Blair, who was speaking to the Institute for Public Policy Research in London in May, said, “Something is seriously awry when teachers feel unable to take children on school trips for fear of being sued”. He added that a new Compensation Bill, yet to be introduced, aims to limit the activities of claims management companies. It will also clarify the existing law on negligence, making it clear that there is no liability for incidents that could not be avoided by taking reasonable care or exercising reasonable skill.

This is good news at a time when we continue to see the negative effects of the compensation culture in the UK – as demonstrated by the following actual claim settlements recently made by Royal & Sun Alliance.

•  Office employee injured knee climbing down from table after replacing light bulb - £150,000
•  Customer damaged back when delivery man asked householder to assist unloading goods ordered - £243,000
•  Hotel employee slipped on wet floor and sustained injury - £109,000
•  Passer-by injured by falling stonework from a construction site - £300,000
•  Disabled person tripped up and fell out of wheelchair at a club - £1m

So, how can you avoid these types of claims?

Well first and foremost ensure that your Health and Safety procedures are robust, up-to-date, and well documented. And, check that the Limit of Indemnity under your Liability Policy is adequate.

For more information contact John Girling at Ryan Insurance Group on 0800 093 4470 or email john.girling@ryan-group.co.uk

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