Personal injury news

Sporting personal injury claims in New Zealand could rise

New research has shown that thrill seekers in New Zealand have cost thousands of dollars in personal injury claims.

The report based on accident compensation claims was carried out by a team of researchers from the University College of Business in Auckland.

The study reveals that of the 18,500 claims made in 2005, $12 million was paid out to casualties suffering personal injuries whilst taking part in adventure sports.

Over half of the claims included in the research involved activities such as horse riding, mountain biking, tramping, and surfing, as opposed to more dangerous activities including bungee jumping and sky diving.

Lead researcher, Dr Tim Bentley, said, "The findings suggest the need to investigate whether regulatory intervention in the form of codes of practice for the high injury activities such as horse riding and mountain biking may be necessary."

With more and more people taking part in adventure activities every year, it may be probable that we will see a number of personal injury claims being made in the future.