Slip and Fall Accident Claims

Slip and fall accident claims arise where a person suffers injury due to unsafe conditions on another person’s premises or property. Kerrigan Solicitors advises clients throughout Galway and Ireland in relation to slip and fall accident claims and personal injury matters.

What Are Slip and Fall Accident Claims?

Slip and fall accident claims arise when a person suffers injury due to hazardous conditions on premises owned or controlled by another party. These accidents can occur suddenly and may result in serious injuries including fractures, soft tissue injuries, head injuries, and long-term mobility problems. While not every fall results from negligence, property owners and occupiers may be liable where hazards were not properly identified, managed, or addressed.

Common Causes of Slip and Fall Accidents

Slip and fall accidents may occur due to:

• Wet or recently cleaned floors
• Spillages or leaks
• Poor lighting
• Uneven flooring or surfaces
• Loose mats or flooring materials
• Inadequate warning signage

These accidents commonly occur in shops, supermarkets, restaurants, shopping centres, workplaces, car parks, footpaths, and public buildings.

Duty of Care Owed by Occupiers

In Ireland, occupiers of premises owe a legal duty of care to visitors to ensure that premises are maintained to a reasonably safe standard. This duty may apply to:

• Business owners
• Employers
• Local authorities
• Retailers and supermarkets
• Owners or occupiers of public premises

Where reasonable steps were not taken to prevent foreseeable accidents or hazards, a personal injury claim may arise.

Personal Injuries Resolution Board (PIRB)

In Ireland, most personal injury claims must first be submitted to the Personal Injuries Resolution Board (PIRB), formerly known as the Personal Injuries Assessment Board (PIAB). The Personal Injuries Resolution Board is an independent statutory body which assesses claims based on medical evidence and supporting documentation. While some claims resolve during this process, others may proceed through the courts where liability is disputed or injuries remain unresolved.

Time Limits for Slip and Fall Accident Claims

Strict time limits apply to slip and fall accident claims in Ireland. In most cases, claims must be submitted within two years less one day from the date of the accident. Failure to bring a claim within the relevant limitation period may result in the claim becoming statute barred. It is therefore important to seek legal advice as soon as possible following an accident.

Kerrigan Solicitors has the experience to guide clients through the personal injury claims process. You can also read what previous clients have said about their experience of working with us.

Speak With a Personal Injury Solicitor

If you have suffered injury due to a slip and fall accident, we can provide clear, practical guidance regarding your situation.

Contact Kerrigan Solicitors to arrange a confidential consultation. We advise clients throughout Galway and Ireland in relation to slip and fall accident claims and related personal injury matters.

Email us at m.kerrigan@kerrigansolicitors.ie or telephone 091-820630 to arrange a consultation.