did not approach a PI lawyer as they did “not trust personal injury lawyers” to have their “best interests at heart” 17% did not approach a PI lawyer as they were concerned about how much a lawyer would cost 28% did not approach a PI lawyer as they were focused on their recovery, and “did not think a PI lawyer would be able to help with that” 29% PAGE 21 Misconceptions are preventing victims from pursuing justice APIL’s in-depth research with victims who did not approach a PI lawyer found that negative perceptions about the claims process are deterring them from claiming compensation: Claiming compensation is too expensive A lawyer would not address their key needs Time-consuming and stressful process These victims thought that making a compensation claim would be an expensive process that they could not afford. Ultimately, they felt that claiming would worsen, rather than alleviate, the financial pressures they face. Injured people did not think that PI lawyers could meet their key needs and priorities. This was driven by a lack of awareness that PI lawyers secure rehabilitation, answers and emotional support – not just compensation. Victims perceive the claims process to be a daunting experience which is stressful and time-consuming. This deters them from claiming, particularly when they want to focus their limited time and energy on actions which support their recovery. MISCONCEPTIONS ABOUT THE LEGAL PROCESS DO NOT ONLY PAVE THE WAY FOR DAMAGING ‘REFORMS’ – THEY ALSO DETER INJURED VICTIMS FROM APPROACHING A PI LAWYER AND GETTING THE SUPPORT THEY NEED:
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