Bogus calls about an accident
I currently have an ongoing claim against a car driver that pulled out in front of me. I was only insured third party, so I have decided to pursue the driver’s insurance company myself to recover my repair costs. Despite suffering no injuries, I keep getting nuisance calls from so called lawyers asking whether I want to bring an injury claim. This is really annoying and I would be grateful if you would let me know if there is anything I can do to prevent these calls?
Adam, Durham
Answer
This is a common problem and one I have experienced myself.
Contrary to popular belief, qualified solicitors aren’t allowed to make unsolicited approaches (i.e. cold calls) to members of the public in order to advertise legal services. We also have a duty of confidentially so will never share our clients’ contact details with others without expressed permission.
That said, there are plenty of so called “claims management companies” operating in and around insurance and legal services that do cold call, hoping to make money out of referring claims.
Since April 2019, the Financial Conduct Authority took over regulating claims management companies, so if you are receiving nuisance calls, you can make a complaint to the Financial Ombudsman Service. You are also entitled to report the caller to the Information Commissioner’s Office who will investigate and potentially fine the company involved.
It may also be worthwhile registering your number with the Telephone Preference Service who will add your details to their list which should prevent you from receiving unwanted sales and marketing calls.
As a general rule, if you require legal assistance then you should do your own research and then contact a reputable firm of solicitors directly, rather than rely on a referral from a claims management company, particularly when they have contacted you.
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