Law Society offer advice to severely injured victims

Written by Gaynor Haliday Edited by Chris Salmon Share:

Injuries to the brain and spine can be life-threatening and life-altering events, leading to long-term health consequences and financial insecurity. Long periods of rehabilitation may result in lost earnings at a time when additional funds may be needed to pay for care and support.

Law Society Chief Executive, Des Hudson, has recommended that victims of a brain or spine injury seek the advice of a solicitor experienced in handling such claims. He said:

"Serious and debilitating injuries, loss of earnings or an inability to lead a normal life must not to be glibly dismissed in the myth of ‘compensation culture'... It is absolutely vital that they get the compensation they deserve in order to pay for the support and care they may need, for months, years or lifetimes."

Two to Three times the compensation

This advice follows a recent campaign advising that victims of muggings and other criminal injury seek the professional legal advice of a solicitor before accepting their insurer's offer. According to statistics published by the Financial Services Authority, on average, a claimant injured in a mugging receives 2-3 times the compensation offered by an insurer, if they follow the advice of a lawyer.

In relation to the campaign, Mr Hudson argued:"we need to make a clear message, see your solicitor, don't accept the insurers' first offer".

Gaynor Haliday, Legal researcher

Author:
Gaynor Haliday, Legal researcher