What to do if you have a slip in a supermarket -Can you claim compensation?
If you are shopping in a supermarket and simply trip over your own feet then that is not the fault of the supermarket owners but is simply an accident and no compensation would be available.
If, however, you have an accident whilst in the supermarket which is not your fault and could have been avoided if certain procedures had been in place to avoid the incident occurring, then you may well be in a position to make a claim for compensation.
All companies and organisations have a duty of care to visitors to their premises. They must ensure that they have reasonable procedures in place to protect your safety. The onus is on the supermarket to clear any spillages up as soon as possible and to cordon off the area until the cleaning work has been completed. If they do not do this, and you have an accident then you may make a claim for compensation if you have suffered injuries as a direct result of their failure.
Alternatively, the supermarket staff may have cleaned the floor but neglected to put up signs warning that the area is wet, thereby putting anyone who walks on the floor at risk. Another example of a potential hazard, is if someone trips over food contents which should have been cleaned up.
No matter what the precise details, the supermarket have an obligation to ensure that that their premises are safe for the people visiting their store. If they fail to do so then they should not be surprised if they receive a claim for compensation where a customer has suffered personal injury by reason of their failure. It is then for the supermarket to prove, with documentary evidence, that they have taken all reasonable steps to comply with the duty of care owed to their customers.
As well as compensation for your injuries, you are also entitled to claim compensation for any expenses incurred by you as a direct result of the accident. For example, loss of earnings, if your injuries have meant that you have been unable to go to work; medical expenses; travelling expenses to name a few. It is important that you keep any receipts in support of any expenses you have incurred.
Some of the most common causes of supermarket injuries include:-
- Slips
- Trips
- Falling objects
- Broken glass
What should you do if you do have an accident in a supermarket?
- You should obtain the name, address and contact number of any witnesses
- Take a photograph of the accident location and if possible, the cause of your accident
- Report your accident to a member of staff and take a note of their name
- Request that an accident book entry is completed
- Get your injuries checked over by your GP or hospital depending on the nature of your injuries
If you have suffered injuries within the last 3 years then give us a call on 01942 409154 to discuss the matter in more detail.