Public Liability Compensation – Case Study
What Happened
A schoolgirl from Dudley, West Midlands, sustained an injury when she tripped over uneven paving outside her home. The incident resulted in a fractured forearm, requiring a plaster cast for six weeks and caused arm pain lasting over 12 months.
Waldrons Solicitors’ lawyer, Katie Hinton, submitted a public liability claim against the local authority, arguing that they had failed to maintain the highway as per their statutory duty. The claim highlighted that the council’s inadequate inspection and maintenance system allowed the defect to remain unresolved, causing the accident.
Following an initial delay in response, the local authority accepted liability for the incident.
How Waldrons Solicitors Helped Secure Compensation
Katie Hinton, a specialist Litigation Executive, arranged for J to be examined by an Orthopaedic Surgeon. The expert confirmed that J had sustained a fractured forearm, which impacted her daily life, including her ability to participate in PE and dance classes at school.
Additionally, J experienced anxiety and loss of confidence following the accident, particularly regarding outdoor activities. Upon expert recommendation, Katie arranged for a Psychologist assessment, which concluded that J had suffered a mild anxiety reaction, which fortunately resolved over time.
Following negotiations, damages of £7,000 were agreed with the Defendant. The case proceeded to an Infant Approval Hearing, where Katie personally met with and represented the family.
The Court ordered that the damages be paid into Court funds, accruing interest until J reaches 18 years of age, at which point she can claim her full compensation plus interest.
Client Satisfaction & Positive Outcome
J’s family were extremely happy with the outcome, knowing that she had been fairly compensated for her injuries and distress. J’s mother said that she was very grateful for Katie’s advice and that Katie had been ‘brilliant’!
Katie Hinton, who handled the case, commented:
“Local authorities have a duty of care to maintain safe public spaces. This case highlights the importance of holding them accountable when negligence leads to injury. I am pleased to have secured a fair settlement for J.”
Expert Legal Support for Public Liability Claims
If you or a loved one has suffered an injury due to poorly maintained public spaces, Waldrons Solicitors can help. Our Personal Injury experts offer a free, no-obligation consultation to assess your case. Contact us for expert legal advice and to discuss your potential claim.
About Katie Hinton
Click here to learn more about Katie Hinton, a dedicated Litigation Executive at Waldrons Solicitors, with extensive experience in securing compensation for public liability and personal injury claims.
