CARDIFF, UK. June 3, 2026 – Despite significant numbers of people experiencing injuries or illnesses linked to another party’s negligence, far fewer individuals are pursuing compensation than in previous years, according to recent industry data highlighted by Mooneerams Solicitors.
Research published in the Association of Personal Injury Lawyers’ (APIL) Industry Report 2026 shows that personal injury claims have fallen sharply. The total volume of claims has dropped by more than 50% since 2019 and is around 60% lower than it was ten years ago.
The report also identifies a widening disconnect between those who suffer injuries and those who seek legal guidance or compensation.
According to APIL’s findings, almost one-third of adults in the UK reported experiencing an injury or illness caused by someone else’s negligence. Yet only 20% contacted a personal injury solicitor, while 22% relied on their insurer to assist with a claim. A further 44% chose not to pursue a claim at all.
Mooneerams believes the data raises questions about whether longstanding perceptions of a “compensation culture” continue to deter legitimate claimants from obtaining support.
Alistair Worth, Managing Director at Mooneerams, said: “For many years, personal injury lawyers have been criticised for encouraging a compensation culture. However, the evidence now suggests the opposite may be true.
“Large numbers of injured people are choosing not to seek professional advice, even when an accident or incident has left them facing significant physical, emotional or financial challenges.”
The report identifies several reasons for this reluctance, including concerns about legal fees, a lack of trust in solicitors, worries about workplace repercussions, and unease about being perceived as motivated by money.
Mooneerams acknowledges those concerns but says many misunderstandings remain about the purpose of compensation.
“Compensation is not intended to provide a windfall,” Alistair added. “Its purpose is to recognise the impact of an injury while helping individuals recover losses such as reduced earnings, rehabilitation costs, medical expenses, and care requirements.”
The firm also believes greater effort is needed across the legal sector to improve public understanding of personal injury claims and explain funding arrangements such as No Win No Fee agreements.
“Many people mistakenly believe they will face substantial legal costs if they seek advice. In practice, most personal injury cases are handled under No Win No Fee agreements, allowing people to explore their options without paying upfront.”
Mooneerams says the APIL findings should prompt renewed debate about whether the idea of a compensation culture accurately reflects modern Britain.
“Not every injured person will decide to make a claim,” Alistair said. “But people should never feel embarrassed or discouraged from seeking advice when they have been harmed through no fault of their own.”
