Claim compensation for being hit by falling items in a DIY store

Question: I was shopping in a DIY store when I bent down to pick up an item from a lower shelf. A hammer fell off a higher shelf and hit me in the head. I suffered a head injury and it took three weeks to recover. Can I claim compensation?

Answer: It sounds like you should be able to make a compensation claim – speak to Clearwater Solicitors for more information. Falling stock is one of the biggest causes of injury in DIY stores, and being struck by a falling hammer could cause serious and lasting injuries.

DIY Stores, such as Wickes, Jewson and B&Q, have a duty of care towards their customers and staff, just like every other retailer. This means they must ensure their businesses are safe places to shop and work in. As a result, they should ensure that shelves are stacked in a safe way, so that falling stock does not land on customers and lead to accidents.

If you claim compensation, it could be deemed that you were partially responsible for the incident, which will result in the size of your compensation claim being reduced. Otherwise, you will receive all the compensation you need to cover your pain, suffering, loss of amenity and financial losses. It is impossible to tell whether or not this will be the case without knowing the full details of the incident, so speak to personal injury solicitors as soon as possible. You should also ensure the accident is reported at the DIY store it occurred in and recorded in the accident book. You can ask for a copy of this accident book report. If possible, take photographs at the scene of the accident, or record the names and contact details of any independent witnesses.

Then, speak with the team at Clearwater Solicitors about making a personal injury claim against the DIY store. Just call us on 08000 430 430 or fill in our online enquiry form to find out how we could help you.