Slips in restaurants and bars

Restaurants and bars should be places where people can relax, enjoy food, and spend time with friends or colleagues. However, these environments also present risks, and slips are one of the most common causes of accidents. A spilt drink, a wet floor near the entrance, or cluttered walkways can quickly lead to a serious fall. Injuries may range from minor cuts to long-term health problems that affect work and everyday life.

At Marley Solicitors, we regularly help clients who have been injured in restaurants and bars. We provide expert advice, support with evidence gathering, and strong legal representation to ensure injured people receive the compensation they deserve.

Common causes of slips in restaurants and bars

Accidents in restaurants and bars often happen because safety standards are not properly maintained. Some of the most frequent causes include:

• Spilt food or drinks left on the floor without being cleaned promptly
• Wet floors near entrances during bad weather with no warning signs displayed
• Poor lighting that makes hazards difficult to see
• Loose or uneven flooring such as tiles, rugs, or mats
• Cluttered walkways between tables or near service areas
• Damaged steps, uneven surfaces, or poorly maintained facilities

Owners and managers of restaurants and bars have a duty of care to ensure the premises are safe for both customers and staff.

Typical injuries from slips in hospitality venues

The injuries caused by slips in restaurants and bars vary depending on how and where the accident happens. Some of the most common injuries include:

• Fractures and broken bones, particularly in wrists, arms, and hips
• Sprains and ligament damage in ankles or knees
• Back injuries, sometimes leading to ongoing pain or mobility problems
• Head injuries, including concussion if a person hits the ground hard
• Cuts and bruises from broken glass or sharp objects nearby

In many cases, victims require medical treatment, time away from work, or longer-term rehabilitation. The disruption can be significant.

Duty of care in restaurants and bars

Restaurant and bar owners have a clear legal responsibility to protect both customers and staff from foreseeable risks. This duty of care includes:

• Regularly inspecting the premises for hazards
• Cleaning up spills promptly and placing warning signs when floors are wet
• Keeping walkways and service areas clear of clutter
• Ensuring flooring and steps are safe and well maintained
• Training staff to follow health and safety practices

When owners or managers fail in these duties, and an accident occurs, the injured person may be entitled to compensation.

Proving liability after a slip in a restaurant or bar

To succeed in a slip accident claim, it is necessary to show that the venue failed in its duty of care. Evidence is key. Useful forms include:

• Photographs of the hazard that caused the accident
• CCTV footage, if available
• Witness statements from other customers or staff
• Accident book entries completed at the time
• Medical records confirming the nature of the injuries

At Marley Solicitors, we work closely with clients to collect and present this evidence effectively, ensuring claims are supported with strong documentation.

Compensation for slips in restaurants and bars

The level of compensation depends on the seriousness of the injury and its effect on daily life. Typical heads of claim include:

• General damages for pain, suffering, and reduced quality of life
• Special damages covering medical bills, travel expenses, or equipment needed during recovery
• Lost earnings, where time off work is required
• Future financial losses if the injury has lasting effects
• Costs of physiotherapy, rehabilitation, or care

Our solicitors ensure every aspect of harm and loss is considered when pursuing a claim.

Time limits for making a claim

In most cases, claims for slips in restaurants and bars must be started within three years of the date of the accident. In certain situations, the time limit may run from when the injury was first connected to the accident. For those under 18, the three-year period begins on their 18th birthday.

Seeking legal advice early is always recommended. Acting quickly means evidence is more reliable and the process can begin without unnecessary delay.

What to do after a slip in a restaurant or bar

Taking immediate steps after an accident can make a big difference to your recovery and to any legal claim. The most important actions include:

1. Get medical treatment and ensure the injury is properly recorded.
2. Report the accident to staff and ask for it to be logged in the accident book.
3. Take photographs of the hazard and surrounding area.
4. Collect names and contact details of witnesses.
5. Keep receipts for any expenses related to your injury.
6. Seek legal advice from a solicitor experienced in personal injury claims.

These steps create a strong foundation for any claim and help protect your rights.

No win no fee accident claims

Concerns about legal costs often discourage people from seeking advice. At Marley Solicitors, many claims involving slips in restaurants and bars can be handled on a no win no fee basis. This means you will not pay legal fees if the claim is unsuccessful.

No win no fee agreements allow injured people to pursue compensation without the risk of high upfront costs.

How Marley Solicitors can help

Our personal injury team has significant experience in claims involving slips in restaurants and bars. We understand the challenges clients face after accidents and provide clear guidance every step of the way.

When you choose Marley Solicitors, you can expect:

• Honest advice about the strength of your case
• Support in gathering and presenting strong evidence
• Skilled negotiation with insurers and venue representatives
• Court representation if required

Our goal is to secure fair compensation while making the process as straightforward as possible.

Final thoughts

Slips in restaurants and bars can turn a social outing into a serious accident. Injuries may require medical treatment, time off work, and longer-term recovery. Owners and managers of hospitality venues have a duty to keep their premises safe, and when they fail, injured people are entitled to seek justice.

At Marley Solicitors, we help clients nationwide who have suffered slips in restaurants and bars. Whether the injury is minor or severe, our team is ready to support you in making a claim. Contact us today to discuss your case and take the first step towards compensation.