Neck injuries can lead to chronic pain, restricted movement and long-term disabilities that affect your ability to work and enjoy daily activities. If you’ve got a neck injury in a public place due to hazardous conditions or someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation through a public liability claim.
But the question is: “How do you know if your case qualifies, and what steps should you take to get fair compensation?”
In this article, we will help you understand the neck injuries that qualify for a public liability claim and how a public liability lawyer can help you through the process.
Understanding Public Liability Claims for Neck Injuries
A public liability claim is a legal process where you seek compensation for injuries caused by hazardous conditions in public places. These claims are made against businesses, local councils or property owners who are responsible for maintaining safe environments.
Neck injuries can happen in many ways, often due to unsafe conditions. Some common causes include:
- Slips, trips, and falls – Wet floors, uneven pavements, poor lighting, and loose carpets can all lead to falls that cause neck injuries.
- Falling objects – Items falling from supermarket shelves or unsecured signs in public areas can cause direct trauma to the neck.
- Defective furniture or structures – Broken chairs, unstable railings, or faulty escalators can lead to sudden jerking movements that strain the neck.
- Car accidents in public areas – If you were injured in a parking lot or due to a public transport accident, you might have a claim.
If someone else’s negligence caused your injury, you may be able to make a public liability claim. Contact Wyatts’ experienced personal injury lawyers to find out your chances of winning.
How To Determine If You Have a Valid Public Liability Claim
To qualify for a public liability claim, you need to prove that:
- The responsible party (business owner, council, or property manager) had a duty of care.
- They failed to take reasonable steps to prevent the hazard.
- The hazard directly caused your neck injury.
- You suffered losses (medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering).
Examples of Successful Claims
- A customer slipping on a wet floor in a supermarket with no warning signs.
- A person hit by falling signage in a shopping mall.
- A pedestrian tripping on an unrepaired pothole on a public footpath.
You may have a strong case if your situation resembles any of these.
How to File a Public Liability Claim for a Neck Injury
If you get a neck injury in a public place, taking immediate action can strengthen your claim. The best way to do this is to seek help from an expert public liability lawyer. Here’s what to do:
Step 1: Get Medical Attention Immediately
Neck injuries can get worse over time, so get a proper diagnosis as soon as possible. Your medical records will also be important evidence for your claim.
Step 2: Report the Incident
Your lawyer will send a formal notice to the party at fault and their insurer outlining the details of your injury and claim. Request a copy of the incident report if one is made.
Step 3: Contact a Public Liability Lawyer
A public liability lawyer will review your case, get more evidence and negotiate with the insurer on your behalf. Most claims are settled outside of court. The insurer may offer compensation and your lawyer will negotiate to make sure it covers your medicals, lost wages and pain and suffering.
You may need to go to court if the insurer doesn’t offer a fair settlement. Your lawyer will walk you through the court process to get you the compensation you’re entitled to.
Step 4: Gather Evidence
- Take photos and videos of the accident scene, including the hazards that caused your injury.
- Get witness statements and their contact details.
- Keep medical reports and any treatment received.
- Keep receipts for medical expenses, transport costs and lost wages.
Step 5: Document Your Pain and Recovery
Keep a personal record of your symptoms, treatment and how the injury affects your daily activities. This will help prove the damage caused by pain and suffering.
What Compensation Can You Receive?
The amount of compensation depends on the severity of your injury and its impact on your life. You may be entitled to:
- Medical expenses – Doctor visits, physiotherapy, surgery, and medications.
- Lost income – Compensation for missed work and potential future earnings.
- Pain and suffering – Non-economic damages for physical pain and emotional distress.
- Home care and modifications – If you need assistance or modifications for mobility.
To improve your chances of winning a neck injury claim, gather strong evidence, seek medical attention promptly, and work with an experienced lawyer.
Contact a Public Liability Claim Lawyer to Evaluate Your Eligibility
A neck injury claim can help cover medical bills, lost income, and ongoing treatment costs. However, public liability claims can be tricky, so it’s best to consult a lawyer who specialises in personal injury cases.
If you’ve suffered a neck injury due to someone else’s negligence, our public liability lawyers will ensure you get compensation for your pain and suffering. Contact us at 1800 773 880 now or complete an online enquiry form to get started!
