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Slip and Trip Claims

Slips, trips and falls compensation claims

A slip, trip or fall can happen in seconds but result in serious, long-lasting consequences. Injuries can range from sprains and fractures to head injuries and back problems, often leading to pain, reduced mobility, time off work, and financial pressure.

These accidents can occur in many different settings, including workplaces, shops, supermarkets, car parks, pavements, and other public or privately owned spaces. In many cases, they happen because a hazard has not been properly addressed, such as wet or uneven flooring, poor lighting, loose surfaces, or obstructed walkways.

If you have been injured in a slip, trip or fall that was not your fault, you may be entitled to bring a compensation claim. These claims are based on proving that a third party was responsible for maintaining a safe environment and failed to take reasonable steps to prevent the accident.

Evidence is often important in establishing a claim, including photographs of the accident location, witness accounts, accident reports, and medical records. Acting quickly can help ensure that key evidence is preserved.

At Ellis-Fermor & Negus, our personal injury team supports clients through every stage of slip, trip and fall claims. We provide clear advice on whether you have a claim, what compensation may cover, and how the process works from start to finish.

We focus on keeping the process straightforward and well-managed, helping you understand your options while we handle the legal aspects of your claim.

Our aim is to help you secure fair compensation and support your recovery, while reducing stress and uncertainty during the process.

 

Have a question? Jump to our FAQs ↓

 

A solicitor from Ellis-Fermor & Negus engaging in a client consultation at their office in the East Midlands, providing legal advice.

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Ben provided me with excellent advice and dealt with my matter swiftly and efficiently.

Ben Bourne

Director and Solicitor

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Why Choose Ellis-Fermor & Negus for Slip and Trip Claims?

Funding Options Available

Many slip and trip claims can be funded on a no-win, no-fee basis, subject to suitability.

Experience in Sensitive Claims

We have extensive experience handling slip and trip claims with care, discretion and professionalism.

Clear, Compassionate Advice

We explain complex legal issues in plain English and proceed at a pace that feels right for you.

Our team has a strong track record of achieving substantial compensation rewards.

Robust Representation

While sensitive, we are firm when protecting your family’s interests

Meet the team

Ben Bourne

Ben Bourne is one of our directors and works within our Commercial Litigation and Charity Law departments. Ben is a member of the Charity Law Association and has also served on a number of Charity Trustee Boards.

01159 221 591

b.bourne@ellis-fermor.co.uk

Ben Bourne is based at our Beeston Office.

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Close-up portrait of a professional solicitor from Ellis-Fermor & Negus, showcasing approachable legal expertise in East Midlands.

Claire Bristol

Claire has specialised in Personal Injury and Debt Collection for over 20 years. Claire attended Sheffield University where she obtained a BA Hons in Medieval & Modern History. After working as an Insurance broker and obtaining Insurance qualifications, Claire gained employment as a trainee Legal Executive and qualified as a Legal Executive in 1994 (known…

01773 744 744

c.bristol@ellis-fermor.co.uk

Claire Bristol is based at our Ripley Office.

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Charlotte Price

Charlotte qualified as a Solicitor in 2025 having joined the firm as a trainee in 2023. Prior to that, she studied LLB Law at the University of Nottingham, graduating in 2022 with a first. She then completed the LLM Legal Practice Course at Nottingham Law School. Charlotte provides advice on a range of civil disputes…

0115 972 5222

Charlotte.Price@ellis-fermor.co.uk

Charlotte Price is based at our Long Eaton Office.

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Reviews, what our clients are saying…

‘We met Tim Jones at a very anxious time for us …..he was kind and caring going the extra mile to ease our concerns .Tim was very knowledgeable and professional .Tim kept us updated at all times during the process…his advice was always sensible .Tim was very approachable ..we would highly recommend Tim and will use him again we trust him …’

‘Darren, Sarah and the team were incredible – so supportive and understanding throughout the process. This was my first experience requiring a solicitor of this nature, and they took the time to explain the steps clearly and answer all my (many) questions. They always answer the phone first time, respond to emails quickly and handled the whole situation very swiftly, professionally and with care, with a positive result at the end. Thank you so much Darren, Sarah and team!’

‘Ben provided me with some excellent advice and dealt with my matter swiftly and efficiently. His friendly but professional manner and the way he described and explained the various clauses gave me the confidence that I needed to sign the documentation without hesitation. Thanks also goes to Eliza for making the necessary arrangements and keeping me informed.’

‘EF&N responded to my initial enquiry very diligently and quickly. That level of service continued through to closing out the matter. We are very satisfied with the service provided by Darren Kelly and his team. Lines of communication were clear. The EFN team were easy to contact and responded to correspondence quickly. EFN will be our ‘go to’ firm of solicitors for all legal matters in future. Many thanks.’

‘Tim jones, acted quickly and made sure to give me time of day even with my busy schedule. Tim made things super easy to understand. Will definitely use again if needed, and recommend Tim, thankyou.’

Frequently Asked Questions

A slip and trip claim is a legal claim for compensation following an injury caused by unsafe premises or poorly maintained land.

Those responsible for premises – such as employers, local authorities, shops, landlords and businesses – have a legal duty to take reasonable steps to keep people safe. This includes:

  • Carrying out inspections
  • Fixing hazards promptly
  • Providing warnings where risks cannot be removed
  • Maintaining floors, walkways and outdoor areas
  • Protection of Interests – Safeguarding directors, shareholders, and business assets.

When this duty is breached and someone is injured, a slip and trip claim may arise.

  • Workplace slip and trips
  • Public places and streets
  • Supermarkets and shops
  • Restaurants, bars and hotels
  • Residential premises
  • Car parks and outdoor areas

Slip and trip accidents can cause a wide range of injuries, including:

  • Broken wrists, arms and ankles
  • Hip and pelvic fractures
  • Knee injuries
  • Back and spinal injuries
  • Head and brain injuries
  • Soft tissue injuries
  • Psychological injuries such as anxiety and loss of confidence

To bring a successful slip and trip claim, it must usually be shown that:

1. There was a hazard present

2. The responsible party knew or should have known about it

3. Reasonable steps were not taken to remove or warn of the risk

4. You suffered an injury as a result

Many people assume they cannot claim if they were partly responsible – for example, if they did not see a hazard.

This is not necessarily true. You may still be able to bring a claim under the principle of contributory negligence. Compensation may be reduced, but a claim can still succeed.

  • Step 1: Initial consultation
  • Step 2: Evidence gathering
  • Step 3: Medical evidence
  • Step 4: Valuing your compensation
  • Step 5: Negotiation and settlement
  • Step 6: Court proceedings (if necessary)

Timescales depend on complexity:

  • Straightforward claims: 6–9 months
  • Moderate injuries: 9–15 months
  • Serious injuries: Longer, to assess future needs

We keep you fully informed at every stage.

This depends on injury severity and financial losses. We provide realistic guidance early on.

Photos can help but are not essential. We can often obtain evidence later.

Most claims must be started within three years of the accident date.

Yes, but local authority claims require specific evidence and prompt action.

Most slip and trip claims settle without court proceedings.

Yes, lack of warning signs can support your claim.

Start Your Slip and Trip Claim Today

If you have been injured in a slip or trip accident, early legal advice can make a significant difference.

• Phone:

0115 972 5222 (Long Eaton)

0115 896 3390 (West Bridgford)

0115 922 1591 (Beeston)

01773 821665 (Belper)

01773 744744 (Ripley)

• Email: infomation@ellis-fermor.co.uk

• Online Enquiry: ellis-fermor.co.uk/contact-us

Get expert advice on your slip and trip claim today

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