Personal Injury Claims: Slip, Trip, and Fall
Slip, trip, and fall injuries often occur on roads, pavements, or inside premises. Local county councils are responsible for maintaining public pathways and ensuring proper lighting. If someone falls due to poor upkeep, they may have grounds for a claim, but they must prove the council’s negligence (malfeasance). Simply having potholes or bumps on old roads does not automatically make the council liable (non-feasance).
Workplace injuries are common, and employers must ensure a safe environment and proper access to and from work. Supermarkets are also frequent sites of accidents due to spilled liquids creating slippery conditions.
Public building owners, like museums, must ensure safety for visitors. For example, an Australian tourist won a claim after slipping on slippery museum steps, resulting in a €67,000 award for his injuries.
Common injuries in slip, trip, and fall cases include:
- Bruises, cuts, and abrasions
- Sprains
- Fractures
- Head injuries
Contributory Negligence
If the injured person is partly at fault (e.g., alcohol consumption), the court may reduce the damages awarded.
What to Do If Injured in a Fall:
- Seek medical attention and record details.
- Collect witness information if possible.
- Report the accident to the responsible authority.
- Gather evidence, including photos of the scene.
- Keep records of medical treatments, prescriptions, and related expenses.
Consult a solicitor within 2 years of the injury, as this is the standard time limit for personal injury claims. Exceptions may apply, and a solicitor can provide advice.
