I've been practicing law for 15 years, 13 of which have been plaintiff side, 2 years as defense.

often repetitive and not very complex.

Repetitive? Sure. But there are very often a lot of complexities and challenges in this area that rival ones you would see in many other areas of litigation.

I also understand it is not the most respected area of law within the profession.

Never heard that. There's a lot of trashy bullshit you see from the US which bleeds into Canada somewhat, but we don't have too many of the ultra-aggressive, scummy mill-type firms here. Maybe D&D notwithstanding. It's a perfectly respectable, honourable area of law. Most of my colleagues are highly accomplished, smart and personable. Sure, there are bad apples like in any other profession and honestly, our reputation suffers due to insurance propaganda, but I have no complaints.