What to Do After a Slip or Fall

Your Health Comes First

If you have slipped or fallen, your immediate priority is your health. It is completely understandable to feel shaken, embarrassed, or unsure what to do next. But please do not delay medical attention. Some injuries, such as soft tissue damage, concussion, or hairline fractures, may not be obvious straight away. Call 999 if the injury is serious, such as a suspected broken bone, head injury, or heavy bleeding. For less urgent concerns, contact NHS 111, visit an A&E department, or go to a minor injuries unit. If you can, keep a record of every appointment, treatment, and prescription. Also note down how you felt each day, including pain, dizziness, or difficulty moving. This diary can be surprisingly helpful later.

Collect Evidence While the Details Are Fresh

As soon as you are able, write down what happened. Include the date, time, location, and exactly how you fell. Memory fades quickly, so do this while it is clear in your mind. If you can return to the scene safely, take photographs of the hazard. This might be a wet floor with no warning sign, an uneven paving slab, a loose carpet, or poor lighting. Take photos of your injuries too, from different angles, and update them as bruises or swelling appear. Ask anyone who saw what happened for their name and contact details. Keep the shoes and clothing you were wearing, as they may be relevant. If there was an incident report, ask for a copy. Keep all receipts for travel to medical appointments, over-the-counter medicines, and any paid help around the home.

• Photographs of the hazard and your injuries
• Names and contact details of witnesses
• A copy of any accident report or accident book entry
• Medical records, appointment letters, and prescription receipts
• Receipts for travel, medication, or home help

Report the Incident Clearly

Tell someone in authority as soon as possible. If you fell in a shop, restaurant, or other public building, ask to speak to the manager. Make sure the incident is recorded in their accident book, and ask for a copy of that entry. If you fell on a public pavement or road, report it to your local council's highways department. If you fell at work, report it to your employer and ensure it is logged. For small business owners, if someone slips or falls on your premises, you should also record it in your accident book. Check whether the incident is reportable under RIDDOR (the Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations). This is usually required if the person is taken to hospital for more than 24 hours, or if they are off work for more than seven days.

Understanding Liability Without the Jargon

Liability simply means who is legally responsible. For slips and falls, the main law is the Occupiers' Liability Act 1957. This says that the person or business occupying a premises must take reasonable care to keep visitors safe. That does not mean every accident leads to a claim. Sometimes a hazard is unavoidable, or the injured person was not paying attention. But if the hazard was known about and not fixed, or if there were no warning signs, there may be a case. You do not need to work out who is at fault right now. Just focus on gathering facts. Avoid accepting blame, and do not sign anything from an insurer without getting advice first. Insurers may ask for a statement; you are entitled to say you need time to think.

When to Speak to a Solicitor

Personal injury claims in the UK generally have a three-year time limit from the date of the accident. That sounds like a long time, but it passes quickly. It is sensible to get advice early, even if you are unsure whether you have a claim. A specialist personal injury solicitor can tell you whether you have a case and handle the legal process for you. Most offer a free initial consultation, and many work on a no win, no fee basis. You do not need to commit to anything straight away. A good solicitor will explain things clearly and without pressure. If you are a small business owner facing a claim, you should also seek legal advice promptly. Your insurer may appoint a solicitor, but you are entitled to your own representation too.

If You're a Small Business Owner

If someone slips or falls on your premises, act with care and consistency. Provide first aid and call for medical help if needed. Record the incident in your accident book, and preserve any CCTV footage before it is overwritten. Do not admit liability or promise compensation, even if you feel sorry for the person. Notify your insurer promptly, as your policy may require this within a certain timeframe. Check whether the incident is reportable under RIDDOR. Keep your own notes of what happened and what you did. Then, if a claim is made, seek legal advice. Being proactive and organised will help protect your business and ensure you are treated fairly.