Public Liability Claims

Pavement Accident Claims
- No Win No Fee Solicitors -

NJS Law supports you through every stage of your pavement accident claim, from evidence gathering to full compensation.

If you’ve been injured because of a poorly maintained pavement or walkway, you may be entitled to claim compensation from the council or property owner. Uneven slabs, cracked pavements, or hidden potholes can cause serious injuries. When councils or owners fail in their duty to maintain safe walkways, you have the right to hold them accountable for negligence.

At NJS Law, our experienced personal injury solicitors guide you through each stage of your pavement accident claim with clarity and care.

Take your first step toward recovery and justice with NJS Law’s no win no fee legal support.

âś… Free Initial Consultation with personal injury solicitors

âś… No Win, No Fee pavement accident claims

âś… Decades of Experience in Public Liability Claims

âś… Proven Success in Personal Injury Compensation Cases

Most pavement accidents in the UK fall under the Highways Act 1980, which requires councils to inspect and maintain public walkways.

If a local authority fails in this duty and you’re injured, you can make a public liability claim for negligence.

Our team helps gather crucial evidence.  From photographs of defects to medical records to support your claim and secure fair compensation.

4.7/5 | 678 Satisfied Customer Reviews

Public Liability Claims

Pavement Accident Claims
- No Win No Fee Solicitors -

NJS Law supports you through every stage of your pavement accident claim, from evidence gathering to full compensation.

If you’ve been injured because of a poorly maintained pavement or walkway, you may be entitled to claim compensation from the council or property owner. Uneven slabs, cracked pavements, or hidden potholes can cause serious injuries. When councils or owners fail in their duty to maintain safe walkways, you have the right to hold them accountable for negligence.

4.7/5 | 678 Satisfied Customer Reviews

At NJS Law, our experienced personal injury solicitors guide you through each stage of your pavement accident claim with clarity and care.

Take your first step toward recovery and justice with NJS Law’s no win no fee legal support.

âś… Free Initial Consultation with personal injury solicitors

âś… No Win, No Fee pavement accident claims

âś… Decades of Experience in Public Liability Claims

âś… Proven Success in Personal Injury Compensation Cases

Most pavement accidents in the UK fall under the Highways Act 1980, which requires councils to inspect and maintain public walkways.

If a local authority fails in this duty and you’re injured, you can make a public liability claim for negligence.

Our team helps gather crucial evidence.  From photographs of defects to medical records to support your claim and secure fair compensation.

Check If You're Eligible With
Our Pavement Accident Claims Solicitors

Discover today if you’re eligible to make a claim.
Complete the form below, email or call our accident at work solicitors for free, no-obligation advice.

Types of Pavement Accident Claims We Handle

Pavement accidents can happen anywhere. From public streets to shopping centres and private properties. Here are the most common circumstances that can lead to a valid pavement accident compensation claim:

Wet or Slippery Floors: Spills or cleaning residues left without warning signs can cause serious slip injuries on pavements and walkways.

Uneven Pavements or Broken Flooring: Cracked slabs, potholes, or loose surfaces in public areas often cause trip-and-fall injuries. Councils and property owners may be liable under the Highways Act 1980 for failing to maintain safe surfaces.

Poor Lighting: Insufficient lighting in car parks, footpaths, or public areas can obscure pavement defects and increase the risk of falls after dark.

Obstructed Walkways: Objects, loose cables, or construction materials left across pavements can cause avoidable accidents and may constitute negligence if hazards are not clearly marked.

If your accident resulted from poor maintenance, missing warning signs, or breaches of health and safety regulations, our solicitors would gather evidence and build a strong pavement accident claim on your behalf.

Pavement accident claims can involve many other hazards, such as defective manhole covers or raised kerbstones. Whether your fall occurred in a public street, private car park, or retail premises, our personal injury team will identify who is responsible and help you claim fair compensation.

Am I Eligible to Make a Pavement Accident Claim?

