By mid-morning, many people are out and about, tackling their shopping lists. Whether you're at a supermarket, shopping centre, clothing store, or DIY shop, shopping often feels routine. However, accidents can happen —from slipping on a spilled yogurt to tripping over an unattended box.

Charlotte Waller , a personal injury solicitor who specialises in accidents in public places, has worked on a number of cases involving public injuries:

• Faulty equipment: Our client was injured when a wall in a changing room at a sports store collapsed as she leaned on it for support.
• Falling objects: Our client was injured at a DIY store when a stack of wooden panels fell on her while she was choosing a piece.
• Obstructed walkways: Our client tripped over an empty shopping basket left behind her at the checkout of a well-known supermarket after paying for her items.

These examples illustrate how accidents can disrupt life in many unexpected ways. It’s not just about the physical injuries either - the emotional toll and financial burden can be significant.

A recent high-profile accident involving a lady who got caught in a shop's security shutters, highlights the need for businesses to guarantee all precautions are taken to protect the public from injury.

The incident went viral and showed the woman left dangling upside down by her coat before a shop assistant ran to help her. The woman was left shaken but fortunately escaped injury.

At Switalskis, we know that accidents often happen because of poorly maintained premises. Hazards such as loose flooring, falling objects, spills, or inadequate lighting can all lead to public liability claims against a business. These accidents, while unfortunate, can often be prevented through diligent inspection, maintenance, and staff training.

For shop owners, prioritising customer safety is not just a legal obligation; it’s essential for fostering a positive shopping experience. By taking proactive steps to maintain safety standards, businesses can help prevent accidents and ensure a safer environment for all shoppers.

What kind of shop or supermarket accidents can I claim for?

Compensation claims for accidents in shops or supermarkets are brought for a wide variety of reasons. If you’ve been injured due to a failure to properly protect your safety, you may have grounds to make a claim.

For more examples of shop and supermarket accidents for which you might be able to make a claim, visit the shop and supermarket accident claims page on our website.

The key point to remember is that if the accident was due to someone else's negligence, such as the shop or supermarket failing to uphold safety standards, then you may have a right to claim. Each case is unique, but we can determine if you have a valid claim.

If you’ve been injured while shopping, our team at Switalskis is here to provide expert guidance and support. We are dedicated to helping you navigate the complexities of personal injury claims with empathy and expertise. Reach out to us for the support you need to get your life back on track. Call 01302 320621 or email help@switalskis.com