Aviva one of the largest insurance companies in Europe recently looked through its accident claims records to find the most unusual and bizarre compensation claims which surprisingly have been reported since the 1860’s!

Who would have thought that a travelling salesman would receive compensation for striking his head on a metal pole whilst standing on the upper deck of a tram in an attempt to catch a better view of another accident.  That will teach him for being so nosy.

And what about the green grocer who in 1878 slipped and fell while playing Blind Man’s Buff? He received the equivalent of  £724 for his injuries!

The old tradition of throwing rice at the bride and groom after a wedding would seem harmless enough but spare a thought for the gentleman who injured his eye as he threw rice at a wedding he was attending in 1892. He received the equivalent of £2994.

There was also the case of a Swansea artist who in 1886 was blown over during a gale and received £1594.

Finally think twice before rushing out of bed to rescue a loved one. A Glasgow gentleman wished be had done so! He injured himself whilst getting out of bed to catch his fainting wife and received the equivalent of £2575 for his trouble!!

As you can see, compensation claims have been around for a very long time. However media coverage and general social acceptance has meant that people who are genuinely entitled to make a claim for their loss or suffering may feel as though public pressure is preventing them from doing so.  If you feel this way you should know that; (1) It will remain highly confidential and you will not be stereotyped for a genuine accident claim; and (2) you do not need to feel forced into making a claim through someone directed to you by an insurance company.

My advice would be to go and see a specialist local solicitor. My team offer a free of charge discussion about Personal Injury in person or over the telephone so that you can make a well informed decision about what you would like to do.

It is also better that you use a local solicitor who you know and trust to take the stress out of what can be an upsetting situation, especially if the accident has caused you particular pain and suffering.  Look for recognised Law Society and Specialist Accreditations so that you know you are getting the best advice and representation possible.

For more information about the service on offer here at JCP Solicitors you can call us on 01792 773 773 or email me, lynne.morgan@jcpsolcitors.co.uk or freephone 0800 915 3003.