You may be eligible to make a pavement accident claim for compensation if the following apply:

  • Your accident occurred in a public place. For example, a pavement, park, leisure centre, or car park maintained by a local authority or business.
  • The incident took place within the last three years, which is the usual time limit for pavement accident claims under UK law.
  • Your injury was caused by another party’s negligence. For example, a council failing to repair a defective pavement or a business not signposting hazards.

If you’re unsure who is responsible for the location of your accident, our personal injury solicitors will investigate and determine who is at fault. We offer a free, no-obligation consultation to explain your rights and guide you through your next steps toward a successful pavement accident claim.

 

To make a successful claim, you must show that the responsible party owed you a duty of care and breached that duty. Under the Highways Act 1980 and Occupiers’ Liability Act 1957, councils and property owners must keep paths and walkways reasonably safe for the public.

Our team reviews inspection records, maintenance logs, and photographs to prove negligence and secure the compensation you deserve.

What Can You Claim For in a Pavement Accident Claim?

At NJS Law, our personal injury solicitors carefully assess how your injury affects every aspect of your life when calculating compensation. You may be able to claim compensation for the following losses and expenses:

  • Physical pain, psychological distress, and loss of amenity (known as general damages)
  • Lost income — including future loss of earnings if your injury limits your ability to work
  • Medical treatment, physiotherapy, and rehabilitation expenses required for recovery
  • Travel costs incurred for medical appointments, therapy sessions, or legal meetings
  • The cost of care and assistance, including unpaid help from relatives or friends
  • Home adaptations, mobility aids, or vehicle modifications needed to restore independence

Our team examines every detail of your pavement accident claim to make sure you recover the full compensation you’re legally entitled to.

Compensation for a pavement accident claim is divided into general damages (for pain and suffering) and special damages (for financial losses). The amount awarded depends on the severity of your injury, recovery time, and ongoing care needs. Our solicitors use the Judicial College Guidelines and past case outcomes to value your claim accurately and ensure no loss is overlooked.

How the Pavement Accident Claims Process Works

At NJS Law, our solicitors make the pavement accident claims process straightforward and stress-free from start to finish.

  1. Free Consultation. Our free consultation lets you speak directly with a solicitor who assesses your claim and explains your legal rights.
  2. No Win, No Fee. All claims run on a no win, no fee basis — you pay nothing unless your claim succeeds.
  3. Evidence Gathering. We collect medical records, witness statements, and accident reports to build a strong evidence file.
  4. Claim Submission. Your solicitor submits the claim and negotiates with insurers, councils, landowners, or businesses responsible for the pavement defect.
  5. Compensation Secured. We pursue the highest possible compensation and aim to resolve your case efficiently so you can focus on recovery.

 

Start your pavement accident claim today. Speak to our team for a free consultation.

Our claims process follows strict pre-action protocols for personal injury cases in England and Wales. You’ll have direct contact with your solicitor, regular progress updates, and full transparency on costs and timelines.

Whether you’re claiming against a council or a private landowner, NJS Law ensures your case is prepared thoroughly for the best possible settlement.

Personal Injury Claim Tips and Guides

Explore our latest resources to help you understand every aspect of personal injury and public liability law. These guides explain how compensation is calculated, who may be responsible for your accident, and how to start your claim.

Learn which factors influence your compensation amount — including injury severity, recovery time, lost earnings, and long-term care needs.

Understand the full personal injury claim process, from initial consultation to settlement, with step-by-step insights from our solicitors.

Find out how liability is established in slip, trip, and fall cases, and when councils, occupiers, or employers can be held responsible under UK law.

Read about occupier liability and how businesses, landlords, and public bodies must maintain safe environments for visitors and the public.

Why Choose NJS Law for Your Pavement Accident Claim?

At NJS Law, we combine specialist legal expertise with a genuinely client-first approach to every pavement accident claim. We’ve built our reputation on exceptional service, clear communication, and unwavering commitment to achieving the best outcome for every client.

  • Clear, jargon-free legal advice from specialist solicitors

  • Full support from the initial claim to the final compensation

  • Proven success in public liability and personal injury claims

  • National coverage — handling cases across England and Wales

  • Transparent communication and dedicated client care throughout your case

We take time to understand your situation and build the strongest possible case, so you can focus on recovery while we focus on results.

