2025 has begun with a series of unfortunate weather conditions around the country ranging from floods to snow and ice, which has resulted in hazardous conditions for drivers and Pedestrians.
Who can be liable?
These hazardous conditions increase the risk of injury to pedestrians in public and private places, such as:
- Supermarkets or supermarket car parks
- Hospital grounds
- Doctors Surgery grounds
- Shopping Centres and retail parks
- Train or bus stations
Under the Occupiers Liability Act 1957, the occupiers of a property owe a duty to take such care in all the circumstances that is reasonable to see that the visitor will be reasonably safe in using the premises for the purposes for which they are invited or permitted by the occupier to be there.
As these wintry weather snaps have been widely reported and weather reports are easily accessible, the occupiers of these type of premises should ensure that they are prepared to prevent the risk of injury for visitors. They should ensure that they have enough grit for their car parks and walkways and ensure that wet floor signs are placed within the premises to warn visitors of the hazards.
In addition, homeowners have the same duty of care towards visitors. It is important that homeowners take reasonable care to ensure that visitors are not injured in their driveways, therefore they should be ensuring that their driveways are gritted to ensure the safety of postal workers, delivery drivers, contractors, and any other visitors to the property.
If the householder has buildings and contents insurance, it is possible to make a claim for any injury sustained whilst on their premises.
What should I do if I suffer personal injury on private property?
- Attend A&E or your GP to have your injury seen to.
- If possible, depending on the severity of your injuries, take a picture of the accident location where you fell.
- Report the accident to the organisation or homeowner that you believe is responsible for the accident.
- Take the contact details of any witnesses who could assist with determining liability for your claim.
How will the personal injury claim be quantified?
The compensation for the claim will be based on the severity of injury and any financial loss that has occurred as a result.
How to contact us
If you have suffered injury due to a slip, trip of fall, please contact, Melissa Moore on 0161 930 5157 or Head of Personal Injury, Stuart Biddle on 0161 950 5117 for a no obligation discussion.