> wasting countless hours of time and risking tens of thousands in legal fees if you lose

That's a huge exaggeration. For example in the UK (not in the EU now I know, but roughly the same and I know the system better) you're looking at risking under £200. The loser will pay the fees. If you're certain that you're owed compensation under the law then there's little risk to take.

Source: https://www.moneysavingexpert.com/reclaim/small-claims-court...