Much Can I Claim for Falling in a Shop?

Whether you’re doing your weekly grocery shop or you’re just nipping to the local store for some bits and bobs, the last thing you expect is to have a fall. But unfortunately, falls in public places are dangerous, and shops are no exception. 

At CEL Solicitors, we are here to guide you through your claim. Read on to learn all about claiming after a fall in a shop – whether you were a customer or employee – and how we can help you secure the compensation you deserve. 

Common Causes of Shop Falls

Falls in shops can happen for many reasons – most of which are a result of negligence or unsafe conditions. Some of the most common causes of shop falls include:

• Wet floor
• Poor lighting
• Uneven flooring
• Clutter
• Inappropriate footwear
• Icy floor 

If your fall was caused by one of these hazards, you may be entitled to make a slips, trips and falls claim.

Common Injuries From Falling in a Shop 

Slips, trips and falls in shops can cause mild to life-changing injuries, such as:

• Broken bones or fractures – Many falls result in broken wrists or arms, as these are used to break the fall. 
• Head or brain injuries – Head injuries, such as a concussion, can happen if your head hits the floor or a nearby object during your fall.
• Back and spinal damage – Back and neck injuries can include anything from strains and herniated disks to spinal fractures and permanent paralysis. 
• Sprains and strains – Ligament and muscle injuries often occur in the wrists, ankles and shoulders when you try to break your fall. 
• Cuts and bruises – Minor bruises and cuts are typical of slips, trips and falls. Although they’re usually superficial, they can lead to more serious injuries. 

These injuries can affect your mobility, ability to work, and overall quality of life. Compensation can help to make your life a little easier after a fall in a shop.

How Much Compensation Can I Claim for Falling in a Shop? 

The amount you can claim can vary depending on how severe your injuries are, the impact the fall had on your life, your financial losses and any psychological suffering (such as anxiety or PTSD). 

So, one size does not fit all when it comes to compensation claims – but here’s a rough guideline on what you can expect after falling in a shop:

Note – These figures are for guidance only, and the actual amount will depend on your circumstances.

There are two types of compensation you can claim after falling in a shop – general damages and special damages: 

• General Damages – Pain, suffering, and loss of comfort.
• Special Damages –  Financial losses such as lost earnings, medical expenses, travel costs, and care needs.

Who Is Eligible to Claim? 

You can make a fall-in-shop claim if:

• The accident happened within the last three years
• The fall was caused by someone else’s negligence (such as the shop owner or manager)
• You suffered a physical or psychological injury due to the fall

You can make a compensation claim whether you are a customer, employee, or even a contractor working in the shop. However, the legal basis is slightly different. 

Customers are protected under the Occupiers’ Liability Act 1957, which states that businesses should ensure their premises are safe for visitors. Employees, on the other hand, are protected under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, which states that employers are required to provide a safe working environment.  

If you fell at work and your employer failed to provide a safe working environment, you may be entitled to compensation. Make an accident at work claim with CEL Solicitors and get the compensation you deserve. Learn more about your rights after a fall at work here.

What Evidence Do I Need to Support My Claim? 

Evidence is a must when making a claim, and the more evidence you can gather to support your claim, the better. Evidence for a fall in a shop might include: 

• Photographs of the hazard, your injuries or the scene of the fall 
• Details of witnesses, including name, contact information and statements 
• Accident report (make sure that the fall is logged in the shop’s official accident book)
• CCTV footage of the accident
• Invoices and receipts of any expenses related to your injury 

Although you have three years after the accident to make a claim, the sooner you act, the better – evidence is much easier to obtain closer to the accident. 

Do I Need a Solicitor to Make a Claim?

Technically, no, you don’t need a solicitor to make a claim – you can make a personal injury claim without a solicitor. However, a qualified and experienced solicitor can streamline the process, increase your chances of a fair payout, and reduce the stress and paperwork required. A solicitor who specialises in personal injury can help you:

• Gather and present evidence
• Determine the strength and value of your claim
• Liaise with insurers or the shop’s representatives
• Guide you through legal procedures
• Represent you in court if necessary

We recommend that you seek legal support before accepting any settlement offer directly from the shop or its insurer. 

Get The Compensation You Deserve with CEL Solicitors

A fall in a shop can have a huge impact on your life and leave you dealing with pain, stress, and financial difficulty. At CEL Solicitors, we can help you get justice. Our expert personal injury solicitors will fight on your behalf to secure the compensation you need to move forward.

Contact us today for a free, no-win, no-fee consultation or to begin your fall in shop claim. We’re ready to help you every step of the way.