With decades of combined experience, NJS Law has recovered significant compensation for clients injured due to council or property-owner negligence. Our solicitors follow best-practice protocols and work with independent medical experts to strengthen your claim and maximise your compensation.

Speak to Our Personal Injury Solicitors Today

Our friendly, expert solicitors have decades of combined experience handling pavement accident and personal injury claims across England and Wales. We understand how challenging this time can be and are committed to standing by your side through every stage of your claim — from first consultation to final settlement.

Contact NJS Law today to start your pavement accident claim and take the first step toward securing the compensation you deserve.

Start Your Claim Now – Speak to Our Solicitors for a Free Consultation

When you contact NJS Law, your enquiry goes directly to a qualified solicitor — not a call centre. We’ll review your case, explain your options in plain language, and confirm whether you have a valid pavement accident claim. There’s no cost to start, and we’ll guide you step by step until your case is resolved.

Latest Insights on Public Liability and Pavement Accident Claims

Stay informed with our latest articles covering public liability law, council negligence, and pavement accident compensation. These resources explain key legal principles, recent case outcomes, and practical guidance for anyone pursuing a claim.

Public Liability Claim: ÂŁ8,500 Awarded After Child Injured on Faulty Park Equipment

ÂŁ8,500 Compensation for Injury Caused by Broken Spring on Playground Apparatus
Play areas should be safe spaces—but when maintenance is ignored, they can quickly become dangerous. Our client was using a piece of equipment in a public play area when they were injured by exposed sharp edges caused by a broken spring.
We helped secure ÂŁ8,500 in compensation after proving the land occupier had known about the fault for over two months and failed to act

Read More »

ÂŁ10,355 Compensation After Client Injured by Damaged Manhole Cover

Before even entering the store, our client was injured—due to a hazard the business should have fixed.

A routine visit to a well-known supermarket ended in pain, bruising, and lasting wrist injuries after they tripped over a damaged manhole cover near the entrance.
We secured ÂŁ10,355 in compensation after proving the retailer had failed in its duty of care.

Read More »

FAQs for Pavement Accident Claims

Pavement accident claims often raise similar questions about eligibility, evidence, council responsibility, and compensation.
The answers below explain the legal process clearly, from who can claim to how long it takes, so you know exactly what to expect before starting your claim with NJS Law.

How do I know if I have a valid pavement accident claim?

You may have a valid claim if your injury was caused by a pavement, path, or walkway that was unsafe due to a defect, hazard, or poor maintenance. Councils and property owners have a duty to keep public areas safe under the Highways Act 1980 and the Occupiers’ Liability Act 1957. If they failed to inspect, repair, or warn about dangers, you could be entitled to compensation.

Who is liable for a pavement accident?

Liability depends on who controls or maintains the pavement where the accident happened. Councils are responsible for public highways, while private landowners and businesses are responsible for their own premises. Our solicitors identify the correct party, obtain inspection and maintenance records, and prove whether reasonable care was taken to prevent accidents.

What evidence do I need for a pavement accident claim?

 Good evidence strengthens your claim and helps prove fault. You should gather:

  • Photos of the defect with a ruler or coin for scale and multiple angles

  • Witness names and contact details

  • A report to the council, occupier, or business (keep a copy)

  • Medical records confirming injuries and treatment

  • Receipts for travel or medical costs

Correspondence or reference numbers from the responsible authority. Our solicitors use this evidence to establish negligence and build a robust claim for compensation.

What are the time limits for making a pavement accident claim?

You normally have three years from the accident date to start your claim. This may extend to the date you became aware that your injury was linked to the incident. For children, the three-year limit starts on their 18th birthday, and for adults lacking mental capacity, the time limit is paused until they can act or a litigation friend is appointed. We recommend contacting us quickly to protect your right to claim.

How much compensation could I receive for a pavement accident?

