What does the verbal threshold refer to in legal claims?

The verbal threshold in legal claims primarily pertains to the standard that must be met for a claimant to pursue compensation for injuries in certain jurisdictions, particularly in relation to motor vehicle accidents. This threshold generally means that only those who have sustained serious injuries—such as those affecting physical health or functions significantly—can file a lawsuit to seek compensation. The intent behind establishing a verbal threshold is to limit the number of minor claims that can clog the court system, reserving legal actions for more significant injuries that have a more profound impact on a person’s life.

In this context, recognizing that the standard set by the verbal threshold necessitates serious injuries ensures that the litigation process is streamlined and focuses on cases that genuinely warrant legal recourse.