Slip and trip accidents are one of the most common causes of injury in public spaces. In Preston, busy shops and supermarkets can quickly become hazardous if staff fail to deal with spillages or obstacles. A public liability claim is a legal process for seeking compensation when an organisation breaches its duty of care and a visitor is injured as a result.
Every day, thousands of customers visit shopping areas like Fishergate Shopping Centre, St George’s Shopping Centre, and the high street. Legally, businesses must maintain these environments reasonably safe. If businesses ignore hazards, injured shoppers may be eligible for compensation.
Can I claim compensation for a slip in Preston?
Yes, you may be able to bring a claim if unsafe conditions caused your accident. To prove liability, the following elements are usually required:
- The business owed you a duty of care as a visitor
- That duty was breached, for example by failing to clean up a spillage or repair flooring
- The breach directly caused your injury
If you meet these conditions, you may be eligible for a personal injury claim. For example, slipping on a wet supermarket floor without a warning sign could qualify.
What injuries are common after slips in shops?
Slip accidents can range from mild to severe. Typical injuries include:
- Sprains or strains from awkward landings
- Fractures of wrists, arms, or ankles
- Back or spinal injuries
- Head injuries from striking shelving or hard flooring
These injuries often require medical treatment at facilities such as Royal Preston Hospital, Chorley and South Ribble Hospital, or through local GP practices across Fulwood and Ribbleton. Prompt treatment ensures your health is protected and provides records that support your claim.
What compensation could cover in Preston slip claims?
Compensation is designed to address both physical harm and financial impact. A claim may cover:
- General damages for pain, suffering, and loss of amenity
- Special damages for out-of-pocket expenses such as prescriptions, mobility aids, or travel to appointments
- Loss of earnings if your injuries prevented you from working
- Costs for private physiotherapy or long-term rehabilitation
- Adjustments needed at home if your mobility has been affected
For example, someone who fractured their ankle after slipping in a Preston supermarket may claim for their pain, time off work, taxi fares to medical appointments, and physiotherapy sessions.
How do I start a slip claim in Preston?
The process is more straightforward than many people expect. The general steps include:
- Seek medical treatment and keep a record of appointments and prescriptions
- Report the incident to the shop or business and request that it is logged in their accident book
- Gather evidence such as photographs of the hazard and contact details of any witnesses
- Contact experienced personal injury solicitors to assess your case and handle the legal process
Marley Solicitors has assisted numerous Preston residents with their slip and trip claims, guaranteeing accurate collection of evidence and timely fulfilment of deadlines.
Do I need a solicitor for a slip accident claim?
While it is possible to bring a claim independently, many people find it difficult to navigate legal procedures, gather strong evidence, and negotiate compensation. Solicitors increase your chances of success and can often work on a no win no fee basis, meaning you only pay if your claim is successful.
Where do slips often occur in Preston?
Shops and supermarkets across the city must take precautions, but some environments are more prone to hazards. Common accident locations include:
- Large supermarkets on Blackpool Road and in Fulwood
- Shopping centres such as St George’s and Fishergate
- Smaller convenience stores on Friargate and Plungington Road
- Cafés and takeaways where spillages can happen frequently
Wherever the accident takes place, the key issue is whether the business took reasonable measures to prevent risk.
How much compensation could I receive for a slip in Preston?
Compensation amounts vary depending on the seriousness of the injury and its impact on daily life. As a general guide:
- Minor soft tissue injuries may result in awards of a few thousand pounds
- Moderate fractures that heal with treatment may attract higher sums
- Serious head or back injuries can lead to significant compensation for long-term care and loss of earnings
Your solicitor will compare your situation with guidelines and previous case law to give an accurate estimate.
How long do I have to bring a slip claim?
In most cases, you have three years from the date of the accident to start a claim. There are exceptions for children or people lacking mental capacity, but acting promptly is always best. Evidence is easier to secure when the incident is recent.
Why choose Marley Solicitors for slip claims in Preston?
Local knowledge matters. Marley Solicitors has worked with clients across Preston, from the city centre to surrounding areas such as Bamber Bridge, Leyland, and Penwortham. Our team combines local insight with legal expertise, making the process less stressful for you. We handle everything from initial evidence gathering to negotiating with insurers.
Clients also value our approachable style and the option of free consultations. We are transparent about costs and can advise whether a no win no fee agreement is suitable for your case.
FAQ
Can I claim if I slipped but there were warning signs displayed?
If adequate warning signs were in place, liability may not be established. However, if signs were poorly positioned or did not reflect the actual hazard, you could still have grounds to claim. A solicitor will examine these details.
What if I was partly at fault for my slip in Preston?
Even if you were partly responsible, you may still be able to recover compensation. In these cases, the award may be reduced to reflect shared responsibility.
Speak to Marley Solicitors about slip claims in Preston
If you have suffered a slip in a Preston shop, contact Marley Solicitors today. We offer free, no-obligation consultations and can explain your options clearly. With local experience and a proven track record in personal injury law, our team can guide you through the process and help secure the compensation you deserve.
