Trip and fall accidents can happen in an instant, often leaving individuals with painful injuries and unexpected expenses. If you have experienced a trip or fall in Hungerford that wasn’t your fault, you may be entitled to claim compensation. At Marley Solicitors, we help people like you understand your rights and pursue justice through a professional, tailored legal service.
In this guide, we cover everything you need to know about trip and fall claims in Hungerford, from the causes and legal process to potential compensation amounts and how to get started.
What are trip and fall claims?
Trip and fall claims are a type of personal injury claim made when someone is injured due to unsafe conditions on another person’s property or in a public area. These claims typically arise when a hazard is present that should have been removed, fixed, or clearly marked by those responsible.
In Hungerford, common examples include:
- Uneven or broken pavements
- Wet or slippery floors in shops or restaurants
- Loose cables or cluttered walkways in offices
- Poor lighting in stairwells or corridors
- Missing handrails or defective flooring
The responsibility to prevent such hazards lies with property owners, local councils, and employers, depending on where the accident occurred.
Common injuries resulting from trips and falls
The injuries sustained in trip and fall accidents can range from minor to life-changing. Understanding the type and severity of your injury helps determine the potential value of your claim.
Some common injuries include:
- Sprains and fractures (often wrists, ankles, or hips)
- Head injuries and concussions
- Cuts, bruises, or soft tissue damage
- Back or spinal injuries
- Dislocations
Older adults are especially vulnerable to serious injuries from falls, and the consequences can be long-lasting. It’s vital to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Hungerford is served by local services such as the Hungerford Surgery and the Royal Berkshire NHS Foundation Trust, which may be involved in your diagnosis or treatment.
Who can make a trip and fall claim?
You may be eligible to make a claim if:
- The accident happened within the last three years
- You suffered an injury as a result
- The accident was due to someone else’s negligence or breach of duty
In some cases, the three-year time limit may be extended. For instance, if the injured person was a child at the time, they can claim up to three years from the date they turn 18. If the injured party lacks mental capacity, the time limit may not apply until (or unless) they regain capacity.
What to do after a trip or fall in Hungerford
Taking the right steps immediately after a fall can help support your claim:
- Seek medical help – Your health should come first. Visit your GP or a local hospital for treatment and documentation of your injuries.
- Report the accident – Notify the local authority, business, or property owner where the accident occurred. Request a copy of the incident report if one is made.
- Gather evidence:
- Take photographs of the hazard
- Get witness contact details
- Keep receipts and records of expenses and treatments
- Speak to a solicitor – An experienced solicitor can assess your case and explain your rights clearly.
At Marley Solicitors, we offer a free initial consultation to help you understand whether you have a strong claim.
The claims process
Making a personal injury claim may seem complex, but with the right legal support, it becomes manageable. Here’s how the process works:
Step 1: Free consultation
We discuss the circumstances of your accident, the extent of your injuries, and the evidence available. If we believe your case is strong, we will proceed on a no win, no fee basis.
Step 2: Investigation and evidence gathering
We collect detailed information, including medical reports, witness statements, and photographic evidence. We may also obtain accident reports from the local council or business involved.
Step 3: Letter of claim
A formal letter is sent to the responsible party, outlining the facts of the case, the injuries sustained, and the basis for the claim.
Step 4: Liability response
The other party has a set time to admit or deny liability. If they accept fault, we move to settlement discussions. If they deny liability, we may issue court proceedings.
Step 5: Settlement or court hearing
Many claims are settled out of court. However, if a fair agreement cannot be reached, we will represent you in court to pursue the compensation you deserve.
How much compensation can I claim?
Compensation is based on the type and severity of your injuries and the impact they have had on your life. Generally, it consists of two main parts:
General damages
This compensates for pain, suffering, and loss of enjoyment of life. For example:
- Minor ankle sprain: £1,000–£5,000
- Moderate wrist fracture: £10,000–£15,000
- Serious back injury: £20,000–£100,000+
Special damages
These cover your financial losses and include:
- Lost earnings from time off work
- Medical costs, including physiotherapy
- Travel expenses
- Care and assistance (professional or family help)
- Home adaptations or mobility aids
Each case is different, and our solicitors will calculate a fair value tailored to your specific circumstances.
Where do trip and fall accidents happen in Hungerford?
Being locally based, we understand the areas in Hungerford where these accidents commonly occur. High pedestrian traffic zones and older pavements are more likely to be involved in incidents. These include:
- Hungerford High Street
- Station Road area near Hungerford train station
- Car parks and public walkways near the Kennet and Avon Canal
- Shops and businesses within the Charnham Park Industrial Estate
- Outdoor areas near local schools or health clinics
Accidents may also happen in private homes or residential blocks where landlords have failed in their maintenance responsibilities.
Why choose Marley Solicitors?
We are proud to represent clients in Hungerford with a trusted, friendly, and professional service. Our legal team brings extensive experience in handling trip and fall claims, ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve.
What sets us apart?
- Free initial consultation
- No win, no fee service
- Clear advice with no legal jargon
- Local knowledge and familiarity with Hungerford authorities
- Compassionate, client-focused representation
FAQs
Can I claim for a trip and fall in a shop in Hungerford?
Yes, if you were injured in a shop due to hazards such as wet floors, misplaced items, or damaged flooring, you may have grounds to claim against the business or its insurer.
How long does a trip and fall claim take?
Claims can take anywhere from a few months to over a year, depending on whether the other party accepts liability, the complexity of your injuries, and whether court proceedings are necessary.
Contact Marley Solicitors for a free consultation
If you have suffered a trip or fall in Hungerford, don’t suffer in silence. Marley Solicitors is here to help you secure the compensation you deserve. We handle claims professionally and with care, offering a no win, no fee service that makes seeking justice accessible for all.
Call Marley Solicitors today or visit our office to arrange your free, no-obligation consultation. Our team is ready to listen, support, and fight for your right to compensation.
