Work deafness sufferers should not be put off
People with suspected industrial deafness should not be put off taking legal action after insurers warned of rising fraudulent claims, an industrial diseases lawyer suggests.
Robin Selley of Essex & Herts law firm Attwaters Jameson Hill, says:
”It is right that insurers should root out those involved in fraud. The problem is that insurers may now be more inclined to dispute genuine claims, meaning more of these have to reach court and so generate higher costs.
“Where the evidence is clear, it is in everyone’s best interests for the case to be settled by agreement between the parties. A court is quite likely to reach a similar conclusion, but with added cost and stress.”
“Anyone with hearing problems they believe to be due to workplace noise is best advised to consult solicitors with established industrial injuries expertise, who will review the history and take medical evidence only from reputable specialists.
Then they can be sure of an honest legal opinion on whether their claim may be substantiated to the required level of proof, whether this ultimately means settlement with the employer’s insurers or a decision of the courts.”
