CARDIFF, UK. June 3, 2026 – The number of people bringing personal injury claims has continued to decline, even though negligence-related injuries remain common across the UK, according to industry findings highlighted by Mooneerams Solicitors.
The Association of Personal Injury Lawyers’ (APIL) Industry Report 2026 reveals a substantial reduction in claims activity. Compared with 2019, claim volumes have dropped by more than half, while the decline over the last ten years is estimated at around 60%.
Researchers also found evidence that many injured individuals are deciding not to pursue compensation or legal advice.
Survey results showed that nearly a third of UK adults had suffered an injury or illness caused by another party’s negligence. However, only 20% contacted a personal injury solicitor, while 22% used support from their insurer. Almost half chose not to make any claim.
According to Mooneerams, the findings suggest that concerns surrounding compensation claims may still be influencing public behaviour.
Alistair Worth, Managing Director at Mooneerams, said: “There has long been a perception that compensation claims are too common, but these figures tell a different story.
“Many people who have suffered genuine harm appear reluctant to seek advice, even when the consequences may be serious and long-lasting.”
The report outlines several factors behind this reluctance, including apprehension about legal fees, scepticism towards solicitors, concerns about employer relationships, and discomfort about claiming compensation.
Mooneerams says these views are understandable but believes misconceptions about compensation remain widespread.
“Compensation serves an important purpose,” Alistair added. “It can help people recover financially after an injury by covering lost earnings, rehabilitation, treatment and care costs, while also recognising the impact the incident has had on their lives.”
The firm also argues that the legal industry must continue improving public understanding of how claims are funded and managed.
“There is still a widespread belief that making a claim involves significant upfront expense. In most cases, No Win No Fee agreements allow people to seek advice without taking on that financial risk.”
Mooneerams hopes the APIL research will encourage discussion about whether concerns over a compensation culture reflect current realities.
“People who have been injured because of someone else’s negligence should never feel deterred from exploring their legal options,” Alistair said.
