Slipping on a wet floor can lead to serious injuries, particularly if the fall occurs in a public place or workplace where you have every right to expect safe conditions. For residents of Tynemouth, understanding your legal rights when it comes to wet floor accident claims is essential if you have suffered harm due to someone else’s negligence. Marley Solicitors specialises in personal injury law and helps clients in Tynemouth secure the compensation they deserve.
This guide will explain when you might be eligible to make a claim, what evidence you need, and how our local legal team can support you through the process.
What is a wet floor accident claim?
A wet floor accident claim is a type of personal injury claim that arises when someone slips or falls on a wet or slippery surface. These accidents are often caused by a failure to display clear warning signs, poor maintenance, or uncleaned spills in public or private spaces.
In Tynemouth, these incidents commonly occur in:
- Supermarkets and shopping centres
- GP surgeries, dental clinics, and hospitals (such as North Tyneside General Hospital)
- Schools and nurseries
- Restaurants and cafes
- Workplaces, particularly kitchens or cleaning zones
If you sustained an injury due to a wet floor and someone else was responsible for the hazard or failed to warn you, you may be entitled to make a claim.
Common injuries from wet floor accidents
Slips and falls on wet floors can cause a wide range of injuries. Some of the most common include:
- Sprained wrists or ankles
- Fractures and broken bones
- Head injuries, including concussion or traumatic brain injuries
- Back and spinal injuries
- Cuts and bruising
Even minor injuries can result in time off work, reduced mobility, and psychological distress. If your life has been affected in any way by such an incident, it’s worth exploring your legal options.
Who is responsible for a wet floor accident?
Establishing liability is a crucial part of any claim. Under the Occupiers’ Liability Act 1957, the person or entity responsible for a premises has a legal duty to ensure the safety of visitors. This includes keeping walkways clean and dry or providing adequate warnings when floors are wet.
Potentially responsible parties in Tynemouth may include:
- Local councils (for incidents in public buildings or pavements)
- Business owners or managers
- NHS facilities, such as those managed by Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust
- Employers (for workplace incidents)
If these individuals or organisations failed to take reasonable steps to prevent a wet floor hazard, they could be held liable for your injuries.
What evidence do you need?
Strong evidence can significantly strengthen your claim. If you’ve been involved in a wet floor accident in Tynemouth, try to collect the following:
- Photographs of the scene (including lack of signage)
- Medical records and treatment notes
- Witness statements
- Accident book entries (particularly if it occurred at work or in a business)
- CCTV footage, where possible
Seeking medical attention right away is also crucial. Not only for your health, but also because a medical report will be a key part of your compensation claim.
How long do I have to make a claim?
In the UK, you typically have three years from the date of the accident to make a personal injury claim. This time limit may be extended for children or individuals lacking mental capacity.
It’s advisable to start the process as soon as possible while evidence is fresh and more easily obtainable.
What compensation can I receive?
Compensation in wet floor claims is designed to put you back in the position you were in before the accident. Depending on the severity of your injuries and their impact on your life, you may be entitled to:
- General damages (for pain, suffering, and loss of amenity)
- Special damages (including lost earnings, medical expenses, travel costs, and home adaptations)
Each case is different, so the amount you could receive will depend on the specific details of your situation.
No win, no fee support for Tynemouth residents
At Marley Solicitors, we offer a no win, no fee service, meaning there is no financial risk to you when starting a claim. If your case is unsuccessful, you won’t need to pay our legal fees.
Our dedicated team understands the impact that even a simple slip can have on your life. That’s why we take the time to guide you through every step, ensuring your case is handled with care, professionalism, and a commitment to results.
Local knowledge, national standards
Working with a legal firm that understands your local area can make a real difference. We are familiar with accident hotspots and local facilities in and around Tynemouth, including:
- North Tyneside General Hospital
- Tynemouth Medical Practice
- Percy Street Group Practice
- Tynemouth Dental Practice
This local knowledge, combined with our national legal expertise, means you’ll receive comprehensive support tailored to your needs.
Related services
If your accident occurred in a healthcare setting, you may also wish to explore our medical negligence services. Our team has experience handling cases where inadequate care or clinical oversight contributed to a patient’s injury.
FAQs
Can I claim for a slip in a Tynemouth supermarket?
Yes, if the supermarket failed to warn customers about a wet floor or clean a spill in a reasonable time, you may be entitled to compensation. Make sure to report the incident to staff and gather as much evidence as possible.
How much compensation can I get for a wet floor injury in Tynemouth?
Compensation varies based on your injury’s severity and its effect on your life. Minor injuries might result in a few thousand pounds, while serious injuries involving fractures or long-term rehabilitation could secure significantly more. A solicitor can provide an accurate estimate after assessing your case.
Speak to Marley Solicitors today
If you’ve been injured due to a wet floor accident in Tynemouth, don’t suffer in silence. Our approachable legal team is here to help you understand your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve. Contact Marley Solicitors today for a free, no-obligation consultation and take the first step towards recovery and justice.
