Last Updated on May 27, 2025 by tanya

How to Make A Park Injury Claim

 

Compensation After An Accident Which Wasn’t Your Fault

If a park has been poorly maintained or contains hazards which leads to an injury, you should be aware of how to make a park injury claim for compensation. Public parks offer a peaceful escape from urban life, providing places for family time, relaxation or exercise.

But the party who is responsible for maintaining the space has a legal duty to make sure the area is reasonably safe for visitors. If there is a failure in the duty of care and you are injured as a result, you may be entitled to file a personal injury claim.

It is important to know that compensation is based on the severity of your injury and how it has affected your life. Compensation generally covers pain and suffering, as well as financial losses, such as medical costs and lost income.

If you have been injured in a public park which was not your fault, you may want to find out more about claiming compensation. First Personal Injury can help you and we work with highly experienced lawyers who operate on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis.

 

How Park Accidents Can Happen

If you were injured due to the negligence of a local authority, council, or private landowner, you may be able to pursue a personal injury claim. Common causes of accidents in public parks include:

 

• Uneven or broken pavements
• Poorly maintained play equipment
• Slippery surfaces or unmarked hazards
• Tree branches or debris obstructing pathways
• Faulty benches or park furniture

 

Can You Claim Compensation for a Park Injury?

If you were injured due to someone else’s negligence, you may be eligible to claim compensation for injury in a public park. To succeed, you must be able to prove:

 

The party responsible owed you a duty of care, such as the council or private owner.

That duty of care was breached, due to negligence or failure to maintain safety standards.

You suffered an injury as a direct result of that breach.

 

Common Injuries in Public Parks

Some of the most reported injuries which happen in parks include:

 

• Sprains and fractures from tripping or falling
• Cuts and bruises from damaged equipment
• Head or back injuries from falling objects (like branches)
• Dog bites or animal attacks (where owners are liable)

 

Each injury type may potentially lead to a claim if there is evidence of negligence.

 

How to File a Personal Injury Claim

If you have been involved in an accident in a public park or green space and you want to claim compensation, follow these steps:

 

Seek Medical Attention Immediately

Get medical treatment as soon as possible, even if your injuries seem minor. Your health is always your top priority. Additionally, a formal medical report will support your claim and establish a timeline of the incident.

 

Gather Evidence at the Scene

Obtain as much evidence as possible, which may include (if possible):

• Taking clear photographs of the accident location, hazard, and any injuries.
• Record the time, date, and exact location.
• Collect names and contact details of any witnesses.

 

Report the Incident

If the park is operated by a local council, report the accident directly to them as soon as possible. If it’s privately owned, such as by a housing association or private estate, contact the landowner or managing authority.

Make sure you request a copy of the accident report.

 

What Can You Claim For?

If your claim is successful, you may receive compensation for:

 

General damages – for pain, suffering, and loss of amenity (quality of life).

 

Special damages – this typically covers financial losses such as:

 

• • Medical expenses
  • Travel costs
  • Loss of earnings
  • Ongoing care needs

 

Your solicitor will ensure that you claim for all eligible costs linked to your injury and will help estimate the potential value of your claim

 

Time Limits for Making a Claim

There is a time limit to file a claim and you usually have three years from the date of the accident to make a personal injury claim. It’s advisable to start your claim as early as possible while the evidence is still fresh.

Exceptions include:

 

• Children under 18 – their 3-year time limit starts on their 18th birthday.
• Lack of mental capacity – the limit may be extended.

 

Tips to Strengthen Your Personal Injury Claim

• Keep a diary of how your injury has impacted your daily life.
• Retain all receipts and records of expenses.
• Do not accept any settlement offers without legal advice.

 

Who Is Responsible for Park Accidents?

Responsibility depends on who manages the park. This may include:

 

• A local authority or council (public parks)
• A housing association
• A private landowner or trust
• A management company for private estates

 

The responsible party must have public liability insurance, which typically covers compensation pay-outs.

 

Do You Need a Solicitor to Claim Compensation?

While you can attempt a claim without legal representation, it’s not recommended. Personal injury law can be complex and without legal help, you may:

 

• Receive a lower compensation amount
• Miss key legal deadlines
• Struggle to prove negligence

 

An experienced personal injury lawyer improves your chances of success and ensures you receive the full compensation you’re entitled to. With the right legal support, you can focus on your recovery while your lawyer handles the legal complexities.

 

Need help now?

To discuss your case in confidence, contact our team at First Personal Injury. We specialise in helping individuals affected by workplace negligence.

We work with expert lawyers who operate on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis, ensuring you get the support you need without financial risk. Call us at 0333 3582345 or contact us online for a free, no-obligation consultation.