CARDIFF, UK. June 3, 2026 – Fresh industry research suggests that while many people continue to suffer injuries caused by negligence, the number of individuals pursuing compensation has fallen significantly, according to comments from Mooneerams Solicitors.
Data contained within the Association of Personal Injury Lawyers’ (APIL) Industry Report 2026 indicates that personal injury claims have experienced a substantial decline. Claim numbers are now more than half what they were in 2019 and have fallen by approximately 60% over the last decade.
The report highlights a notable disparity between injury rates and the willingness of affected individuals to seek legal assistance.
APIL found that almost one in three UK adults had experienced an injury or illness attributable to another party’s negligence. Nevertheless, only one-fifth sought advice from a personal injury solicitor. While 22% received support from their insurer when making a claim, 44% did not pursue compensation at all.
Mooneerams says the figures challenge the commonly repeated narrative that Britain is dominated by a compensation culture.
Alistair Worth, Managing Director at Mooneerams, commented: “The suggestion that personal injury lawyers are driving a compensation culture has been repeated for years, yet these statistics point in the opposite direction.
“What they show is that many people who may have valid claims are not seeking legal guidance, despite suffering potentially serious consequences.”
Among the reasons cited for avoiding legal advice were concerns about costs, distrust of legal professionals, worries about employer reactions, and concerns about how making a claim might be viewed by others.
While recognising these concerns, Mooneerams says there remains considerable confusion about the role compensation plays.
“Compensation exists to help people rebuild after an injury,” Alistair said. “It can acknowledge the suffering experienced while also helping to cover lost income, rehabilitation expenses, treatment costs and additional support needs.”
The firm further notes that legal professionals must continue working to improve transparency and public confidence, particularly regarding No Win No Fee arrangements.
“Many injured people still believe pursuing a claim is financially out of reach. In reality, No Win No Fee agreements mean most people can obtain legal advice without paying upfront.”
Mooneerams believes the report offers an opportunity to reconsider whether the phrase “compensation culture” remains relevant today.
“Seeking advice after a negligence-related injury should not carry stigma,” Alistair added. “People deserve the information they need to make informed decisions about their circumstances.”
