Claiming compensation for slipping on a wet floor in a health and beauty store

Question: I slipped on a wet floor in a health and beauty store, injuring my ankle. Can I make a compensation claim?

Answer: You should be able to make a compensation claim if you slipped on a wet floor in a health and beauty store, a pharmacist, a health food retailer or any other retail premises. Slippery floors present one of the largest safety risks in the retail sector, so Boots, The Perfume Shop, Holland & Barrett, The Body Shop, Superdrug and all other health and beauty stores should be aware of this risk and take steps to prevent it from causing injuries.

Beauty shops and other companies have a duty of care towards their customers and employees, which means they must take all reasonably practicable steps to prevent accidents from occurring on their property. This will involve ensuring wet floors are dried promptly and that access to areas with wet flooring is prevented.

Water and other liquids reduces friction on floors, so when people put their foot down to walk across them, it can slip from underneath them and cause them to fall over. The injuries people can sustain can be serious – while ankle injuries are common, some people suffer spinal injuries, head injuries and serious health problems with lasting effects.

You should speak to staff at the health and beauty store about your accident and ensure they record it in the accident book. Then ask for a copy of this accident book report to support your claim. If possible, take photographs of the slippery floor you fell on and take down the names and contact information of anyone who witnessed the accident. Visit a doctor to have your injuries assessed and recorded in your medical records, even if you received treatment at the scene.

Then speak to Clearwater Solicitors about making a compensation claim for slipping in a health and beauty store. We can give you the expert representation you need, so call us on 08000 430 430 or fill in our online enquiry form to get started.