Some people say the so-called "Law of Unintended Consequences" is the most powerful law in the universe.

I'm not sure about that, but I am sure that we need to be wise when seeking to help people. That is one reason why I don't get excited about trade boycotts or consumer boycotts- often the people we tihnk we are helping are actually hurt by our actions.

Now you moght think that a scheme where people involved in accidents get compensation from the Government would be a Good Thing. But sometimes such no fault schemes lead to more accidents, more injuries and more deaths- as New Zealand is finding out.

From the ABC:

NZ law may be contributing to workplace accidents
By New Zealand correspondent Dominique Schwartz

 Researchers at Auckland University say New Zealand's accident compensation system may be contributing to the country's high level of workplace fatalities and injuries.

A study by the University's Commercial Law Department says the country's rate of workplace fatalities is double that of Australia and four times higher than Britain's.

The father of a Briton killed in New Zealand says the country's legal system will lead to more tragedies in the adventure tourism industry.

Chris Coker's 24-year-old son Bradley was killed when a skydiving plane crashed at Fox Glacier two years ago.

Coker was among nine people – including 18-year-old Australian Glen Bourke – who died in the crash.

Accident investigators highlighted failings by the pilot, the skydiving company and the civil aviation regulator.

But under New Zealand's no-fault accident compensation system, organisations cannot be sued for damages.

Research by the Commercial Law Department at Auckland University has found that the no-fault system may make companies more complacent about safety.

The New Zealand government is conducting an independent review of workplace safety.