Street accidents can have devastating consequences, disrupting daily life and leading to physical, emotional, and financial challenges. Whether you tripped over a loose paving stone on Marlow High Street, slipped on an ungritted path near Higginson Park, or were injured by a roadside obstruction in Quoiting Square, you may be entitled to street accident compensation.
At Marley Solicitors, we understand the unique issues local residents face and are here to provide expert guidance throughout the claims process. In this blog, we cover everything you need to know about street accident claims in Marlow; including how to begin your case, what compensation you may receive, and why local legal support makes a real difference.
What qualifies as a street accident?
A street accident typically involves an injury that occurs in a public place due to hazards that should have been prevented. Common causes include:
- Damaged or uneven pavements
- Broken kerbstones or crumbling concrete
- Raised tree roots causing tripping hazards
- Spilled substances on walkways
- Missing manhole covers
- Inadequate or failed street lighting
- Poor winter maintenance (e.g. ice or snow not cleared)
In Marlow, such accidents can occur in popular pedestrian areas like West Street, Spittal Street, or near Marlow Train Station. If the location is publicly accessible, you may have a case.
Who is liable for a street accident in Marlow?
Responsibility usually falls to Buckinghamshire Council, which is tasked with maintaining pavements, roads, and pedestrian walkways throughout Marlow. However, if the accident occurs on privately owned land (such as near shops in Liston Court or car parks owned by businesses), the duty of care may lie with the landowner, occupier, or a maintenance company.
In every case, someone must be legally responsible for maintaining a safe environment for the public. If they fail in this duty and you are injured as a result, you could be eligible for compensation.
Types of injuries caused by street accidents
Even a seemingly minor fall can lead to significant injury. At Marley Solicitors, we have helped clients recover compensation for a wide range of injuries, including:
- Fractures and broken bones, particularly in the wrists, arms, hips, and ankles
- Head injuries, including concussions or long-term brain damage
- Spinal injuries, potentially leading to mobility issues
- Soft tissue injuries, such as sprains or torn ligaments
- Lacerations and bruises, which may require stitches or leave scarring
- Psychological trauma, such as anxiety or fear of going outdoors
Treatment for these injuries is often provided by local healthcare services such as Marlow Community Hospital, Buckinghamshire Healthcare NHS Trust, or GP practices like Marlow Medical Group.
What evidence is needed to make a successful claim?
For a compensation claim to be successful, it must be shown that:
- A hazard existed in a public place
- The responsible party (usually a council or private landowner) failed to address or warn of the danger
- This failure directly caused your injury
The more evidence you gather, the stronger your claim. Important evidence includes:
- Photographs of the hazard and surrounding area
- Medical records documenting your injuries
- Witness statements from anyone who saw the incident
- Incident reports filed with the council or property owner
- Proof of financial losses, such as travel expenses, lost wages, or medical bills
At Marley Solicitors, we will help you collect and compile all relevant evidence to build a compelling case on your behalf.
The process of making a claim
Understanding the legal process can reduce uncertainty and stress. Here’s what to expect when making a street accident claim in Marlow:
- Initial consultation – Contact Marley Solicitors for a free, no-obligation case assessment
- Case investigation – We gather evidence, contact witnesses, and assess liability
- Letter of claim – We notify the responsible party of your intention to claim
- Response from the defendant – They have a set time to accept or deny liability
- Negotiation – If liability is accepted, we negotiate a fair compensation settlement
- Court proceedings (if needed) – If liability is disputed or a fair settlement is not offered, we may take the case to court
The vast majority of cases are resolved without needing a court hearing, especially with strong legal representation.
How much compensation can I claim?
Compensation in street accident claims is designed to reflect:
- The severity of your injury
- The impact on your personal and professional life
- Any financial losses or expenses you have incurred
Typical amounts for street accident injuries:
- Minor injuries (sprains, bruises): £1,000 – £3,000
- Moderate injuries (fractures, dislocations): £3,000 – £12,000
- Serious injuries (long-term impairment): £12,000 – £50,000+
- Very severe injuries (e.g. brain damage, permanent disability): £50,000+
Additionally, you may be able to recover:
- Loss of earnings
- Travel and care expenses
- Treatment costs not covered by the NHS
- Compensation for psychological trauma
What is the time limit for making a claim?
In most cases, you have three years from the date of the accident to make a claim. This limit may be extended for:
- Children (until their 21st birthday)
- Adults lacking mental capacity
It is always best to start the process as soon as possible to ensure evidence is fresh and readily available.
What if I was partly at fault?
You can still make a claim even if you were partly responsible for the accident. For example, if you were looking at your phone while walking and tripped on an uneven pavement slab, the council might still share responsibility for failing to fix the hazard.
This is known as contributory negligence, and it may result in a reduced compensation amount rather than disqualification from claiming.
Our no win, no fee service
We offer a no win, no fee service for all public liability and personal injury claims. This means:
- No upfront costs
- No legal fees unless your claim succeeds
- Full transparency throughout
This approach allows you to pursue justice with zero financial risk.
Local knowledge makes a difference
Choosing a solicitor with local knowledge of Marlow ensures a more efficient and informed claim process. Our team is familiar with the layout, common accident hotspots, and the council’s typical maintenance patterns.
We understand where similar accidents have occurred before – from the riverside near The Compleat Angler to the busy walkways by Sainsbury’s – and this insight can make a significant difference when proving negligence.
Real-life example
One of our clients was injured after tripping on a sunken drain cover near the entrance to a local dental clinic in Marlow. The client fractured their wrist and missed several weeks of work. We successfully secured over £8,000 in compensation, covering medical expenses, lost earnings, and pain and suffering.
FAQs
Can I claim for a street accident if I was wearing inappropriate footwear?
Yes, you may still be able to claim. While footwear could be considered a contributing factor, the key question is whether the street surface was unreasonably dangerous. Responsibility lies with those maintaining public pathways.
How much compensation can I get for a back injury from a pavement fall in Marlow?
Back injury compensation varies widely depending on severity. Minor soft tissue injuries may attract £2,000 – £6,000, while more severe injuries involving permanent pain or surgery can lead to awards of £10,000 – £30,000 or more.
Speak to Marley Solicitors today
If you’ve suffered an injury in a public place in Marlow, don’t suffer in silence. Our expert solicitors are here to help you claim the compensation you deserve. We offer a free initial consultation and a no win, no fee service, so there’s nothing to lose by getting in touch.
Let Marley Solicitors help you recover physically, emotionally, and financially. Call us today to begin your claim and get the justice you are entitled to.
