It has been a long time coming but sooner or later those claims folk are going to get it.

It has become ridiculous don't you think...there is more to life than going to put a claim in.

Who does everyone think they are kidding?

I know someone who hit a car the other day and it wasn't even his fault and the fellow was already putting a claim in before calling the police.

"Hello, I've had a little accident," he pleaded down the phone.

"Wait there son, I'm coming round with everyone and we can all claim together. Christmas has come early for the clan this year."

The guilt trip soon follows. "Do you know I have to go to work in the morning? Can you hire me a car? My wife is pregnant.

"Who's going to take her to the hospital now? I only just got a brand new £3,000 exhaust fitted."

The car was only worth £2,000!

There was nothing wrong with his vehicle.

A scratch on a bumper does not mean the car is a write off!

After some silly conversations people part company and that is my friend's worst bit, because you know for a fact that the next few weeks are going to be hell.

Phone calls from the insurance company, and some shrill lawyer.

When everything is done and dusted you might even get a call from one of your own friends.

They want you to say they were in the car too so they can take a couple of months off work and put a claim in.

And if you don't claim, everyone thinks you're stupid. "I respect you but I think you should put a claim in ... everyone does it ... do you know I got five grand last year?"

Some people think they've won the lottery!

Then there are the really sincere and quiet types who don't say anything when they crash into your car. Beware of this lot. These are the most dangerous ones around.

At the time of the crash they say nothing.

But as soon as you head off home you might as well kiss your life goodbye.

Within weeks you will receive calls from insurance companies saying the guy had to take a week off work because of all the mental stress he suffered.

On top of that his car is a total write-off, as is his brother's car (which wasn't even involved in the crash).

And three other people in the motor (all of whom weren't there!) are all claiming for stress fractures to the skull!

Blimey, all that from a little bump.