UP TO €50K FROM A BOGUS CLAIM

INSURERS pay out wildly different sums, from €4,000 up to €50,000, to those involved in minor traffic collisions. These images, right, relate to 10 cars involved in incidents which generated 12 injury claims which resulted in payouts totalling some €150,000. One person received €50,000. Low-speed impacts resulting in personal injury claims is a major problem for the industry. Aviva fraud manager Robert Smyth, said: ‘I fully accept injuries can arise from such minor impacts but it’s very evident that many claimants are exaggerating their injuries. The problem is aggravated because the awards in court are inconsistent and, on many occasions, excessive. It encourages fraudsters to roll the dice.’

It’s also led to some insurers settling claims for small sums simply to avoid the legal and investigation costs.