Accidents can happen suddenly, even in places where we least expect them. Whether it’s a slip in a supermarket, a trip on a defective pavement, or a fall in a restaurant or shopping centre, injuries sustained in public areas can be serious and life-changing.
At Aston Knight Solicitors, we have extensive experience in helping clients bring public liability claims after being injured in public spaces. Our dedicated personal injury solicitors will fight to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
What is a public liability claim?
A public liability claim is the process of seeking compensation for injuries sustained in a public place or on property open to the public, such as supermarkets, shopping centres, entertainment venues, or public highways.
You may bring a claim against the occupier or owner of the premises, who will usually have a public liability insurance policy in place to deal with such claims.
Businesses, councils, and local authorities all have a duty to ensure that public spaces are safe. If they fail to meet this duty of care and you are injured as a result, you may be entitled to compensation.
Types of Public Liability Accidents
At Aston Knight Solicitors, we have successfully recovered damages for clients across a wide range of accidents in public places, including:
- Supermarket accidents – slips and falls in-store or in car parks.
- Council and highway claims – injuries caused by defective pavements, potholes, or uneven surfaces.
- Slips, trips and falls – common in shops, restaurants, pubs, arcades, and leisure centres.
- Sports-related injuries – sustained either as a participant or a spectator.
- Animal-related incidents – such as dog bites, livestock on roads, or other animal-caused harm.
- Children’s accidents – including injuries at school, in playgrounds, or in other public areas.
How to Make a Public Liability Claim
To bring a successful claim, it must be shown that your accident was caused by negligence or a breach of duty. You can help strengthen your case by:
- Seeking medical attention and keeping records of your treatment.
- Take photographs of your injuries and the accident location.
- Reporting the accident to staff or the relevant authority and ensuring it is logged in an accident book.
- Gathering witness names and contact details.
- Making notes about the location, time, and circumstances, and checking for CCTV footage.
Our solicitors will guide you through the process, obtain expert evidence where necessary, and handle negotiations with the other side on your behalf.
Case Study
Trip on Defective Pavement
Aston Knight Solicitors recovered over £80,000 in compensation for Ms E, who was injured after tripping on a defective pavement in January 2014. At the time of the accident, her right arm was already in a sling, meaning she landed heavily on her left elbow.
Initially diagnosed with a fracture, Ms E later developed arthritis in the elbow along with persistent pain, discomfort, and restricted movement. Her injuries also caused significant psychological problems, including depression, anxiety, and agoraphobia, due to the difficulties she faced in coping without the use of either arm.
We instructed leading experts in orthopaedic surgery and psychiatry, who confirmed that the accident was responsible for both the arthritis and the psychological symptoms. The Defendant, however, adopted a combative approach, arguing that her arthritis was age-related and her psychological issues were unrelated to the accident.
The case proceeded to a three-day trial at Brighton County Court before HHJ Venn, where the judge preferred the evidence of our experts. The court found in Ms E’s favour and awarded her over £80,000 in damages, including penalty costs because she had beaten her own settlement offer.
This case highlights not only the serious impact that public place accidents can have, but also the importance of robust legal representation in challenging contested claims.
Why Choose Aston Knight Solicitors?
- Experienced specialists in accidents in public places and public liability claims
- Strong record of securing high-value settlements, even in contested cases
- No win, no fee funding available
- Compassionate, client-focused service throughout your claim
- Access to leading independent medical and rehabilitation experts
Start Your Public Liability Claim Today
If you’ve been injured in a public place due to poor maintenance or negligence, Aston Knight Solicitors can help. We’ll investigate your case thoroughly, secure expert evidence, and fight to achieve the maximum compensation on your behalf.
You may also be interested in our related pages: Workplace Accident Claims and Road Traffic Accident Claims.
Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation about your potential accident in a public place claim.
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