Compensation varies depending on your injuries and how they affect your life. Using the Judicial College Guidelines, typical awards include:

  • Minor ankle or wrist fracture: ÂŁ3,000 – ÂŁ7,000

  • Serious leg or ankle fracture: ÂŁ7,000 – ÂŁ25,000

  • Head or facial injury: ÂŁ5,000 – ÂŁ20,000

  • Severe multiple injuries: ÂŁ25,000 and above

You can claim both general damages (for pain and suffering) and special damages (for financial losses). Our team calculates your total accurately based on medical evidence and personal impact.

What are the most common injuries in pavement accident claims?

The most frequent injuries include:

  • Fractures to wrists, ankles, and legs

  • Soft-tissue sprains and strains

  • Shoulder, back, and hip injuries

  • Facial or dental trauma from impact

  • Head injury or concussion

  • Long-term pain or reduced mobility

Even minor injuries can justify a claim if they cause lasting pain, lost income, or medical costs.

Can I make a claim against a private landowner or occupier?

If your accident happened on private property, such as a shop, car park, or residential estate, your claim is covered by the Occupiers’ Liability Act 1957. Occupiers must keep their premises reasonably safe for visitors. Failure to fix hazards or display warning signs can make them liable for your injury.

Can I make a claim on behalf of someone else?

Yes. You can claim on behalf of a child or someone who lacks the capacity to manage their own affairs. In these cases, you act as a litigation friend. Our solicitors guide you through the process and ensure the claim is filed within the correct legal time limits.

How long does a pavement accident claim take?

Straightforward pavement accident claims may settle within six to nine months if liability is accepted early. More complex cases involving serious injuries or disputed liability can take 12 to 18 months or longer. We update you regularly and aim to secure compensation as quickly as possible without compromising the value of your claim.

Do I need a solicitor for a pavement accident claim?

You can start a claim yourself, but using a solicitor improves your chances of success and ensures the correct procedures are followed. Our personal injury team:

  • Identifies who is legally responsible

  • Gathers evidence and expert reports

  • Calculates accurate compensation

Negotiates with insurers and councils. Professional representation also protects you from procedural errors and ensures maximum compensation.

How does a No Win No Fee pavement accident claim work?

Under a Conditional Fee Agreement (CFA), you pay nothing upfront and nothing if your claim is unsuccessful. If you win, a capped success fee is deducted from your compensation. All terms are explained clearly before you begin so you know exactly how costs and insurance work.

What should I do after a pavement accident?

Follow these steps immediately:

  1. Seek medical attention and keep all treatment records.

  2. Take photos of the defect and surrounding area.

  3. Report the incident to the council or property owner and obtain a copy of the report.

  4. Collect witness details and preserve footwear or clothing.

  5. Keep all receipts for related expenses.

Contact NJS Law for free advice on starting your claim.

Acting quickly helps preserve crucial evidence and strengthens your case.

What happens if the council denies responsibility?

If the council denies fault, we investigate their inspection and maintenance records to show whether they took reasonable care. We can issue court proceedings where necessary, but most cases still settle before trial once proper evidence is presented.

How long do I have to report a pavement accident to the council?

You should report the defect or incident as soon as possible — ideally within days. Prompt reporting helps confirm the defect existed and prevents the council from arguing that they were unaware of the hazard before your accident occurred.

Can I still claim if I didn’t report the accident immediately?

Yes, you can. While early reporting helps, your claim can still succeed if there is clear evidence of the defect and how it caused your injury. Photographs, witness statements, and medical records often fill this gap.

Will I need to go to court for my pavement accident claim?

Most pavement accident claims settle out of court. Court proceedings are only required if the other side disputes liability or the value of your compensation. If this happens, our solicitors handle everything on your behalf and keep the process as straightforward as possible.

Can I claim compensation if I was injured while pushing a pram or using mobility aids?

Yes. Pavement accident claims cover all pedestrians, including parents with prams and people using wheelchairs, mobility scooters, or walking aids. Councils must ensure pavements are safe and accessible for everyone. Hazards that cause accidents for vulnerable users can lead to higher compensation due to increased risk.

Ask NJS Law

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FAQ

For any questions we may be able to answer, discover our FAQs section.

