A trip, slip or fall can happen almost anywhere, including in a supermarket, shopping centre, office, factory, workplace or other public premises. While some accidents result in minor injuries, others can lead to broken bones, serious soft-tissue injuries, head injuries or long-term consequences. If you have been injured because of a hazard on premises, you may be entitled to make a trip and fall accident claim in Ireland.
When Can You Make a Trip and Fall Claim?
Under the Occupiers’ Liability Act 1995, an occupier generally owes visitors a duty of care to take reasonable care, having regard to the circumstances, to ensure they do not suffer injury because of a danger on the premises.
A trip and fall accident claim may arise where an injury was caused by a hazard such as:
- Uneven or damaged flooring
- Potholes or defective paving
- Loose mats or carpets
- Obstructions in walkways
- Poorly maintained stairs
- Wet or slippery floors
- Spilt liquids or food in a supermarket
- Inadequate lighting
- Defective entrances or pathways
However, not every fall will automatically result in a successful personal injury claim. The circumstances of the accident, the nature of the hazard, whether the occupier knew or should reasonably have known about it, and the precautions taken will all be relevant.
The law also requires consideration of factors including the likelihood of a danger, the likelihood and potential severity of injury, and the practicality and cost of preventative measures.
Supermarket and Public Place Accidents
Supermarket slip and fall claims are a common type of premises-related accident. For example, a customer may fall after slipping on a spill in an aisle where there was no adequate warning or where the hazard had not been dealt with within a reasonable period.
If you are involved in a trip and fall accident in a supermarket, it is important to report the accident to management and, where possible, obtain details of the incident report. Photographs of the hazard and surrounding area can also be valuable evidence.
You should keep receipts and records of any expenses arising from your injury and seek appropriate medical attention.
Trip and Fall Accidents at Work
A workplace trip and fall accident can raise different legal considerations. Employers have duties relating to the safety, health and welfare of employees, including maintaining workplaces and safe means of access and egress so far as is reasonably practicable.
Examples of workplace hazards can include trailing cables, cluttered walkways, defective flooring, inadequate lighting, spills or poorly maintained stairs.
If you have suffered a workplace accident in Ireland, you may be entitled to pursue a personal injury claim where another party was legally responsible for your injuries. Workplace personal injury claims are generally submitted to the Injuries Resolution Board before court proceedings can be commenced, subject to the applicable procedures and exceptions.
What Should You Do After a Trip or Fall?
After an accident, try to record as much information as possible. Take photographs of the hazard if you are able to do so safely, identify witnesses and report the accident to the relevant manager, employer or occupier.
You should also seek medical attention and retain medical records, receipts and documentation relating to your injury and financial losses.
If you believe someone else may be responsible, obtaining advice from an experienced trip and fall solicitor in Ireland at an early stage can help you understand your options.
How Kerrigan Solicitors Can Help
At Kerrigan Solicitors, we understand that an unexpected fall can result in pain, financial loss and disruption to your everyday life. Our solicitor can assess the circumstances of your accident, explain the personal injury claims process in Ireland, and advise you on the evidence required to support your claim.
If you have been injured following a trip, slip or fall in a supermarket, workplace or other premises, our experienced personal injury solicitor can advise you on your circumstances. We meet clients throughout Ireland, including in Galway, Dublin, Clare, Limerick and other counties.
Contact Kerrigan Solicitors for clear, practical advice about your potential trip and fall accident claim in Ireland.
Telephone: 091 820630
Website: kerrigansolicitors.ie
Email: m.kerrigan@kerrigansolicitors.ie