Unsafe Trench Accident Leads to Settlement for Injured Woman

When a council had to dig a trench along a street in order to carry out road works, it created a temporary path for those using the street.

However, the path it built was unsafe and, in trying to negotiate it, one local resident fell into the trench and was injured.

The council denied liability for the woman's injuries and argued that the path was safe. However, a settlement was agreed after the injured woman made a legal claim.

Local authorities have a duty to keep public areas, streets and footpaths under their control safe. When an injury occurs because they have failed in this duty, it is standard practice to deny liability, but where there is good evidence that the accident was all or in part the fault of the relevant authority, compensation should be due.

The contents of this article are intended for general information purposes only and shall not be deemed to be, or constitute legal advice. We cannot accept responsibility for any loss as a result of acts or omissions taken in respect of this article.