Can I Claim if Injured by Falling Masonry?

Written by Tanya Waterworth, Digital Content Writer

About Our Legal Expert: This content is produced with oversight by Michael Jefferies, Managing Director who has over 30 years’ legal experience.

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Accidents involving falling masonry occur more often than many people think and a common question is ‘Can I claim if injured by falling masonry?’  Whether you were walking past a building, working on a construction site, or simply standing near a wall when bricks or debris came loose, the injuries caused may be serious. The short answer is yes you can claim compensation – providing negligence can be proven

The law protects you from harm caused by unsafe premises and inadequate safety standards. We partner with personal injury lawyers who are experienced in injuries caused by falling objects.

If you want to find out today if you have a claim, simply contact us for your initial, no-obligation consultation which is free.

Safety and Falling Masonry Accidents

Property owners, landlords, employers, and contractors all have a duty of care to keep buildings safe. If masonry falls and injures you, it may be caused by poor maintenance or a failure to follow health and safety regulations. For example:

• Landlords and property owners must ensure their buildings are structurally sound.
• Employers must protect workers by providing safe equipment, training, and a secure working environment.
• Construction site managers must follow strict safety rules to prevent falling objects.

If any of these parties breach their duty of care, and you suffer an injury as a result, you may have a strong personal injury claim for compensation

Common Causes of Falling Masonry Accidents

Falling masonry can result from several factors and many of these may be avoidable with proper maintenance and safety precautions. These may include:

• Weather damage such as storms or heavy rain loosening brickwork.
• Poor construction or use of substandard materials.
• Lack of building inspections or delayed repairs.
• Unsafe scaffolding or ongoing construction work.
• Vibration from nearby building projects or heavy traffic.

Having a clear understanding of the cause of your accident is vital, as it helps identify who is responsible and strengthens your claim.

Injuries You Could Sustain from Falling Masonry

The injuries caused by falling masonry can range from minor to severe. Common injuries may include:

• Head injuries or concussions.
• Broken bones and fractures.
• Cuts, bruises, and lacerations.
• Spinal or back injuries.
• Psychological trauma such as anxiety or PTSD.

Because falling debris often strikes without warning, victims seldom have the chance to protect themselves. This sudden impact can lead to severe consequences that may affect your ability to work and live normally.

Can I Claim if Injured by Falling Masonry?

Yes, you can usually make a claim if someone else’s negligence caused the accident. To succeed, you must show:

1. Duty of care – The responsible party had a legal obligation to ensure your safety.
2. Breach of duty – They failed to meet that obligation, for example, by ignoring building defects.
3. Causation – The breach directly caused your injury.
4. Damages – You suffered physical, emotional, or financial losses.

If all four elements are present, you stand a good chance of securing compensation.

When Do You Start a Personal Injury Claim?

Timing is important and the standard limitation period for personal injury claims is three years from the date of the accident – or from the date you became aware of your injury. However, there are some exceptions:

• Children – A parent or guardian can make a claim on their behalf any time before the child turns 18. Once they turn 18, they have until their 21st birthday to claim.
• Mental capacity – If the injured person lacks the mental capacity to make a claim, the time limit may not apply until (and if) they regain capacity.

Evidence is easier to gather shortly after the accident, such as CCTV footage or medical records. Therefore, it’s best to seek legal advice and start the process as soon as possible.

How to Start Your Personal Injury Claim After a Falling Masonry Injury

Starting a claim may seem overwhelming, but breaking it down into steps makes it easier to manage:

1. Seek medical attention immediately – This ensures your injuries are treated and recorded, providing essential evidence.
2. Report the incident – If it happened at work, notify your employer and ensure it’s logged in the accident book. If it occurred in a public place, report it to the local council or property manager.
3. Gather evidence – Take photos of the scene, your injuries, and the falling masonry. Collect witness details and if possible, CCTV footage. In addition, make sure you keep receipts for any expenses related to your injury.
4. Seek legal advice – Contact a specialist personal injury solicitor who can assess your case and explain your options. The solicitors we work with offer No Win, No Fee agreements and will seek maximum compensation for your case.
5. File your claim – Your solicitor will contact the responsible party or their insurers to begin negotiations for compensation.

What Can You Claim For?

Compensation covers more than just your physical injuries. Depending on your circumstances, you may be able to claim for:

• General damages – Pain, suffering, and loss of amenity (quality of life).
• Special damages – Financial losses such as medical expenses, travel costs, and lost income.
• Future losses – If your injuries affect your ability to work long-term or require ongoing care.
• Rehabilitation support – Physiotherapy, counselling, or specialist equipment.

Your solicitor will help calculate the value of your claim, ensuring you receive fair compensation.

FAQs: Claims for Falling Masonry Injuries

If you have been injured through no fault of yours by falling masonry, you may be entitled to claim personal injury compensation in the UK:

Q1: When can I claim compensation if I’m injured by falling masonry?
If negligence caused the accident, such as poor building maintenance or unsafe construction work, you can usually claim compensation for your injuries and financial losses.

Q2: Who is responsible if falling masonry injures me?
Responsibility may fall on the property owner, landlord, employer, or construction site manager. They have a duty of care to ensure buildings and work sites are safe.

Q3: How long do I have to make a claim for falling masonry injuries?
In most cases, you have three years from the date of the accident or from when you became aware of your injury. Exceptions apply for children and those lacking mental capacity.

Q4: What evidence do I need for a falling masonry claim?
You should collect medical records, photographs of the scene and injuries, witness statements, accident reports, and receipts for any expenses related to your injury.

Q5: How much compensation could I receive for falling masonry injuries?
Compensation depends on the severity of your injuries, financial losses, and any long-term impact on your life. A solicitor can calculate your potential settlement

Why Choose a Specialist Solicitor?

Personal injury law can be complex, and claims involving falling masonry can be especially challenging because they often involve multiple parties. An experienced solicitor will:

• Investigate the cause of the accident.
• Gather evidence to prove who was at fault (liability).
• Handle communication with insurers.
• Maximise your compensation by considering both current and future losses.

Choosing the right solicitor not only improves your chances of success but also reduces the stress of managing a claim yourself. 

Get Started on Your Claim

If you’ve been injured by falling masonry, you may feel unsure where to turn. However, if negligence caused your accident, you may be eligible to pursue a claim for compensation. Acting quickly, gathering evidence, and seeking professional legal advice will give you the best chance of a successful outcome.

Our team can guide you through the process. Contact Jefferies Claims today at 0333 358 3034 or complete our online contact form to arrange your free telephone consultation.

Written by Tanya Waterworth, Digital Content Writer