Slipping accidents are very common in everyday life. We come across slipping accidents in supermarkets/shops as well as slipping accidents in the workplace all the time. If you have slipped and sustained injury and it was not your fault, you may well be entitled to claim compensation.
This type of accident would come under something known as occupier’s liability (if it happened in a supermarket or shop for example). Basically the occupier of premises is under a duty to keep the premises reasonably safe and to keep people on the premises safe and free from harm. Under occupier’s liability, there is a different level of care depending if the person on the premises is legally there (i.e. a visitor to a supermarket) or if the person is there illegally (i.e. is a trespasser). It is surprising for many but trespassers (that is someone on the premises illegally) are still owed a duty of care. Trespassers may be able to claim if they sustain injury on the premises. However most people will of course be legal visitors, such as when you enter a supermarket or shop to browse or to buy shopping.
If you slip and sustain injury at work, it will be dealt with as an accident at work. Your employer has a duty to keep you reasonably safe and free from harm whilst you are at work acting in your employment. If you are undertaking your normal working duties and you slip (perhaps on a wet floor for example) and sustain injuries, it is likely that you have a genuine claim.
It is understandable that people are reluctant to bring a claim against their employers, perhaps due to fears about their job security. It is always your choice but you should obtain the necessary advice, so that you can make an informed decision. It is often the case that, following an accident, people do not initially think about claiming. However some people then realise the reality of the situation, such as that they are going to have to take time off work for example. The reality is that if you slipped and sustained injury at work and it was not your fault, you may be able to make a claim.
It is your right to make a claim but it is also your choice as to whether or not you exercise that right. However you should be aware that there is a limitation period of 3 years – you must either settle your claim or have issued court proceedings within 3 years of the date of the accident. If your case is not settled or issued within this 3 year period then you will lose your right to claim compensation.
We deal with all types of personal injury claims. We have dealt with many slipping accident claims so we know what it takes to bring a successful claim.
For a free chat about a potential claim do not hesitate to contact us today.
