Trips/Slips (Public/Occupier’s Liability)
Public/Occupier’s liability claims is a legal process whereby a person can claim compensation for injuries resulting from an accident in a public place or property open to the public such as a supermarket/entertainment venue. For example, you can bring a personal injury claim against the occupier/owner of the premises, as they should have a public liability insurance policy who will deal with the claim against them.
Common public and occupier’s liability accidents include:-
- Accidents in supermarket
- Shops
- Parks
- Car parks
- Bars/restaurants
- Outdoor play areas/Indoor play centres
- Dog Attacks
With any public/occupier’s liability claim wherever possible it is important that you try to obtain as much evidence as possible to support that your accident was caused as a result of the Defendant’s breach of statutory duty.
For example, if you slipped on a wet surface in a supermarket due to a spillage, it would be advisable to:-
- Report your accident to a member of staff. Take details of their name and position within the company and request that an accident report form is completed. Request a copy of the accident report once completed.
- Take photographs of the spillage. It is advisable to take a close up photograph and one from a distance to show the surrounding area.
- Make a note of the name/addresses/contact numbers of any witnesses?
- Ask whether there is any CCTV which covers the area and, if so, request to see a copy.
- Seek medical assistance (if required) and keep a record of your attendance and the date in which you attended.
- Keep evidence of any losses (i.e damage to clothing, travel expenses too and from hospital)
How can Best Solicitors Help me?
We know that sustaining an injury can be physically and emotionally distressing. It can lead to added extra stress on top of day to day life, uncertainty and unanswered questions. Here at Best we believe it is important that you instruct a solicitor and get the right support at a very early stage in your claim. We can ensure that you receive the maximum amount of compensation that you are entitled to. We will ensure you receive the very best advice from the outset in progressing your claim. This is achieved by not only valuing your claim for damages, but also by understanding what other losses you may have incurred. We will then endeavour to put you back in the same financial position you were in before the accident occurred.
How Will I Fund my Claim?
We offer “no win no fee” funding for personal injury claims. This means that you will not have to pay our legal fees out of your own pocket.
How Long do I Have to Make a Claim?
You only have 3 years from the date of the accident to make a claim. If the case involves a child the 3 years will begin after the date of their 18th birthday. In some circumstances the 3 years may run from when you became aware of the injury.
How Do I Make an Appointment?
Contact us to make an appointment by telephone 0114 281 3636 or email – civilenquiries@bestsolicitorsonline.co.uk to make an appointment. We have offices in Sheffield, Barnsley, Stocksbridge and Filey. In certain circumstances we can offer home visits should you not be able to attend a face to face consultation at one of our offices.