Public Liability

Public liability injury claims

When a shop, restaurant, gym, hotel, council or other organisation fails to keep its premises and public spaces safe and you're hurt as a result, you have the right to claim compensation. We make the process simple.

No win, no fee · Free initial review · UK-wide

A wet supermarket floor with a yellow caution sign

What is a public liability claim?

Public liability is the legal responsibility a business or organisation has for the safety of members of the public on or near its premises. If they fail in that responsibility and you're injured, their insurance pays your compensation.

Claims typically arise from slips and trips, falling objects, poorly maintained equipment, food poisoning, dog bites in public, and inadequate safety precautions. They can be against private businesses, public bodies, councils and even charities.

Most organisations carry public liability insurance precisely for this purpose. Claiming doesn't put a small business out of business — it brings their insurer in to put things right.

Common public liability claims

  • Supermarket slips on wet or damaged flooring
  • Trip hazards in shops, gyms and leisure centres
  • Falling objects in retail premises
  • Food poisoning at restaurants or hotels
  • Hotel and holiday accident claims
  • Dog bites in public places
  • Defective equipment at gyms or playgrounds
  • Accidents on poorly maintained council pavements

How we'll handle your claim

1

Secure the evidence

We act fast to obtain CCTV, accident-book entries, photographs and witness statements before evidence is lost.

2

Notify the right defendant

We identify whether the business, landlord, contractor or local authority is responsible — and pursue the right insurer.

3

Recover what you're owed

We negotiate compensation for your injury, lost income, medical costs and any continuing impact on your life.

A note on time limits

Three years from the date of the accident. Children have until their 21st birthday. Where the claim relates to an accident abroad, different limitation periods can apply — get in touch quickly for advice.

Frequently asked questions

Who do I claim against?

You claim against the business, local authority or organisation that controlled the place where you were injured. Their public liability insurance — which most businesses are required to hold — pays your compensation.

I didn't report the accident at the time. Is it too late?

Not necessarily. Reporting helps but is not essential. We can use CCTV, photos, witnesses and your medical records to evidence what happened. Get in touch as soon as you can — CCTV is often overwritten within 30 days.

What can I claim for?

Pain and suffering, lost earnings, medical and travel expenses, and any ongoing care or rehabilitation. We also recover damaged personal property such as glasses or clothing where appropriate.

What's the time limit?

Three years from the date of the accident. Different rules apply to children and people who lack capacity.

What if the council blames the weather or contractors?

Councils and large businesses often try to deflect responsibility. We're used to dealing with their insurers and contractors and know how to build a case that holds the right party accountable.

Related services

Free, no-obligation case review

Speak to a specialist today

If something has gone wrong, you deserve clear answers. Our team will listen, explain your options, and tell you honestly whether you have a claim — at no cost.