Back injuries can be life-changing. Whether it’s a slipped disc, a fractured vertebra or chronic pain from muscle strain, a serious back injury can stop you from working and enjoying daily life. According to an Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) report, 16% of Australians experience back problems in their lifetime.
If your back injury was caused by someone else’s negligence in a public place, you may be entitled to compensation through a public liability claim.
In this guide, we will explain everything you need to know about making a public liability claim for a back injury, from eligibility to compensation and the process.
What Is a Public Liability Claim?
Public liability law protects individuals who suffer injuries due to unsafe public or private property conditions. If a business, property owner or government body fails to take reasonable steps to prevent hazards, they can be held responsible for the resulting injuries.
A public liability claim allows injured individuals to claim for medical expenses, lost wages and pain and suffering caused by the accident.
Common Causes of Back Injuries in Public Spaces
Back injuries can happen anywhere, but here are some of the most common:
- Slip, Trip and Fall Accidents – Uneven walkways, wet floors and poorly maintained stairs can cause you to lose your balance and fall, resulting in fractures or herniated discs.
- Falling Objects – If an item falls from a shelf in a supermarket or warehouse and hits you, it can cause severe spinal injuries.
- Bad Seating or Furniture – Chairs or benches that collapse due to lack of maintenance can cause sudden falls, resulting in lower back injuries.
- Lifting Heavy Objects – If you’re asked to lift a heavy object in a public place—work or gym—without proper guidance or safety measures, you could strain or injure your back.
- Vehicle Accidents in Public Spaces – Car parks and pedestrian zones can be dangerous if vehicles are not well managed. A sudden collision can cause whiplash or spinal damage.
If your back injury was caused by one of these, then you may have a case for a public liability claim.
When Can You Make a Back Injury Claim?
Not every back injury qualifies for compensation. To make a successful public liability claim, you need to prove that:
- Someone else was responsible for the accident (could be a business, property owner, or government entity)
- The responsible authority failed to take reasonable precautions
- Your injury led to financial, physical, or emotional damages
What to Do After a Back Injury: Steps to File a Public Liability Claim
Suffering a back injury in a public place can be overwhelming but knowing what to do can make a big difference to your recovery and claim. If someone else’s negligence caused your injury, you may be entitled to compensation under public liability laws.
An expert public liability lawyer will help you through the whole process. The steps will be:
Step 1: Get Medical Attention ASAP
Your health comes first. Even if the pain seems manageable, back injuries can get worse over time. Get to a doctor as soon as possible to assess the extent of your injury and get medical records that will be crucial evidence for your claim.
Step 2: Report the Incident
Notify the property owner, manager or relevant authority about the accident. If it was in a shopping centre, workplace or public area, your lawyer will file an incident report and get a copy for your records.
Step 3: See a Public Liability Lawyer
Public liability claims can be complicated and insurers will try to minimize payouts. A lawyer specialising in personal injury claims will help assess your case and gather more evidence.
After they review your claim, the insurer may make an offer. You can accept if it’s fair and covers your losses. But if negotiations don’t go well, you may need to go to court.
Your lawyer will guide you through this process to get you the compensation you’re entitled to. Contact Wyatts’ personal injury lawyers to see what’s best for your case.
Step 4: Gather Evidence at the Scene
Strong evidence will support your claim and increase the chances of a successful outcome. Your personal injury lawyer will collect:
- Photos and videos of the accident scene showing the hazard that caused your fall
- Witness statements and their contact details
- A copy of the incident report (if available)
- Medical records and receipts for treatments
Step 5: Keep a Record of Your Expenses
Back injuries can result in medical bills, lost income and ongoing rehabilitation costs. Keep a record of:
- Medical treatments and prescriptions
- Physiotherapy or chiropractic visits
- Transport to medical appointments
- Lost wages if you had to take time off work
How Much Compensation Can You Receive from a Back Injury?
The amount you receive depends on several factors, including:
- Medical expenses – Hospital bills, physiotherapy, and ongoing treatments
- Loss of income – Compensation for missed work and future earning capacity
- Pain and suffering – Compensation for long-term discomfort and reduced quality of life
- Rehabilitation costs – Costs of physiotherapy, chiropractic care, and other treatments
Severe back injuries—especially those leading to permanent disability—often result in higher payouts.
In Australia, public liability claims have a 3-year time limit. But for serious injuries, there are exceptions. Get legal advice as soon as possible to avoid missing out.
Seek Help from a Public Liability Claims Lawyer
A back injury due to someone else’s negligence can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. A public liability lawyer can increase your chances of getting the compensation you’re entitled to.
Call Wyatts’ personal injury lawyers on 1800 773 880 today to discuss your options. We’ll guide you through the process – from eligibility to making a claim – you’ll be fully covered!
