Injury claims on public footpaths on the rise

£3.5 million paid out by NI Government to accident victims

An increasing number of people are being injured in tripping accidents on badly maintained public roads and footpaths, according to figures released by Northern Ireland’s Department of Regional Development.

More than 1,800 people in the province made a tripping injury compensation claim in 2008, up from 1,000 in 2004/2005.  All of these claims related to accidents that took place on defective roads.  The release of figures has come about after a question was posed to the Northern Ireland Assembly by one of its members.  A lack of investment has been blamed for the rise in the number of people claiming compensation for these types of accident, although the Northern Ireland Assembly has denied cutbacks in maintenance budgets played a part.

Claiming compensation for Northern Ireland road accidents

If you have been injured in an accident that was the result of a poorly maintained public road or footpath then you might be entitled to claim personal injuries compensation from the government agency or local authority responsible for maintenance.  Camps Solicitors specialise in helping accident victims in England, Wales and Northern Ireland to make No-Win No-Fee compensation claims.

In accident cases like these, photographic evidence of any defects or potholes can be important, as a local authority or government agency will often seek to dispute the size and location of a defect.   A local authority or government agency may argue that a defect was not large enough to cause an accident, or that it was very visible and should have been avoided.  At Camps Solicitors our legal experts will build a strong case relying on evidence from a variety of sources including photographic evidence and your own testimony.

For more advice on making claims for tripping or slipping accidents caused by defects in the road or on the pavement call Camps Solicitors on 0800 092 8586.  Our solicitors and legal staff can also help with the claims of motorists whose cars have been damaged by poor road conditions, for example potholes.  To find out more call now.