on claiming for a soft tissue injury. Learn more about the soft tissue injury claims process with our guide.
- Get more information on the minimum speed for a whiplash claim by reading our informative guide.
