Are You Owed Compensation?

Exploring Your Rights 

In today’s world, consumers are becoming increasingly aware of their rights when it comes to compensation for various grievances. Whether it’s a PPI, delayed flight, mis-sold insurance, or environmental harm, there are avenues available for seeking compensation. 

In the UK, several common scenarios warrant compensation claims, ranging from financial services to travel mishaps and environmental concerns. Compensation for day to day things you may not have realised you were entitled to can provide an additional financial bonus when you least expect it.  

At Cockle Finance, we understand the frustrations that can arise when it comes to financial companies, soaring bills, and being unable to source credit when you need it for life’s ups and downs (including holidays, unexpected bills, and wedding loans) . But checking these avenues for potential compensation that you could have occurred over the years is a simple way to make sure you get what you are owed.  Let’s take a look at some of the key areas where you might be entitled to compensation.

1. PPI Mis-selling

You may have heard about the Plevin case related to Payment Protection Insurance (PPI). This wasn’t about whether you needed the insurance or not, but rather if the lender didn’t tell you about the high commission they were getting for selling it. If you were in this situation, you could be owed money back, even if you did need the insurance. It’s another reminder of the importance of understanding the products we buy and our rights as consumers, but an example of something you could be entitled to without realising. 

1. Flight Delays and Cancellations

If you’ve ever experienced the frustration of a delayed or cancelled flight, you may be entitled to compensation under EU Regulation 261/2004. This regulation protects air passengers’ rights and establishes compensation guidelines for flights departing from or arriving in EU countries. Depending on the length of the delay and the distance of the flight, passengers may be eligible for flight compensation ranging up to £520 per passenger. The key is to know your rights and assert them when necessary, as airlines are obligated to compensate passengers for disruptions within their control.

1. Diesel Emissions Scandal

In recent years, the motor industry has been rocked by scandals related to diesel emissions. Volkswagen’s admission in 2015 that it had installed software to cheat emissions tests on millions of its vehicles highlighted the environmental and regulatory implications of such actions. In the UK, affected consumers have pursued legal action against car manufacturers, seeking compensation for the loss of value in their vehicles and the environmental impact of excess emissions. These cases underscore the importance of corporate accountability and consumer protection in the face of environmental harm.

1. Financial Misconduct

Beyond PPI mis-selling, there are numerous other instances of financial misconduct that may entitle consumers to compensation. These can include unfair bank charges, unauthorised transactions, or negligent financial advice. Regulatory bodies such as the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) oversee financial institutions and provide avenues for consumers to report misconduct and seek redress. While navigating the complexities of financial regulation can be daunting, consumers should be aware of their rights and empowered to challenge unfair practices.

1. Data Breaches and Privacy Violations

With the increasing digitisation of personal information, data breaches and privacy violations have become a significant concern for consumers. In the event of a data breach, organisations may be liable for failing to adequately protect sensitive information, potentially exposing individuals to identity theft or financial harm. Under the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), individuals have the right to seek compensation for damages resulting from data breaches. This includes compensation for financial losses, emotional distress, and reputational damage caused by the mishandling of personal data.

In conclusion, whether it’s reclaiming mis-sold insurance, seeking compensation for travel disruptions, or challenging financial misconduct, consumers in the UK have rights and avenues for seeking compensation. By staying informed about their rights and taking action when necessary, individuals can protect themselves and hold businesses accountable for their actions. Remember, if you believe you’re owed compensation for any reason, don’t hesitate to seek advice from legal professionals or regulatory authorities to explore your options. You may be entitled to valuable funds you didn’t know about.