Editor’s comment


Same old story O


Marek Handzel is the Editor of Claims Magazine


ut with the old, in with the, er, kind of the same. Forgive the cynicism, but let's face it, the prospects in 2014 for many in the


claims sector aren't looking much rosier than they did at the start of 2013. Firstly, CMCs are still persona non grata, thanks


to a highly visible and active minority that continue to break the rules, particularly in the realm of unsolicited calls and text messages. As long as these rogue companies pursue their questionable sales techniques then the public will always support almost any draconian measures that the Ministry of Justice draws up against the sector. Secondly, given that such CMC activity still


tarnishes honest personal injury solicitors, it feels as if Chris Grayling could be persuaded to press the nuclear button on the small claims limit at any point this year. But any signifi cant rise to the small claims limit for PI cases could backfi re for the Government, potentially giving CMCs a new lease of life as they step into the gap that solicitors will no doubt leave. Thirdly, the Competition Commission has


left some questioning what will happen with the proposed credit hire portal system with its preliminary report into motor insurance premiums. The report has put pressure on insurers and credit hire companies, in particular with its insistence that the latter's repair standards are simply not good enough for the prices they charge. The Commission may well have left an open invitation for the Government to come in and force further change. Although raising standards is of course


welcome, credit hire companies will be waiting anxiously to see how the law of unintended consequences plays out with any intervention. And fi nally, this year will usher in some


signifi cant changes in and around medical expert assessment and reporting. Will the introduction of medical expert panels really lead to the demise of pre-medical report settlement off ers? Or will they become the captives of the insurance industry? In light of all this possible further alteration


for the industry, we've asked some high profi le commentators to share their hopes and fears for the next 12 months with us. To read about what they have to say have a look at pages 28 to 31. Whatever 2014 will bring, Claims Magazine


will keep looking at the facts and fi gures behind the headlines, keeping you informed of the changes that you need to keep on top of, through the magazine, our website and of course our conference, which takes place this year in Manchester on 13 March. The theme for this year's event is reinvention,


as we refl ect the way the sector has had to, and continues to, adapt to its new surroundings. To fi nd out more about the topics and speakers, and how to book your place, turn to page 19. And keeping with the theme of changes and


wishes for 2014, please remember that Claims Magazine is always open to its readers. If there's something you want to see covered,


discussed or investigated then please do get in touch. We'd love to hear from you.


Claims Magazine/Issue 11/ 05


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