Claiming compensation for slipping on a wet floor in a furniture shop

Question: I slipped on wet floor in a furniture shop – can I claim compensation?

Answer: You may be able to make a compensation claim about the furniture shop; you should discuss the details of the accident with Clearwater Solicitors to find out if you can. Slips and trips are one of the most common causes of accidents in retailers, and as furniture shops have a duty of care towards their customers and employees, they must take all reasonably practicable steps to prevent these accidents from occurring. Some of the reasons for wet floors in furniture stores include poor cleaning and drying practices, rain or snow outside, and spilled drinks. Effective risk assessments and management systems should ensure these hazards do not lead to slip accidents.

If the shop or its employees are negligent towards this duty, then it can find itself liable in slipping accident compensation claims. You can claim compensation if you were injured in the accident, and if the accident occurred as a direct result of the store’s negligence. You can also claim compensation from a furniture store if you were partially responsible for the accident, but this contributory negligence will see the size of your claim fall. It is not good enough for a furniture store to leave warning signs stating that a floor is wet – if the floor poses a danger to customers, they should block of access to it or dry it until it is safe to walk on.

You may be offered gift vouchers or a small sum of money following the accident, but you should not accept this until you speak with Clearwater Solicitors, as the value of your claim could be more than this initial offer. Report the accident to the furniture store and request a copy of the accident book report, and photograph the area you fell in and the wet floor, if possible.

Get in touch with us today to start the process of making a claim. Just dial 08000 430 430 or fill in our online enquiry form to get started.