We are all so obsessed with demanding our pound of flesh, even if it's only a big toe that's been run over by a supermarket trolley, that compensation claims are hitting the roof! Once upon a time we turned a blind eye to tripping over a loose pavement slab, nowadays we aim to hit the culprit for all they've got.

According to recent Norwich Union research, 96% of people in Britain believe we are more likely to seek damages today than we were ten years ago. And while 75% are concerned about the burgeoning 'blame and claim' culture, nearly half say they are more likely to claim themselves. While 21% are really mercenary and admit they would make a claim wherever they can.

Norwich Union suggests that attitudes towards claims has ever since unregulated 'claims farmers, in other words the 'no-win-no-fee' merchants, have increased daytime tv advertising. Yet 31% of us believe this should be banned!

Of course, the legal profession is not going to complain because it's all loads more cash in their coffers. But 21% of us do feel that a government limit should be put on claims and over 60% are of the firm opinion that should get a fixed fee in such transactions as opposed to a percentage of the award.

The Law Society is dutifully seeking to have claims farmers regulated, yet it is in an ideal position to police the practice itself by warning it's members who are taking excessive advantage to reign back or be disciplined!

[ENDS]

Andrew Leech, Cross Reference Tel: 01753 884216