An unexpected accident in a public place can have serious consequences. Whether you’ve slipped on a wet supermarket floor, tripped over uneven paving or been injured because a public area wasn’t properly maintained, you may be wondering whether you’re entitled to claim compensation.

Not every accident is someone’s fault, but where an injury has been caused by another party’s negligence, you may be entitled to make a public liability claim.

At Bamber & Co Solicitors, we help clients across the UK pursue compensation following accidents in public places. While we’re proudly based in Burnley, our experienced team represents clients nationwide.

What is a public liability claim?

A public liability claim is a personal injury claim made by someone who has been injured because an organisation, business, local authority or occupier of premises failed to take reasonable steps to keep people safe.

Those responsible for public spaces have a legal duty to take reasonable care for the safety of visitors. If that duty has been breached and someone is injured as a result, compensation may be available.

Each case depends on its own facts, and liability is not automatic simply because an accident occurred.

Common types of public liability claims

Public liability claims arise in many different situations.

These may include:

Slip, trip and fall accidents

One of the most common types of public liability claim involves slips and trips caused by hazards such as:

• Wet floors without adequate warning signs
• Uneven or damaged flooring
• Loose carpets or floor coverings
• Spillages left unattended
• Broken paving slabs
• Potholes
• Poorly maintained walkways

Accidents in shops and supermarkets

Retailers owe customers a duty to maintain reasonably safe premises.

Claims may arise where customers suffer injuries due to:

• Falling stock or displays
• Spillages
• Obstructions in aisles
• Defective shelving
• Poor housekeeping

Accidents in restaurants, pubs and hotels

Businesses welcoming members of the public should take reasonable steps to identify and address hazards.

Examples include:

• Slippery floors
• Unsafe staircases
• Broken furniture
• Inadequate lighting
• Poor maintenance

Accidents on public footpaths and highways

Local authorities have statutory responsibilities to inspect and maintain many public highways. In some circumstances, injuries caused by dangerous defects, such as significant potholes or damaged pavements, may give rise to a claim, although there are legal defences available to highway authorities, including where they can show they had taken reasonable steps to inspect and maintain the highway.

Accidents in parks and public spaces

Claims may arise following injuries caused by:

• Unsafe play equipment
• Poorly maintained paths
• Dangerous structures
• Falling branches where reasonable inspections have not been carried out
• Other avoidable hazards

Dog bite and animal-related injuries

Some injuries involving animals may lead to a compensation claim, although liability depends on the circumstances and the applicable law. These cases often require specialist legal advice.

What do you need to prove?

To succeed in a public liability claim, it is generally necessary to show that:

• Someone owed you a duty of care.
• They breached that duty by failing to take reasonable care.
• That breach caused your injury.
• You suffered loss or damage as a result.

Evidence is often crucial.

This may include:

• Photographs of the accident scene
• CCTV footage
• Witness details
• Medical records
• Accident book entries
• Receipts and evidence of financial losses

What compensation can you claim?

If your claim succeeds, compensation may include:

General damages

Compensation for the pain, suffering and loss of amenity caused by your injuries.

Special damages

You may also be able to recover financial losses, including:

• Loss of earnings
• Medical treatment
• Physiotherapy and rehabilitation
• Prescription costs
• Travel expenses
• Care and assistance
• Future financial losses where appropriate

Every claim is assessed individually, taking account of the nature of your injuries and the impact they have had on your life.

Is there a time limit?

In most personal injury claims, court proceedings must usually be started within three years of the date of the accident or the date you first became aware that your injury was linked to another party’s negligence.

Different rules may apply for children, protected parties and certain other circumstances, so it is advisable to seek legal advice as early as possible.

Why choose Bamber & Co Solicitors?

Making a public liability claim can feel daunting, particularly when you’re recovering from an injury.

Our experienced personal injury solicitors provide clear, practical advice and guide clients through every stage of the claims process.

Although our office is based in Burnley, we represent clients across England and Wales through telephone, email and video appointments, making expert legal advice accessible wherever you are. We are also often able to work for you on a no-win-no-fee basis.

We are committed to providing:

• Straightforward legal advice
• Personal service tailored to your circumstances
• Regular updates throughout your claim
• Dedicated representation focused on achieving the best possible outcome

Contact Bamber & Co Solicitors for expert advice on your public liability claim.