Court orders footballer Richard Allen to pay costs over dishonest claim

'Injured' claimant managed to play more than 30 matches post-accident

Court orders footballer Richard Allen to pay costs over dishonest claim

Insurance News

By Terry Gangcuangco

More than 30 – that’s how many matches semi-professional footballer Richard Allen was able to play while claiming to be injured and unable to work following a motor collision in 2017.

Allen’s whiplash claim against managing general agent Tansar has been found fundamentally dishonest. A court ordered the former Salford City FC player to pay costs in excess of £6,000. 

“We are delighted with the outcome of this case; it is testament to our investigation of any claim that we believe to be potentially dishonest and to the good work and strong defence entered by Horwich Farrelly,” commented Tansar claims head Neil Blaney.

Also pleased with the result is the underwriter for Allen’s policy, Gefion Insurance.

“At Gefion we take a robust approach to identifying and investigating suspected dishonest claims,” noted Russell Pollard, the firm’s chief claims director. “It is our moral obligation to prevent premiums paid by honest paying policyholders being used to pay dishonest claimants.”

Meanwhile insurance law firm Horwich Farrelly wants the case to send a strong message to those planning to perpetrate insurance fraud.

“We are thrilled with the outcome of this case because it demonstrates that Horwich Farrelly will continue to fight unmeritorious claims no matter the background of the claimant,” asserted fraud partner Jared Mallinson.

“It once again proves that dishonest claimants come in all shapes and sizes, no matter age, profession, or where they live. The court’s decision to find Allen fundamentally dishonest is a red card to any would-be insurance cheat that they will be caught and face a suitable punishment.”

Following the car accident in which Allen was a passenger, he also played for Longridge Town FC of the North West Counties League Premier Division.

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