If you’ve been injured on a pavement, it can be stressful and confusing to know what to do next. Local councils have a legal duty to keep pavements safe, and if their negligence caused your accident, you may be entitled to compensation. Claim Today and DS BAL can guide you through every step — from collecting evidence to making a strong, high-value claim. Read on to discover how to protect your rights and maximise your compensation with expert support you can trust.
Injured on a pavement? Learn how to claim compensation from local councils, what evidence you need, and how Claim Today can help you win your public liability claim.
Being injured on a pavement is one of those moments that catches you completely off guard. One second you’re walking home from work, carrying shopping, or pushing the pram , and the next you’re on the ground, embarrassed, hurting, and unsure who’s responsible.
For many people, the shock turns into frustration when they realise the accident could have been avoided if the pavement was properly maintained. Uneven slabs, potholes, loose tiles, and damaged kerbs are all hazards the council is legally responsible for fixing.
This guide explains exactly what to do if you’ve been injured on a pavement and want to make a council compensation claim , in a simple, clear, and human way.
What Does “Injured on a Pavement” Actually Mean?
When we say injured on a pavement, we’re talking about any accident caused by:
- Broken or uneven paving slabs
- Raised kerbs
- Potholes on pavements
- Loose bricks or tiles
- Missing drainage covers
- Tree roots lifting the walkway
- Ice or slippery surfaces not managed properly
These accidents often fall under public liability, where the council owes a duty of care to anyone using the pavement.
For more on public liability basics, see our internal article:
Proving Negligence in Public Liability Claims: What You Need to Know.
Can You Claim Compensation from the Council?
Yes — if council negligence caused your injury.
Councils must:
- Inspect pavements regularly
- Repair dangerous defects
- Respond to public reports
- Keep walkways reasonably safe
If they fail to do this, and you were injured on a pavement, you may be entitled to claim.
For a clearer picture of what counts as evidence, see our article:
Public Liability Evidence Checklist You Need Today.
What To Do If You Were Injured on a Pavement
1. Record the defect
Take clear photos showing:
- The height/depth of the defect
- The exact location
- Any surrounding hazards
Photos with a ruler or everyday objects help show scale.
2. Report the issue to the council
This creates an official record of the hazard and how long it remained unfixed.
For official guidance to claim compensation if you’re injured on a road or pavement, see GOV.UK: Claim compensation for injuries caused by roads or pavements.
3. Get medical attention
Medical records are essential for proving your injury and treatment.
4. Collect witness details
Anyone who saw your fall or knew about the hazard beforehand can support your claim.
5. Contact Claim Today
We handle council claims daily and understand exactly how to build strong, well-documented cases , especially for high-value injuries.
How to Prove the Council Was Negligent
To win a council claim, you must prove:
- There was a defect (photos + measurements)
- The council knew or should have known about it (inspection reports, complaints)
- They failed to act reasonably (delayed repairs, ignored warnings)
- You were injured because of that defect
Our team can request inspection records, maintenance logs, and council reports to strengthen the case.
Injuries You Can Claim For
If you were injured on a pavement, typical injuries include:
- Fractures (wrist, ankle, hip)
- Torn ligaments
- Back or spinal pain
- Head injuries
- Soft tissue damage
- Long-term mobility problems
High-value cases often involve surgery, long recovery periods, or permanent mobility issues.
How Much Compensation Can You Claim?
Every claim is different, but factors include:
- Severity of injuries
- Loss of earnings
- Long-term disability
- Care and rehabilitation
- Psychological impact
Our specialists give estimates based on medical reports and legal guidelines.
Why You Should Contact Claim Today
- No win, no fee
- Fast evidence collection
- Experience with council claims
- High success rate
- We handle the process while you recover
If you were injured on a pavement, getting early legal advice gives you the strongest possible case.
FAQs
What should I do first if I was injured on a pavement?
Take photos of the defect, seek medical help, and report the hazard to the council. Then contact Claim Today for advice.
How long do I have to make a pavement injury claim?
You usually have three years from the date of the accident.
Do I need proof the council knew about the defect?
Not always — you must prove they should have known through inspections or the condition of the pavement.
Can I claim if no one witnessed the accident?
Yes. Photos, medical records, and council reports can still make your claim strong.
What compensation can I expect if I was injured on a pavement?
It depends on injury severity, lost income, treatment needs, and long-term effects.
Are pavement claims against local councils difficult?
They can be, because councils often deny liability. Having a specialist solicitor increases your chance of winning.
