The Association of Personal Injury Lawyers (APIL) made the following statement today...

The Association of Personal Injury Lawyers (APIL) made the following statement today in relation to the proposed Compensation Bill, as outlined in the Queen's speech:

“The Government's Compensation Bill is a prime opportunity to clarify misconceptions about the law relating to compensation. There is a real need for education to make it clear that compensation is only available where there has been avoidable injury, and not for accidents.

“Confusion about this issue has resulted in an explosion of near-hysterical press stories and irrational public announcements. There is no need to ban conkers, close playgrounds or cancel school trips. Provided health and safety guidelines are followed, there is nothing to fear from litigation.

“What is important is that people are protected from the sorts of needless injuries which can be avoided through the proper assessment of risk. This does not mean wrapping people in cotton wool – proper assessment of risk is about promoting activity rather than restricting it.”

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