Is somebody responsible for your accident?

Nearly every place outside the home is covered by the Occupiers’ Liability Act 1957. This Act requires those with control over premises to be responsible for preventing hazards that might harm visitors.

For workplaces, the relevant legislation is the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974. This ensures that employers are responsible for their employees' health, safety, and welfare in the workplace.

Under this legislation, there is the responsibility to:

• Assess and create an environment that is as safe as possible.
• Display clear signs warning people about risks, e.g. slippery floors.
• Make sure fixtures and fittings are maintained.
• Take extra safety precautions if children or vulnerable adults use the premises.
• Not conduct unsafe activities on the premises, which could cause injury to another person.

When safety precautions are inadequate, you may be able to claim compensation for a slip, trip or fall.

Is there a time limit for slips, trips and falls claims?

You normally have three years from the date of an accident to make a slip, trip or fall claim. This is longer if you are claiming compensation on behalf of somebody with a mental impairment or a child.

Those below the age of eighteen cannot claim compensation themselves until their 18th birthday. They then have three years from their 18th birthday to make a claim.

Despite legal time limits, it is best to start a claim as soon as possible because it is easier to gather evidence while the accident is still clear in people’s minds.

What information do you need to start a claim?

The following evidence is helpful to support your claim:

• A copy of the accident book record. If you reported an accident at work or in a shop, it should be recorded in their accident book. You are entitled to receive a copy.
• Witness contact details.
• Photographs of your injuries, location or cause of the accident. It is helpful if photographs are taken soon after your accident.
• Medical evidence. See a doctor as soon as possible after your accident. As well as looking after your injury, they will also be able to provide evidence.
• Your own notes. Note down the details of what happened as soon as you can after the accident.

The more documented evidence you have supporting your claim, the easier it is to build a strong case.