You might not think much of a quick slip or trip until it actually happens to you. One moment you’re on your feet, the next you’re sore, shaken, and wondering how something so simple could cause so much pain. Slips and trips are one of the most common reasons people get injured. And it often often leads to time off work, medical appointments, and unwanted stress
At My Personal Injury Claim, we help our clients better understand their situation and claim the compensation they are entitled to.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the common causes of slips and trips, how to stay safe, and what to do and how to make a claim if you’ve been injured through no fault of your own.
Why this matters in Northern Ireland
According to the Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland (HSENI), slips and trips are the single biggest cause of major injuries at work, resulting in thousands of incidents every year. They also happen frequently in public spaces, car parks, hospitals, and shops, often because simple safety measures weren’t taken.
These accidents can cause:
- Broken bones and fractures
- Back, shoulder, or neck injuries
- Head trauma or concussion
- Long-term mobility problems
Unfortunately, many people blame themselves — when in reality, the fault often lies with unsafe conditions or poor maintenance. Knowing what to look out for can help prevent future accidents and protect your rights if you’ve already been injured.
Common Causes of Slips and Trips
Here are the main factors that lead to these types of accidents across Belfast and Northern Ireland:
1. Wet or slippery surfaces
Water, oil, or cleaning products left on floors can create invisible hazards. Rainwater near entrances or freshly mopped areas without warning signs is particularly dangerous.
2. Uneven or damaged flooring
Loose tiles, cracked pavements, or uneven steps often cause trips, especially when the change in level isn’t clearly marked.
3. Clutter and obstructions
Trailing cables, boxes, or debris in walkways can cause people to fall. Keeping corridors and public paths clear is a basic safety requirement for all property owners and employers.
4. Poor lighting
Inadequate lighting can make it hard to see potential hazards, especially on staircases, in car parks, or outdoor walkways.
5. Footwear issues
Shoes with smooth soles, high heels, or worn treads can reduce traction and increase the risk of slipping, particularly on polished or wet floors.
6. Weather conditions
Icy or snowy conditions during winter are a frequent cause of accidents outdoors. NI Direct recommends gritting footpaths, wearing suitable footwear, and walking carefully in bad weather.
7. Poor maintenance or cleaning
Floors cleaned at busy times or damaged surfaces left unrepaired increase the risk of injury. Businesses and councils have a duty to maintain safe conditions for employees and the public.
How to stay safe: simple prevention tips
Even though slips and trips are common, most can be prevented with a few simple precautions. Whether you’re at home, at work, or out in public, small changes can make a big difference in keeping yourself and others safe. Here’s how to reduce your risk day to day.
At home
- Fix loose carpets, tiles, or uneven flooring.
- Keep stairs and hallways clutter-free.
- Use bright lighting and non-slip mats in bathrooms and kitchens.
At work
- Report hazards such as spills or uneven floors right away.
- Employers should conduct regular risk assessments and act quickly on issues found.
- Wear non-slip shoes if your job involves walking on smooth or wet floors.
In public
- Watch your step on pavements, especially after rain or frost.
- Use handrails where possible.
- Avoid distractions such as looking at your phone when walking through busy or uneven areas.
Even with the best precautions, accidents can still happen, and that’s when it’s important to know your rights.
What to do if you’ve been injured
If you suffer a slip, trip or fall, taking the right steps immediately can make all the difference:
1. Report the accident
Tell the manager, property owner, or employer and ask for it to be recorded in an accident book or report.
2. Seek medical attention
Even if the injury seems minor, get checked by a doctor. Some injuries, such as soft-tissue damage, may worsen later.
3. Gather evidence
Take photos of the area, the hazard, and your injuries. Keep your footwear and clothing, and get contact details for any witnesses.
4. Keep all records
Save medical reports, prescriptions, and receipts for any expenses related to your injury.
5. Get legal advice early
If unsafe conditions caused your injury, you may have the right to claim compensation. There are time limits for personal injury claims in Northern Ireland, so it’s best to get advice as soon as possible.
Understanding your rights in Northern Ireland
Under the Health and Safety at Work (Northern Ireland) Order 1978, employers, councils, and businesses have a legal duty to ensure premises are safe. That includes maintaining floors, cleaning up spills, and providing proper lighting and signage.
If they fail to meet those responsibilities and you’re injured as a result, you could be entitled to claim compensation.
Your compensation may cover:
- Pain, suffering and loss of quality of life
- Medical treatment and rehabilitation
- Lost income (past and future)
- Travel and care expenses
In summary
Slips and trips might seem like small accidents, but they can lead to serious injuries and long-term problems. Many happen because someone failed to take reasonable care. You don’t have to face that alone.
At My Personal Injury Claim, we’re here to make things right. Our experienced team will listen, guide you through your options, and handle everything on your behalf, making sure you receive the compensation and support you’re entitled to.
Aside from Slips and Trips, we also help clients make a claim for work accidents, road accidents, whiplash, medical and dental negligence.
Not sure what to do after a slip or trip? Get in touch with us. We’ll point you in the right direction.
