Injury Claims in Ireland: Beware of third-party capture

2 minute read

It is common for insurance companies or other organisations to reach out to you soon after an accident, often with the aim of discouraging you from making a claim or persuading you to accept a low settlement offer.

They might stress that accepting would mean avoiding a lengthy and stressful claims process.

This practice, known as third-party capture, typically does not prioritise your best interests. Therefore, it is crucial to seek independent legal advice before accepting any offers or deciding whether to pursue a claim.

Third-party capture can be exploitative and a barrier to justice

When you find yourself in a situation where you may be entitled to compensation, your instinct may be to resolve the matter swiftly, which is understandable given the stress you are likely facing.

However, third-party actors may try to exploit your confusion and vulnerability. In the worst cases, they might mislead you, behave aggressively and attempt to persuade you that seeking legal advice is not in your best interest.

The hidden dangers of third-party capture

Settling your claim quickly might seem appealing, but this approach comes with significant risks. It’s important to remember that if something appears too good to be true, it often is. Third-Party Capture can lead to serious consequences, such as:

1. Undervalued Settlements

Insurers, often publicly traded companies, prioritise profit over your best interest. They may offer a settlement that significantly undervalues your claim, especially if you haven’t sought medical advice or consulted a solicitor.

2. Undetected Injuries

Some injuries may not become apparent immediately. Accepting a quick settlement could leave you without compensation for complications that arise later.

3. Finality of Settlements

Once a claim is settled, reopening it can be extremely difficult, if not impossible. Don’t allow an insurer to put a price on your health without a thorough medical evaluation.

If you had an accident that was not your fault, seek independent legal advice

If you find yourself approached by third-party agents, it is advisable to refrain from commenting and to cease communication. Always consult a solicitor.

Only a solicitor, instructed by you, can provide you with reliable advice that is genuinely in your best interest.

We are personal injury claims experts

If you had an accident on the roads, at work or in a public space, we can help. We especially recommend that you contact us if you have been contacted by a third-party agent such as an insurance representative.

Visit Personal Injury Claims or Contact Us to arrange an initial consultation.

In contentious business, a solicitor may not calculate fees or other charges as a percentage or proportion of any award or settlement.

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