Public and occupiers' liability

Slips, Trips and Falls

Claims against shops, supermarkets, councils, landlords and anyone else responsible for a place that was not reasonably safe.

Occupiers have to take reasonable care that visitors are safe. That does not make them responsible for every accident. It makes them responsible for the ones a proper system of inspection and cleaning would have prevented.

So these claims come down to a question of records. How often were the aisles checked? Was the spill signed? When was that paving slab last inspected, and what did the inspector write down? Supermarkets and local authorities keep these documents, and they are obliged to disclose them.

Photographs taken at the time are worth more than any description later. If you can, photograph the hazard, the surrounding area and any warning signs, or the absence of them, before anything is cleaned up.

What you can claim for

Fractures, ligament damage and head injuries
Loss of earnings while you are unable to work
Private physiotherapy where waiting lists are long
Damaged clothing, glasses and personal belongings
Care and assistance at home
Ongoing symptoms and future treatment

Cases we handle

Spillages and wet floors in shops and supermarkets
Uneven paving, raised kerbs and unlit steps
Potholes and defective pavements
Poorly maintained communal areas in rented flats
Ice and snow left untreated on business premises
Accidents in pubs, restaurants, gyms and hotels

Time limits Three years from the date of the accident in most cases. Claims against a local authority for a highway or pavement defect are subject to the same three years, but the defect is often repaired quickly, so report it and photograph it as soon as you can.

Free initial consultation

Speak to a solicitor today

Tell us what happened and we will tell you honestly whether you have a claim. The first conversation is free, there is no obligation, and if we take your case on it is on a No Win No Fee basis.

Start your claim 0161 637 8010