Direct settlement of injury claims

Editor
Forum Page
Straits Times

I refer to your article entitled "Case questions cost-saving tactics"
(Straits Times, May 4, 2005)

You reported a comment from a lawyer, Manoj Raj as follows, "Well before we
begin any proceedings, they call my clients and tell them they have no case."

Mr Roy's statement is not correct.

Here is what actually happens. We approach the injured persons and encourage them to make their claims directly with us. This will allow us to make immediate payment to cover their medical expense and loss of earnings. The compensation for permanent injury will be determined at a later date, when the extent of the injury is determined.

Our action is explained in a practice note which is given to the claimant.

Where our policyholder is liable for the accident, which applies to 80% of these cases, our officer will encourage and assist the injured person to make a direct claim. For the remaining cases, our officer will advice the injured person to claim against the actual party at fault. However, if the injured person wish to make a claim against us, they can still do so.

Our aim is to be pro-active in giving prompt and fair compensation to the injured person and to reduce legal expenses.

Tan Kin Lian
Chief Executive Officer
NTUC Income