How many others will think if he can do that why can't I.
Im not overly familiar with the case other than it is a case to try and hold onto a property, as distinct from others making fraudulent insurance claims.
I have no doubt that there are plenty of people who try exploit, manipulate the rules or simply try to defraud the system if they see an opportunity.
But I also consider that many people have genuine grievances, genuine claims to make, or have a genuine objectives in protecting their own interests.
I understand the disdain at people who make fraudulent claims, but there also appears to be disdain afforded to people who are simply protecting their own interests. See post #6
The compo culture is a symptom of this but so is the "I have a right to..." and "I am entitled to..." culture.
I made an insurance claim once before against Dublin Bus. A bus pulled out of a lane and took the front left side of my car off.
I made a claim, because I was entitled to, because I have a right to, and sure enough, Dublin Bus admitted liability and paid for damage and repairs to my car.
I also had to visit a hospital consultant. Who charged me €120. My insurance, that I pay for, entitles me to claim €60 of this cost back. It is my right to claim this back. So I did.
And for the most part, outside of fraudulent claims, that is all that people are doing - protecting their interests as is their right and entitlement to do so.
The fact that the compensation system appears to award extravagant payouts to claimants is not the fault of the claimants. If they can prove liability, they are entitled to seek redress.
Overall, with regard to the OP and in my opinion, everything suggests that people in general do take personal responsibility for their actions. Taking out insurance policies, on your house, your car, your mortgage, your health etc is a sign of that.