Public Liability
Public liability injury claims
Injuries in shops, restaurants and public spaces may raise questions about responsibility and safety. This guide explains common issues; a qualified solicitor can assess a potential claim.
General information only · Not legal advice
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 a public liability claim may be investigated
Secure the evidence
CCTV, accident-book entries, photographs and witness accounts may be important; evidence can be lost over time.
Notify the right defendant
An independent solicitor can investigate whether a business, landlord, contractor or local authority may be responsible.
Assess potential losses
An instructed solicitor can assess potential compensation for injury, lost income, medical costs and continuing effects.
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 — seek independent legal advice promptly.
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. CCTV, photographs, witness accounts and medical records may help establish what happened. Seek independent legal advice promptly — 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. Losses may also include 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. An independent solicitor can investigate which party may be responsible and review the available evidence.
Related information
Informational website · Not a law firm
Questions about this website?
Contact us about our information. We do not provide legal advice, assess claims or represent clients. Consult a qualified solicitor for advice about your circumstances.