The last thing you should pick up at the shops is an injury

Whether you’re out for the weekly ‘big shop’, on an afternoon spree with friends or nipping in for ‘some bits’ on the way home from work… everyone has the right to expect to be safe inside shops and supermarkets.

However, shops, markets and shopping centres have their own risks, and some injuries may give rise to claims.

David Wilson, Partner at Digby Brown and occupiers’ liability expert, revealed it’s not just slips and trips that affect shop customers.

Compensation may be available for injuries caused by negligence, whether due to faulty signage, toppled shelves, or even being struck by revolving doors, depending on the circumstances.

David said: “Shops, supermarkets and shopping centres have a legal duty to take reasonable care to help keep public areas safe for visitors.”

What responsibilities do stores have?

Slipping on wet floors, tripping over uneven ground or being hit by something that should have been secured are among the most common ways people are injured in a shop.

These kinds of accidents can be caused by staff not tidying up after restocking, leaking fridges or failing to manage rainwater brought into the store.

David explained: “Warning signage may not always prevent an accident, and whether a shop is responsible will depend on the circumstances.

“The law agrees that shops must act reasonably to protect people due to hazards in their premises.”

What to do after being injured in a shop

Seek medical help: Many people are reluctant to do this, but it’s worth getting checked. Early assessment can be important for recovery.

Report: Notify the store manager or supervisor as soon as possible.

Evidence: Take photos or videos of the scene, noting the hazards. Try to get the names of witnesses and request a copy of any CCTV footage promptly, as stores may retain it for a limited time.

Get professional help: A specialist solicitor, like the team at Digby Brown, can advise you and, where appropriate, pursue compensation.

David added: “As members of the public, you don’t need to worry about anything other than basic steps - get medical treatment, gather initial evidence and seek legal advice.

“We then investigate the circumstances and advise on next steps.”

Personal injury claims involving shops

Digby Brown helps hundreds of clients each year with accidents that occur on someone else’s premises.

They handle these cases under no-win, no-fee arrangements (terms and conditions apply), helping clients understand questions such as:

• What is the routine process for reporting hazards?
• Did the occupier know about this particular hazard?
• What was done to address the hazard, and by whom?
• If nothing was done, who made that decision and why?

Case study

One person who came to Digby Brown for help was Rhona MacDonald. She was offered just £400 after slipping on a wet Tesco floor and spraining her wrist.

After further investigation and support from Digby Brown, her claim was settled for £5,350. Compensation amounts vary depending on the circumstances of each case, and previous settlements do not guarantee the outcome of future claims.

David said: “All shops have a legal duty to take reasonable care to ensure their premises are safe for the public.

“Risks, hazards, faulty equipment… none of these things should be on a shopper’s mind.

“The only thing people should have to look out for in a shop is a bargain.”

Story SavedYou can find this story in  My Bookmarks.Or by navigating to the user icon in the top right.