Public spaces are meant to be safe environments for everyone. Whether you are shopping in The Lexicon, walking through Lily Hill Park, or visiting Brants Bridge Urgent Care Centre, the owners or authorities responsible for these areas have a legal duty to ensure your safety. However, accidents can and do happen when these responsibilities are neglected.
If you have suffered an injury in a public place in Bracknell, you may be entitled to claim compensation. At Marley Solicitors, we have years of experience supporting clients who have been injured through no fault of their own. We provide straightforward legal advice and a clear path toward compensation, tailored to your unique situation.
Understanding public liability claims
A public accident occurs when someone is injured in a location that is accessible to the public. These accidents often stem from hazards such as uneven pavements, wet floors, faulty handrails, damaged playground equipment, or inadequate lighting. They can happen in a wide range of places, including:
- Public parks and play areas
- Roads and pavements
- Shopping centres and supermarkets
- Public transport stations
- Council buildings and facilities
- Leisure centres, gyms, and swimming pools
If someone else’s failure to maintain safety standards in these spaces caused your injury, you may have grounds for a public liability claim.
Local examples in Bracknell
Bracknell is home to many public spaces and private establishments that must adhere to strict safety regulations. These include:
- The Lexicon – A busy shopping centre with heavy foot traffic and multiple retail units
- Bracknell Leisure Centre – A council-run fitness facility with swimming pools and sports amenities
- South Hill Park Arts Centre – A cultural venue hosting events, theatre, and public gatherings
- Parks and green spaces such as Lily Hill Park, South Hill Park grounds, and Westmorland Park
- Bracknell Healthspace and Brants Bridge Urgent Care Centre – Healthcare centres providing outpatient and emergency services
If an accident occurs in these locations due to negligence or unsafe conditions, you may be able to seek compensation.
Types of public accidents you can claim for
The nature of your accident will determine how your case is handled. Common types of public injury claims in Bracknell include:
- Slip, trip and fall accidents – Often caused by wet floors, cracked tiles, ice, uneven pavements, or cluttered walkways
- Accidents in parks and playgrounds – Due to broken swings, unstable surfaces, or poor maintenance
- Injuries in shops and supermarkets – Resulting from falling stock, unmarked hazards, or faulty trolleys
- Poorly lit walkways or stairwells – Leading to trips or missteps in council or private buildings
- Public transport-related injuries – Including accidents on buses, platforms, or access routes
If you have suffered a physical or psychological injury as a result of these incidents, our team is here to help.
Who is liable for a public injury?
Responsibility for maintaining public areas in Bracknell typically falls to one of the following:
- Bracknell Forest Council – Responsible for the upkeep of roads, pavements, street lighting, and local authority buildings
- Private companies – Including shops, cafes, and landlords with public access to their premises
- Public organisations – Such as NHS-run facilities including Frimley Health NHS Foundation Trust, which oversees care at Brants Bridge and other regional medical sites
Our team will investigate who was responsible for the area where your accident occurred and whether they failed in their legal duty of care.
The legal process for making a claim
Bringing a public injury claim involves several steps, which Marley Solicitors will guide you through:
- Initial consultation – We will discuss the details of your accident, assess whether you have a valid claim, and outline next steps.
- Gathering evidence – This includes medical records (from your GP or local NHS facilities), photographs, witness statements, and any reports submitted to the council or company responsible.
- Valuation of your claim – We calculate your total damages based on pain, suffering, loss of amenity, and out-of-pocket expenses.
- Lodging the claim – We contact the relevant insurer or authority and initiate legal proceedings if necessary.
- Negotiation and settlement – Most cases settle without going to court. However, if required, we will represent your interests throughout the litigation process.
What compensation can cover
Compensation (or damages) is designed to restore your position to what it would have been if the accident had not occurred. This may include:
- General damages – For pain, suffering, and loss of quality of life
- Special damages – To recover financial losses, such as:
- Medical treatment or physiotherapy
- Prescription charges
- Lost earnings or reduced earning capacity
- Travel costs for medical appointments
- Mobility aids or home adaptations
We take a comprehensive approach to make sure every loss you have suffered is included in your claim.
How long do you have to claim?
The general time limit for bringing a public injury claim in the UK is three years from the date of the accident. There are exceptions, such as:
- Claims involving children, where the time limit begins on their 18th birthday
- Cases where the injured person lacks the mental capacity to pursue legal action
It is best to seek legal advice as soon as possible. The earlier you begin, the easier it is to gather reliable evidence and protect your claim.
Do I need to go to court?
Most public accident claims are resolved through negotiation and do not require a court appearance. However, if the responsible party denies liability or disputes the value of your claim, court proceedings may be necessary.
Rest assured, Marley Solicitors will handle all aspects of your case and fight for the compensation you deserve, whether inside or outside the courtroom.
No win, no fee legal service
We understand that many people worry about legal costs when considering a claim. That is why we offer a no win, no fee service, meaning you will not pay us a penny unless your claim is successful.
There are no upfront fees and no financial risk to you. This arrangement gives you the confidence to pursue justice without worrying about your financial situation.
Why choose Marley Solicitors for your public accident claim?
- In-depth local knowledge of Bracknell and surrounding areas
- Strong relationships with local medical providers and legal experts
- Dedicated personal injury specialists with years of experience
- A personal, compassionate service from start to finish
- Clear and transparent communication at every step
We believe that injured individuals deserve dedicated legal representation without stress or confusion. Our clients consistently rate us for professionalism, approachability, and results.
Claim Process FAQs
Can I claim a slip on the pavement in Bracknell?
Yes, if your injury was caused by a defect in the pavement (such as a pothole, uneven surface, or poor maintenance) and the local council or another authority was responsible for that area, you may be entitled to compensation.
How much compensation can I get for a public injury in Bracknell?
The amount varies depending on the severity of the injury, the impact on your daily life, and any financial losses you have incurred. Minor injuries might attract a few thousand pounds, while serious cases involving surgery or permanent impairment may reach tens of thousands. We will give you a personalised estimate after we assess your case.