Leanne Henton

Solicitor - Head of Personal Injury

Leanne studied the Bar Vocational Course at the BPP Law School in Leeds, and graduated with Very Competent, before cross-qualifying as a Solicitor in 2013.

Leanne began her legal career in 2009, specialising in Personal Injury claims, with experience across Road Traffic Accidents, Employer and Public Liability cases, and Medical Negligence matters.

As Head of Personal Injury, Leanne is instrumental in driving the growth and evolution of the Employer and Public Liability team, along with the Medical, Dental, and Cosmetic Negligence departments.

In her personal life Leanne enjoys holidaying and days out with her young family.

Angela Cross

Solicitor

Angela is a Senior Personal Injury Solicitor Advocate having qualified in January 2011.

She specialises in employer liability, public liability and occupiers liability claims, with the ultimate aim of providing an efficient service, ensuring her clients receive the maximum amount of compensation they deserve! 

She is thrilled to be a part of NJS Law and to be working for a well-respected firm that always puts clients first.  

Angela strives to develop a strong relationship with her clients so that she is in a position to advise the best options in relation to their claim. At all times providing exceptional standards of service and regular updates on how her clients claim is progressing. Angela is very easy going and dedicated to her work.

When not working, Angela looks after her pygmy goats, pigs, rescued chickens and ducks.  

Andrew Moores

EL/ PL Litigation Executive

Andrew started his career in the insurance sector over 25 years ago and has worked in many different areas of the industry, gaining a wealth of knowledge from multiple disciplines including motor claims, personal injury,, medical negligence, and public and employer liability matters.

He is friendly, adaptable, and hard-working and will always go the extra mile for both clients and colleagues alike.

While a dedicated family man; he enjoys his spare time watching football and rugby, and  can still be persuaded to play the occasional 5-a-side game.

Joanne Scrivens

EL/PL Litigation Executive

Joanne has worked in law since leaving School.

Joanne is a Senior Litigation Executive with over 30 years’ experience in all aspects of RTA litigation and also has diversified and now also deals with employers liability claims, occupiers liability claims and public liability matters.

In her spare time she enjoys making memories with her family and friends.

Mark Sammans

EL/PL Litigation Executive

Mark completed his studies through the Chartered Institute of Legal Executives and was admitted as a Fellow of CILEX in 2006.

Mark has worked within the personal injury sector for over 30 years, dealing with a varied range of personal injury matters from inception to trial.

Mark deals with Employment and Public Liability personal injury matters.

In his spare time, Mark is an FA Licensed coach working with children at grass roots level. He enjoys listening to music and walking his Labrador.

Curtis Lockston

EL/PL Litigation Executive

Curtis has over 10 years experience acting for Claimant’s of all

He is knowledgeable, hard working and a good negotiator who fights to get the best results for his clients whether that is securing a good settlement or arranging for early treatment to help people on their road to recovery.

Curtis has handled a variety of claims in his career varying from head injuries to loss of limbs and is adept and meeting a client’s needs.

In his free time Curtis enjoys spending time with his family; and enjoys a variety of tabletop games including Warhammer, Dungeons and Dragons and Magic the Gathering.

Nicole Parr

EL/PL Litigation Executive

Nicole has worked in the legal sector since leaving school. She began her career as assistant Personal Injury and Medical Negligence assistant.

Nicole has since progressed into her current role as a Litigation Executive here at NJS Law, where she now manages her own caseload of public liability, occupiers’ liability, and employers’ liability claims.  Alongside her full-time role, she is also studying towards a law degree part-time, continuing to build on her legal knowledge and expertise.

In her spare time, when she isn’t studying, Nicole loves to go on holiday and spend time with her springer spaniel. 

Nicole Dodd

EL/PL Litigation Executive

Nicole graduated from the University of Leicester in 2018 with a degree in law and has since been gaining experience in the legal sector.

Although Nicole has worked across various areas of personal injury and motor claims, she has a particular interest in ELPL and is always happy to go above and beyond for her clients and colleagues.

In her spare time, Nicole enjoys  walking her dog, reading and spending time with friends and family.