MASS picks hole in Aviva whiplash report

The Motor Accident Solicitors Society (MASS) has backed parts of Aviva’s study into excessive cost in motor insurance, but called for more rights for accident victims.

MASS chairman Craig Budsworth said: “Aviva have identified parts of the problem but not come to the right solution. Claimants must have access to independent legal advice.”

Budsworth said that the Aviva report was correct to focus on soaring motor premiums and fraudulent whiplash claims. He said he also agreed with Aviva that claims management companies should be more heavily regulated and that no whiplash claimant should receive money without an independent medical report, but added: “We must not forget the needs and rights of the innocent accident victims.

“The ABI estimates that 7% of claims are fraudulent. It is vital that whatever reforms may be made to the system, the 93% of innocent claimants are not prevented from seeking justice and compensation for their injuries.

“We must not have a system where claimants have to deal directly with insurers whose priority will be to keep their costs down. This would restrict access to the independent legal advice essential to insuring that genuine accident victims receive the compensation they deserve.”