09 Sep Concern over PI claims increase
NISO expresses concern at rise in personal injury claims in 2015
National Irish Safety Organisation (NISO) has expressed its concern over figures recently published by the injuries Board in its mid-year review. The Injuries Board reports that 17,132 new claims have been made in the first six months of 2015 representing a 7% increase on the 15,987 new claims received in the same six month period in 2014. The mid-year review also reveals that workplace claims are up 8.5%, accidents in public places are up by almost 9% and motor claims are up 6%.
Commenting on the six month figures, Mr. Maurice Priestley, Interim CEO at the Injuries Board, stated: “It is not surprising that there has been a modest increase in claims volumes year to date given the general economic upturn with more people at work and a lot more vehicles on the road. Greater economic activity would be expected to generate greater numbers of policies and premium income for insurers.”
In response, NISO President, Pauric Corrigan, has stated that “While National Irish Safety Organisation welcomes the recent upturn in the economy and the volumes returning to work, it is now more important than ever for employers and employees to keep health and safety awareness at the forefront. With more and more people joining the workforce, health and safety must be the top priority to help prevent the continuation of this upward trend in accidents and claims.”
The average compensation award for the first six months of 2015 is €22,375, compared to an average award of €22,082 in the same period last year.
Please click here for the Injuries Board press release.