accidents in public places

If you have suffered an injury, or an attack, in a public place such as a supermarket or a park, you may be entitled to compensation.

Dog attacks and slips and falls in shopping centres are typical of the matters we deal with on behalf of clients.

Types of claims
There are many different types of injuries people suffer which may result in an entitlement to compensation. These include:
• Public places. Generally, public authorities and owners and occupiers of commercial and private premises have a duty to take reasonable care for the safety of people on their property. If they are negligent, they may be sued.
• Shopping centres. Slips and falls are the most common types of accidents in shopping centres. Accidents are usually caused by food or drink that has been dropped or spilled on the floor.
• Schools. Children are entitled to proper supervision while at school so that they are not unduly exposed to physical injury or to bullying.
• Public authorities. These are usually tripping accidents on unsafe or uneven footpaths and roads.
• Sporting accidents. If you are badly injured as a result of a sporting accident, you should seek advice from us. You may have the right to take action against the club, the owner of the ground, the referee or, in some cases, another player.
• Play equipment. Many accidents occur at local parks and playgrounds and often these could have been avoided if proper standards and regular maintenance were applied.
• Dog attacks. If a dog attacks you and you suffer injuries, the owner is automatically liable.

What should I do if I’m injured?
1. Report the incident to the person you think is responsible – immediately. Get their name and address, if possible. Ask any witnesses for their names and addresses.
2. Seek medical attention. Make sure you let the doctor know how the injury occurred.
3. Go back to the scene of the accident as soon as possible and take photos of the area, noting the date the photos were taken. Photos of your injuries can be a good record of how bad your injuries were at the time.
4. Make an appointment to see one of our lawyers.
5. Keep a record of all time off work and any out of pocket expenses including expenses incurred in travelling for medical treatment. Keep all your receipts.
5. If you are contacted by a loss assessor on behalf of the insurer or other party, contact us.

For more information, call us on 1800 640 497.