I sympathise fully with the plight of Mr Lock and I am happy for him that his nightmare is finally over.

This incident reminds me of the frustration I faced a few years ago over a simple insurance claim following an accident.

As the insurance companies involved were unable to reach an agreement on the claim, I ended up receiving letters and a writ of summons from the lawyer representing the other driver's insurance company. It took months before the claim was finally settled.

Was it really necessary for insurance companies to undertake legal action in settling minor payouts?

Did the legal costs involved contribute to the high motor insurance premiums we are paying today?

Perhaps it is time for the authorities to set some guidelines on claim processing.

Whatever it is, the cost of making good on a claim should not be disproportionately larger than the amount of the claim.

Jenny Koh Geok Hwa (Mdm)