Injury claims
Slips, Trips and Falls
A fall can cause more harm than people expect, from fractures to long-term back and joint problems. If it happened because a place was not kept reasonably safe, you may be able to claim.
When a slip, trip or fall may lead to a claim
Not every fall leads to a claim. The key question is usually whether the person or organisation in control of the place took reasonable steps to keep visitors safe. Occupiers of premises, such as shops, restaurants and offices, owe visitors a duty under the Occupiers’ Liability Act 1957.
Local highway authorities have a duty to maintain public highways, including many pavements. They can defend a claim by showing they had a reasonable system of inspection and repair in place, so evidence about the defect and how long it had been there is often important.
The size of a hazard matters, but it is not the only factor. Location, lighting, footfall and whether there were warnings can all be relevant.
Common situations
- Slipping on a wet or freshly cleaned floor without warning signs
- Tripping on a broken, uneven or raised paving slab
- Falls caused by poor lighting or obstructed walkways
- Falls on stairs with missing or damaged handrails
- Tripping over trailing cables, boxes or stock left in walkways
- Slipping on ice or debris in a car park or entrance area that should have been managed
Your options and next steps
If you can, report the fall to the business or organisation responsible and ask for it to be recorded. Many shops and workplaces keep accident records and may have CCTV, which is often only retained for a short time.
For a pavement defect, photographs with something for scale, such as a tape measure or a coin, are very helpful. Note the exact location so the highway authority can identify it.
We will look at who was responsible for the area, what they should have done to prevent the accident, and how your injury has affected you.
Documents and evidence that may help
You do not need to have everything before you contact us, but the following can help us understand your situation more quickly:
- Photographs of the hazard, ideally with something showing its size
- The exact location, date and time of the fall
- Names and contact details of witnesses
- The accident report or reference number from the business
- A request to preserve any CCTV footage, made as soon as possible
- Details of medical treatment and your recovery
- Receipts for expenses and evidence of lost earnings
How we assess your enquiry
- Tell us what happened. Use the enquiry form, call or email with a short summary.
- We review the details. We may ask a few questions or request key documents.
- We explain your options. Including whether your matter is one we can help with.
- You decide. Nothing goes further until you have agreed the scope of any work and any fees, confirmed in writing.
Frequently asked questions
Is there a minimum size for a pavement defect?
There is no fixed legal minimum. A depth of around one inch (2.5cm) is often discussed, but courts look at all the circumstances, including where the defect was and how busy the area is.
What if I was not looking where I was going?
That may reduce compensation if it contributed to the fall, but it does not automatically prevent a claim. Each case depends on its facts.
How quickly should I act?
As soon as you reasonably can. Hazards are often repaired and CCTV may be deleted, so early photographs and requests for footage can make a real difference.
How long do I have to claim?
Usually three years from the date of the accident.
Please note: this page gives general information based on the law of England and Wales. Different rules can apply in Scotland and Northern Ireland. It is not legal advice and should not be relied on for your particular situation. Every matter depends on its own facts, and no outcome or level of compensation can be guaranteed.
Free initial consultation
Tell us briefly what has happened and we will explain your possible next steps.
Photograph the hazard
Take clear photographs of what caused the fall as soon as possible, before it is cleaned up or repaired.
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Talk to us about your situation
A free initial consultation gives you the chance to explain what has happened and understand your options, with no obligation to go further.
