Slip and fall accidents in supermarkets and shops

Going shopping should be a safe and routine activity, yet slips and falls in supermarkets and shops remain one of the most common causes of personal injury. A wet floor, a loose mat, or a poorly stacked display can quickly turn an ordinary shopping trip into an unexpected accident. For many people, the consequences are more than just a bruised ego. Injuries can be painful, disruptive, and costly to recover from.

At Marley Solicitors, we regularly support clients who have been injured in slip and fall accidents in supermarkets and retail shops. Our team helps people understand their rights, build strong claims, and secure fair compensation.

Common causes of slip and fall accidents in shops

Slips, trips, and falls often occur because basic safety procedures have not been followed. Some of the most common hazards include:

• Spilled liquids on the floor that are not cleaned promptly
• Wet floors without warning signs
• Loose mats, rugs, or floor coverings that catch a person’s foot
• Poorly stacked products or displays that collapse
• Defective flooring, uneven tiles, or damaged carpets
• Cluttered aisles that obstruct safe movement

In each case, the responsibility for safety lies with the store owners and managers. They must maintain the premises to a reasonable standard, ensuring hazards are identified and addressed quickly.

Typical injuries after supermarket slips

The severity of injuries in a supermarket or shop accident varies depending on the circumstances. Some people suffer only minor cuts or bruises, while others experience lasting harm. Common injuries include:

• Fractures or broken bones, particularly to wrists, arms, or hips
• Sprains and ligament injuries in ankles and knees
• Back injuries caused by awkward falls or sudden impact
• Head injuries, including concussion, if the person hits the ground forcefully
• Cuts and abrasions from sharp objects or broken displays

Recovery from these injuries may involve medical treatment, time off work, and ongoing therapy. The disruption to daily life can be significant, and in many cases, the accident could have been prevented.

Duty of care in supermarkets and shops

Under UK law, supermarket and shop owners have a duty of care to ensure that customers and visitors are safe while on their premises. This duty includes:

• Carrying out regular inspections of the store
• Cleaning up spills as quickly as possible
• Displaying clear warning signs when floors are wet
• Maintaining aisles in a tidy condition free from obstacles
• Repairing damaged flooring and fixtures without unnecessary delay

When this duty is breached, and someone suffers an injury as a result, the injured person may be entitled to pursue compensation.

Proving liability after a slip and fall

Establishing responsibility is a key step in any slip and fall claim. Evidence can make the difference between a strong case and one that is dismissed. Useful forms of evidence include:

• Photographs of the hazard that caused the accident
• CCTV footage from the store
• Accident book entries made at the time of the incident
• Witness statements from other shoppers or staff
• Medical records confirming the nature of the injuries

At Marley Solicitors, we help clients gather and present this evidence clearly, ensuring that liability is established and the claim is supported with the strongest possible case.

Compensation for slip and fall accidents

The amount of compensation available depends on several factors, including the severity of the injury, the impact on daily life, and financial losses. Typical heads of claim include:

• General damages for pain, suffering, and loss of amenity
• Special damages for financial costs, such as medical treatment and travel expenses
• Loss of earnings, where time off work is required
• Future care and rehabilitation, if the injury causes lasting impairment

Every case is unique, which is why professional legal advice is essential. Our solicitors work to ensure clients receive fair compensation that reflects both immediate and long-term needs.

Time limits for making a claim

Slip and fall claims are generally subject to a three-year limitation period in England and Wales. This means a claim must be started within three years of the date of the accident, or in some cases, three years from when the injury was first linked to the incident. For children, the three-year period begins on their 18th birthday.

It is always better to seek advice as soon as possible, while evidence is still fresh and witness accounts are easier to obtain.

What to do if you have a supermarket slip accident

If you are involved in a slip or fall in a shop, taking the right steps immediately can help protect both your health and your legal position:

1. Seek medical attention, even for minor injuries, to ensure proper treatment and create a record.
2. Report the accident to the store and ask for it to be recorded in the accident book.
3. Gather evidence, including photos of the hazard and contact details for witnesses.
4. Keep receipts for any expenses related to your injury.
5. Contact a solicitor to discuss whether you have grounds to make a claim.

By acting quickly, you increase the chances of a successful outcome.

No win no fee supermarket accident claims

Many clients are understandably concerned about the cost of pursuing legal action. At Marley Solicitors, we can often handle supermarket accident claims on a no win no fee basis. This means you will not pay legal fees if your claim is unsuccessful. The arrangement allows people to pursue justice without financial risk.

No win no fee agreements can make the process accessible to everyone, ensuring that valid claims are not abandoned because of cost concerns.

How Marley Solicitors can help

Our personal injury team has extensive experience handling claims involving slip and fall accidents in supermarkets and shops. We combine legal expertise with a practical, supportive approach, guiding clients through every step.

When you instruct Marley Solicitors, you can expect:

• Clear and honest advice about the strength of your case
• Support in gathering and presenting evidence effectively
• Skilled negotiation with insurers and store representatives
• Court representation where necessary

We are committed to helping clients secure compensation fairly and efficiently.

Final thoughts

Slip and fall accidents in supermarkets and shops can have life-changing consequences. From broken bones to lasting mobility issues, the impact can be both physical and financial. Store owners have a clear responsibility to keep their premises safe, and when they fail, injured shoppers have the right to seek compensation.

At Marley Solicitors, we provide expert legal support to those affected by these accidents. Whether your injury is minor or severe, our team is here to guide you through the claims process. Contact us today to discuss your case, and let us help you move forward with confidence.