Accidents in public places can have serious consequences, both physically and financially. If you have suffered an injury in a public area in Wokingham and it was not your fault, you may be entitled to make a compensation claim. Understanding your rights and the claims process can help ensure you get the justice and support you deserve.
At Marley Solicitors, we specialise in helping people in Wokingham make successful claims for public accidents. Our expert legal team is here to provide clear advice, practical support and strong representation throughout the process.
What is a public accident claim?
A public accident claim is a type of personal injury claim made when someone is injured in a place that is open to the public, and the injury was caused by negligence. These places can include parks, pavements, supermarkets, shopping centres, cars, public transport stations, and even council-owned properties.
The most common public accidents involve:
- Slips, trips and falls on poorly maintained pavements or floors
- Accidents in shops or supermarkets due to spillages or unsafe displays
- Injuries in car parks caused by potholes or defective surfaces
- Accidents in playgrounds or parks with broken equipment
- Falling objects in public buildings
To make a successful claim, it must be shown that the responsible party – often the local authority, a business owner or a maintenance company – failed in their duty of care to maintain a safe environment.
Who is responsible for your injury?
Responsibility depends on where the accident occurred. In Wokingham, for example, the Borough Council is responsible for maintaining pavements, roads, and public spaces. If a poorly maintained pavement caused your injury, the council may be liable.
If the incident happened at a privately owned location, such as a supermarket or shopping centre, the company that owns or operates the premises is usually responsible. Businesses have a legal obligation to keep their premises safe for visitors under the Occupiers’ Liability Act 1957.
Our team at Marley Solicitors can investigate the circumstances of your accident, gather evidence and identify who should be held accountable.
What should you do after a public accident in Wokingham?
If you are injured in a public place in Wokingham, there are steps you can take to support your future claim:
- Seek medical attention – Always prioritise your health. Visit your GP, a local urgent care centre or a nearby hospital, such as Wokingham Community Hospital. A medical record provides vital evidence.
- Report the accident – Report the incident to the local council or the manager of the premises where it occurred. Keep a copy of any correspondence or report.
- Gather evidence – Take photos of the accident scene, the hazard that caused your injury and any visible injuries. Collect the names and contact details of any witnesses.
- Keep a record – Note down details of the accident while they are fresh in your mind. Keep receipts or records of any expenses related to your injury, including travel, prescriptions or lost earnings.
- Contact Marley Solicitors – We offer a free initial consultation to help assess your case and explain your options.
How Marley Solicitors supports public accident claims in Wokingham
Our experienced personal injury solicitors are highly skilled in handling public accident claims. We understand the stress and disruption these accidents cause and work hard to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
We offer a no win, no fee service, which means you do not pay any legal fees unless your case is successful. This makes the process risk-free and accessible to everyone.
Our services include:
- A free initial consultation to review your case
- Detailed investigation and evidence gathering
- Dealing with insurers and responsible parties on your behalf
- Access to medical experts and rehabilitation services where needed
- Strong negotiation to secure the maximum possible compensation
Our local knowledge of Wokingham and the surrounding areas, along with experience dealing with Wokingham Borough Council and other relevant bodies, ensures we are well placed to support your case.
Common injuries from public accidents
The severity of injuries in public places can vary, but common examples include:
- Broken bones and fractures
- Head and brain injuries
- Back and spinal injuries
- Cuts and lacerations
- Soft tissue damage
- Dental injuries
The physical and emotional impact of these injuries can be long-lasting. In addition to pain and discomfort, they can cause time off work, loss of income and a reduced quality of life. Compensation aims to cover these losses and support your recovery.
How much compensation could you receive?
The amount of compensation depends on the nature and severity of your injury, the impact it has had on your daily life and any financial losses you have incurred. Compensation is usually split into two parts:
- General damages – for pain, suffering and loss of amenity
- Special damages – for out-of-pocket expenses like medical treatment, travel and loss of earnings
Our solicitors will assess your case thoroughly and work to secure the full compensation you are entitled to.
Time limits for making a public accident claim
In most cases, you have three years from the date of the accident to start a claim. However, there are some exceptions, such as for children or people lacking mental capacity. We recommend contacting a solicitor as soon as possible to avoid any issues with deadlines and to gather the most accurate evidence.
Local support services in Wokingham
If you’ve been injured, you may also need support from healthcare providers. Some relevant services in the area include:
- Wokingham Community Hospital (part of Berkshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust)
- Wokingham Medical Centre
- Finchampstead Surgery
- The Royal Berkshire NHS Foundation Trust (serving nearby Reading)
These services can assist with ongoing treatment, rehabilitation and medical documentation to support your claim.
Am I eligible to claim for a public accident in Wokingham if I did not report it immediately?
Yes, you can still make a claim, but it is important to gather additional evidence, such as photographs, witness statements, and medical records. Reporting the incident as soon as possible strengthens your case, so speak to a solicitor promptly.
How much compensation can I get for a fall on a pavement in Wokingham?
The amount depends on the severity of your injury, any lasting effects and your financial losses. For example, a simple fracture might attract compensation between £2,000 and £5,000, while more serious injuries can result in much higher settlements. We can provide a tailored estimate after reviewing your circumstances.
Contact Marley Solicitors for expert legal help in Wokingham
If you or a loved one has been injured in a public place in Wokingham, do not face the process alone. Marley Solicitors are here to help you claim the compensation you deserve with professional, compassionate support.
Contact our team today for a free consultation. We will review your case, explain your rights and advise you on the best course of action. With our no win, no fee service, you have nothing to lose and everything to gain.
Call Marley Solicitors now or fill out our online form to get started with your public accident claim in Wokingham.
