Imagine you’re walking through a shopping centre when suddenly you slip on a wet floor that wasn’t marked. Or perhaps you’re in a park when a broken bench collapses and you hurt your leg. These everyday situations can cause painful injuries that impact your work, lifestyle and overall well-being.
What happens next? Are you entitled to compensation? In Australia, public liability laws exist to protect individuals who suffer injuries caused by someone else’s negligence. If you’ve hurt your arm, hand, leg or foot in a public place—whether it’s a slippery floor, a broken step or an unexpected hazard—you may have a claim.
This article will break down the basics of public liability claims for limb injuries, including what qualifies, how to claim and what compensation you may be entitled to.
What Leads to Limb Injuries in Public Places?
Limb injuries can occur in many public places, often due to:
- Slips, trips and falls – Wet floors, uneven footpaths, poor lighting and loose carpets can cause serious falls.
- Falling objects – Items falling from shelves or unsecured signs can cause fractures or sprains.
- Faulty furniture or equipment – Broken chairs, unstable stairs and malfunctioning escalators can lead to serious injuries.
- Sports or recreational activities – Poorly maintained gym equipment, unsafe playgrounds or neglected sports facilities can cause harm.
If unsafe conditions and negligence caused your injury, you may be able to make a public liability claim. It will allow you to claim for arm, hand, leg or foot injuries sustained in public spaces due to negligence.
These claims can be made against businesses, local councils or property owners who are responsible for maintaining a safe environment. If their failure to do so caused your arm, hand, leg or foot injury, you may have a case.
What Limb Injuries Can You Claim for Under Public Liability?
You may be able to claim compensation for various injuries affecting your limbs, including:
- Fractures and broken bones – Common in falls and accidents involving heavy objects.
- Sprains and strains – Caused by sudden twists, slips, or falls.
- Dislocations – Can occur due to impact injuries or falls on hard surfaces.
- Tendon or ligament damage – Often results from sudden movements or excessive force.
- Crush injuries – Can occur in workplaces, public transport, or crowded venues.
- Amputations or severe nerve damage – In extreme cases, negligence can lead to life-altering injuries.
How to File a Public Liability Claim for a Limb Injury
If you’ve suffered an arm, hand, leg or foot injury in a public place, taking immediate action can strengthen your claim. Here’s what to do:
Step 1: Get Medical Attention Immediately
Even if the injury seems minor, get a medical assessment. Your records will be key evidence in your claim.
Step 2: Report the Incident
Notify the responsible party, whether it’s a store manager, local council or property owner. Request a copy of any incident report they create.
Step 3: Get Legal Advice
A public liability lawyer can review your case, collect more evidence and negotiate with insurers. They will submit the claim to the responsible party’s insurer with medical reports, expenses and supporting documents.
Most claims are settled out of court. Your lawyer will negotiate on your behalf to get you a fair settlement. Your lawyer may take the case to court if the insurer denies liability or offers you a bad settlement.
Step 4: Gather Evidence
- Take photos and videos of the accident scene or hazards that caused your injury.
- Get witness statements and their contact details.
- Keep copies of medical reports, X-rays and prescriptions.
- Keep receipts for medical expenses, transport costs and any lost wages due to your injury.
Step 5: Keep a Personal Injury Journal
Document your pain, treatment progress and how the injury affects your daily life. This will support claims for pain and suffering compensation.
What Public Liability Compensation Can You Receive for Limb Injuries?
The amount depends on the severity of your injury and how it affects your life. You may be entitled to:
- Medical expenses – Hospital visits, surgeries, physiotherapy and medications.
- Lost income – Wages lost due to recovery time.
- Pain and suffering – Emotional distress and reduced quality of life.
- Rehabilitation costs – Ongoing therapy or specialist treatments.
- Home modifications or care – If your injury requires accessibility adjustments or home help.
To win, gather strong evidence and get professional advice.
Should You File a Limb Injury Claim?
If your arm, hand, leg or foot was injured due to someone else’s negligence in a public place, you have a right to claim. A successful claim can cover medical bills, lost income and rehabilitation costs so you can focus on recovery.
However, public liability claims can be tricky to navigate, so get an experienced lawyer. By getting the right advice early on, you can strengthen your case and get fair compensation.
Act now! Call Wyatts’ public liability lawyers on 1800 773 880 to discuss your options and protect your rights.
