A new database to prevent false claims entering the compensation process has been launched by the legal profession and the insurance industry.
The service, called askCUE PI (personal injury), will enable approved solicitor organisations to access records of any past claims of potential clients.
Solicitors are encouraged to register to use the service from 5 May. Using AskCUE PI will become mandatory from 1 June.
The Association of British Insurers (ABI) said only approved organisations would be able to use the service, and they would be directed to register their organisation via the Motor Insurers’ Bureau (MIB) services registration portal.
The work was led by the ABI, the MIB, the Motor Accident Solicitors Society (MASS), Association of Personal Injury Lawyers (APIL) and the Law Society.
James Dalton, director of general insurance policy at the ABI, said the development of the service was a "tangible demonstration" of what could be achieved when both sectors worked together.
He added: "There's plenty that we disagree on, but getting the fraudsters and cheats out of the personal injury claims system is something we all agree on, which is why the delivery of askCUE is an important milestone in the ongoing fight against fraud."
Catherine Dixon, Law Society chief executive, said: "This new system means the legal profession and the insurance industry can crack down on fraudulent claims. The collaboration between lawyers and insurers is a huge step forward showing that we can all work together to achieve a common objective which will benefit consumers."
The ABI said upon registration, solicitors could make an unlimited number of enquiries during a12-month period for a fee.
Solicitors who submit a small number of claims a year can register for a set enquiry package, which provides up to 10 searches a year for free.