Slips, Trips And Falls Accident Claims
Claiming Compensation For Slips, Trips And Falls
Falling over in a public place can be very embarrassing and painful. The most common reaction is to look around to see if anybody was watching and then if able to, carry on as normal trying to forget what just happened. What we should do is investigate why this happened by examining the floor surface for defects, spills or obstructive items.
This simple step could help you to determine whether your fall was the result of your own negligence or that of the property owner.
Property owners have an obligation to maintain their property—keeping it free from hazards and obstructions that may prove harmful to others. When a property owner fails to keep their property safe, they assume liability for accidental falls, slips, and tripping accidents that occur as a result of their negligence.
To keep things clear and concise the following 3 categories best define the properties being discussed:
- Business Establishments - These include shops, restaurants, leisure centres etc.
- Private Homes
- Pavement and Roads - Usually the responsibility of the local Council who have a duty to maintain the areas to a reasonable standard.
Some typical slip, trip and fall accident causes:
- Trip/Falls on defective pavements such as ice, snow, holes, raised pavement blocks, cracked or crumbling concrete, debris.
- Slip/Falls caused by oil, grease, water, liquids, or food on the floor
- Falls down stairs due to poor lighting, lack of handrail, broken or uneven steps or slipperiness.
- Trip/Falls on tree roots, cords, or wires on the ground.
- Slip/Falls on slippery floor surfaces or floor coverings.
- Trip/Falls at blocked store aisles.
If you injure yourself by slipping on a wet floor or tripping over a broken paving slab, for example, you’re probably entitled to claim compensation.
If you have been injured, whether on private or public property, you may wish to make a personal injury compensation claim against the individual or company whose negligence contributed to your injury.
Still not sure?
If you have any questions please check our faqs.
For more information on accidents resulting from slips, trips and falls visit the Health and Safety Executive website at http://www.hse.gov.uk/slips/
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