We deal with all types of accidents in public places. The most common claims involve trips or slips.
Trips
- Often such cases involve a tripping accident due to poor maintenance and inspection by a local authority council
- The council has a duty to maintain a good standard of repair and maintenance of public highways and footpaths, so they are not hazardous or pose a danger to the members of the public
- You are entitled to compensation if it can be proved the highway or footpath is defective or in a general state of disrepair causing you to trip and become injured
Slips
- If you slip and fall due to ice on the pavement or a slippery substance on the floor in a shop or place of public use, such as a restaurant, train station or leisure centre
- This is may be due to a lack of proper cleaning and inspection or clearing away debris and spillages to prevent people from falling and becoming injured
- There is a high duty of care owed to the public lawfully using such places
There are various health and safety laws to safeguard members of the public that aim to protect you and give you the right to claim if you have been injured. You should not delay in making a claim as vital evidence may be needed and there is a strict three year time limit in which to make a claim.
If your claim is successful, the compensation you will receive is usually assessed under various categories which include:
General damages
For pain, suffering and loss of quality of life (ie if you are unable to carry out normal activities, such as sports and hobbies).
Special damages
For all losses and expenses you have incurred as a result of your injury, such as loss of earnings, travelling, medication costs, rehabilitation, aids and equipment and assistance with housework or gardening.
Future losses and expenses
As a result of your injury you may be unable to return to work or have to return to a lesser paid job, which may include reduced benefits such as a pension. Such losses may be included in your claim for the likely period of the loss. This may include loss of earnings, rehabilitation, aids and equipment and assistance with home help.
Choosing the right solicitor for your case is an important decision. Do not simply go to the nearest solicitor, or for example the solicitor who did your Will or conveyancing. Use a lawyer who specialises in tripping and slipping claims. Similarly do not feel obliged to use a law firm appointed by your home or other legal expenses insurance. When making a personal injury claim, you should be selective about which lawyer you use and have the freedom to appoint any lawyer of your choice. At SC Law we are experts in dealing with claims for compensation for personal injury.
