20% Of Drivers Have Been Contacted By Personal Injury Firms

With news that insurers are selling on personal information to personal injury firms, new research shows that 20% of British drivers have been contact by these firms.

The new research from Gocompare.com shows that 1 in 5 British drivers have been contacted by personal injury firms to suggest that they may wish to pursue damages claims for injuries caused in an accident.

Even if not badly injured over 10% of respondents would consider using a ‘no win-no fee’ service to claim compensation after a minor accident.

The research also found that 52% feel that the UK is developing a ‘blame and claim’ culture and 33% feel that personal injury lawyers are pushing up the cost of insurance.

Some 3% have used no win-no fee lawyers to get compensation for minor injuries. Only 13% feel that personal injury lawyers provide a useful service.

Lee Griffin, Gocompare.com’s chief operating officer, commented, “Personal injury claims are a major factor of insurance premium inflation. Our research shows that millions of drivers have been contacted by personal injury firms encouraging them to make injury claims following minor accidents.

“If everyone took up their offers the effect on the insurance industry and legal system would be catastrophic with the costs undoubtedly passed on to drivers in the shape of huge insurance premium rises.

“Whilst it is perfectly reasonable for someone with a genuine claim to receive compensation for injuries sustained in an accident, it is time to put a stop to the UK’s growing ‘blame and claim’ culture before it gets out of control.

“The only people who will ultimately benefit from this ambulance chasing are the personal injury lawyers themselves.”

MoneyHighStreet.com comments: “Car insurance premiums are adding to the ever increasing cost of running a car. With personal injury claims adding to the costs, insurers (and others) need to stop passing on personal information in an attempt to earn more themselves.

“We applaud the move from AXA to stop receiving referral fees from personal injury lawyers and hope to see others follow suit.

“Meantime, if your insurance is up for renewal do ensure you compare prices and policy coverage as you buy your new cover.”