How to Make a Shop Injury Claim

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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Retailers have a legal duty to keep their premises reasonably safe for customers or visitors, so if you’re injured due to a failure in this duty, here’s how to make a shop injury claim. Key points to consider if injured in a public place may include: are wet floor signs in place during mopping, are goods stored properly on shelves to minimise the risk of falling, has there been proper maintenance of shelves and stairs and is there adequate lighting.

Therefore, if you or a loved one has sustained an injury in a shop, you may be entitled to file a claim for compensation.

As these claims can be complex, it’s advisable to speak to a personal injury solicitor who is experienced in public liability claims.

Complete our online form or give us a call to arrange a free consultation with no-obligation. We partner with solicitors who offer No Win, No Fee agreements.

When Can You Make a Shop Injury Claim?

Shops and supermarkets must take reasonable steps to protect the public from harm. If a shop fails in these duties and you get hurt, you can seek compensation for:

• General damages: pain, suffering, and loss of amenity (quality of life)
• Special damages: financial losses such as medical costs, travel expenses, and lost earnings.

Compensation depends on the severity of your injury and financial losses. Your solicitor will calculate a settlement figure based on both elements of damages.

A successful claim not only compensates you but also encourages better safety standards.

What Should You Do Immediately After a Shop Accident?

Your actions straight after the accident are important. They can make the difference between a strong claim and a failed one. Follow these steps carefully:

1. Seek Medical Attention First

• Dial 999 for serious accidents or 111 for urgent medical help.
• If the injury is less serious, visit A&E, an urgent care centre, or your GP.
• Always mention the accident circumstances so the details appear in your medical records.

2. Report the Accident to Shop Staff

• Notify a staff member or manager immediately.
• Ask them to record the incident in the shop’s accident book (a legal requirement in many UK workplaces and retail premises).
• Request a copy or take a photograph of the entry as proof.

3. Collect Evidence on the Spot

• Take photos or videos of the hazard (e.g. spillage, broken tile, poor lighting).
• Photograph your injuries, footwear, and surroundings.
• Gather witness details (names, phone numbers, emails).
• Write down your version of events while fresh in your memory.

4. Keep Receipts and Records

• Retain receipts for medical expenses, taxis, or medication.
• Record lost income if you’ve had time off work.
• Save emails or letters exchanged with the shop or their insurers.

5. Avoid Accepting Blame

• Be polite but careful with what you say. Don’t apologise or admit fault at the scene. Simple statements like “I slipped” can be used against you.

6. Contact a Personal Injury Solicitor

In England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland, personal injury solicitors specialise in shop accident claims. To reduce financial stress, consider a No Win, No Fee agreement, meaning you only pay if your claim succeeds.

How to Make a Shop Injury Claim

Once you’ve handled the immediate steps, here’s how the claims process works:

Step 1: Check Eligibility

To succeed, you must prove:

1. The shop owed you a duty of care.
2. They breached that duty (e.g. unsafe conditions).
3. You suffered injury as a direct result.

Your solicitor will assess whether you have a valid claim during your initial consultation.

Step 2: Time Limits

You normally have three years from the date of the accident, or from the date you realised your injury was caused by the accident to start your claim. Exceptions apply for children (until age 18) or people lacking mental capacity.

Step 3: Letter of Claim

Your solicitor sends a Letter of Claim to the shop or their insurers, setting out:

• How the accident happened
• The injuries sustained
• Supporting evidence

The shop is given a specific time limit in which to investigate and respond.

Step 4: Negotiation

• If liability is admitted, your solicitor negotiates a fair settlement.
• If liability is denied, your solicitor may gather further evidence (e.g. CCTV, expert reports).

Step 5: Court Proceedings (if needed)

Most claims settle out of court. But if the shop refuses to settle, your solicitor will approach the court.

Common Types of Shop Injuries

• Slips, trips, and falls: on wet floors, uneven surfaces, or poorly lit stairs
• Falling objects: stock falling from shelves or displays
• Defective equipment: unsafe trolleys, escalators, or lifts
• Cuts and bruises: from broken glass, shelving, or sharp fixtures

FAQs About Shop Injury Compensation Claims

Q: How long do I have to make a shop injury claim?
A: Generally, have three years from the accident date from the date you realised you have been injured.

Q: Do I need CCTV footage?
A: Not always, but CCTV is powerful evidence. Your solicitor can request footage from the shop, which is usually kept for 30 days so it’s advisable to act quickly.

Q: What evidence do I need for a shop injury claim in the UK?
A: Strong evidence includes photographs of the accident scene, witness statements, the shop’s accident book entry, medical records, and proof of financial losses.

Q: How much compensation can I receive for a shop injury?
A: The amount depends on the severity of your injury and financial losses. Minor injuries may attract a few thousand pounds, while serious cases can be worth much more.

Q: What if the shop denies responsibility for my accident?
A: If the shop denies liability, your solicitor will gather further evidence, such as CCTV, maintenance records, and expert reports, and may pursue the case in court.

What To Do Now?

While not legally required, having a personal injury solicitor increases your chances of success and ensures you claim the correct amount.

So, if you’ve been injured in a shop due to unsafe conditions and the accident was not your fault, it’s vital you get started on your claim as early as possible.

At Jefferies Claims, we work with highly experienced lawyers in this field who operate on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis and we will give you the support and understanding you need.

Call us at 0333 358 3034 or visit Jefferies Claims Contact Us Page for your free, initial consultation.