Last Updated on March 24, 2025 by tanya

Injury Claims For Falling Through Fragile Surfaces

 

How To File For Compensation

Falling through a roof or weak ceiling can lead to injury claims for falling through fragile surfaces. These types of incidents may happen in the workplace if the relevant safety measures are not in place. Or alternatively such a fall could be the fault of a negligent landlord.

Generally fragile surfaces are not designed to support weight and can collapse under pressure. Unfortunately, a fall from height can have devastating consequences. Brain and spinal injuries, as well as broken bones can happen.

 

If you have suffered from such a fall through no fault of your own, you may be eligible to file a claim for compensation and First Personal Injury can help as we partner with highly experienced lawyers who can assess your case and guide you accordingly.

 

What Counts as a Fragile Surface?

 

There are different types of fragile surfaces which could present as a hazard for serious falls. These include:

 

• Roofs made of old tiles, corrugated metal, or asbestos sheeting
• Skylights, especially old or damaged ones
• Plastic roofing panels
• Wooden flooring or beams weakened by rot
• Ceilings made of plasterboard
• Temporary or makeshift structures

 

Common Injuries from Falling Through Fragile Surfaces

 

The type of injuries you can sustain from a fall depends on several factors. This may include how high you fell from, what you landed on, and how you landed. Here are some of the most common injuries:

 

Broken Bones

 

When you crash through a roof or weak surface, your body is going to take a serious hit. Broken arms, wrists, ribs, and even legs are common, especially if you try to break your fall. A fall from height often means multiple fractures, which can take months to heal properly.

 

Head Injuries and Concussions

 

If you hit your head, you could suffer a concussion or even a traumatic brain injury (TBI). These can range from mild dizziness and confusion to more severe long-term effects like memory loss or cognitive difficulties.

 

Spinal Injuries

 

One of the worst outcomes of a fall is damaging your spine. Landing the wrong way can cause fractures, slipped discs, or even paralysis. Spinal injuries are often life-changing and require extensive rehabilitation.

 

 Lacerations and Puncture Wounds

 

Falling through a fragile surface often means crashing through glass, metal, or wood. Such a fall can cause deep cuts, puncture wounds, and nasty infections if not treated properly.

 

Internal Injuries

 

Not all injuries are visible. Falling from a height can cause internal bleeding, organ damage, and other serious complications that might not be immediately obvious. Internal injuries may be serious and need to be diagnosed quickly.

Sprains, Strains, and Soft Tissue Damage

 

You may suffer from torn ligaments, muscle strains, or severe bruising after a fall. These injuries might not seem as serious, but can be painful and take a long time to heal.

 

When Can You Make a Personal Injury Claim

 

If you’ve fallen through a fragile surface and suffered an injury, you may be entitled to file a claim if someone else was responsible for your fall. You will also have to show a direct link between the fall and your injuries

If you were working at the time of the fall, it is important to know that employers are required to follow strict health and safety laws. Employer negligence can include:  not providing necessary safety equipment (eg safety harnesses), failing to assess risks, or not training workers properly, among other safety factors.

However, if you were on someone else’s property, such as in a shop, warehouse, or rental property and fell through a weak surface, the property owner may have been negligent. Property owners are also required to ensure their premises are reasonably safe for visitors.

There should also be clear signs warning you not to step on a fragile surface.

 

‘No Win, No Fee’

 

Personal injury claims should be filed within three years from the date of the accident. Compensation typically covers medical expenses, lost earnings and pain and suffering.

Your next essential step is to consult with a personal injury lawyer who has experience in injuries at work. At First Personal Injury, we partner with a team of lawyers who work on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis and who will assess your case.

 

Our expert team at First Personal Injury will guide you through the claims process to help you secure the compensation you deserve. Call us now at 0333 358 2345 or complete our online contact form for a free, no-obligation consultation.