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Misplaced Drain Covers and Manhole Covers
Last Updated on May 13, 2025 by tanya
Misplaced Drain Covers and Manhole Covers
Injuries, Legal Help and Compensation
When walking through a city street or quiet residential road, misplaced drain covers, and manhole covers can be a significant risk for injury. Yet few of us give a second thought to the pavement or path below our feet. However, if a cover is misplaced or even missing, it may pose a serious hazard with a potential for a range of injuries. Some of which may disrupt your life in an instant.
If you or a loved one has been injured in this way due to someone else’s negligence, it’s advisable to chat to a personal injury lawyer about a potential claim for compensation.
Jefferies Claims may be able to help as we partner with highly experienced lawyers who operate on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis and who can assess your case as to whether it is valid.
Why Misplaced Drain Covers Are A Hazard
Drain covers and manhole covers a allow access to sewer systems and infrastructure beneath roads and pavements. But they are also meant to protect the public from open utility spaces. When they are dislodged, loose, or improperly fitted, they become hazardous traps for an unsuspecting passer-by.
These risks may be underestimated until someone is seriously hurt. Whether it’s due to wear and tear, poor maintenance by local councils, or third-party construction work, a faulty cover can rapidly become a public safety issue.
Common Injuries Caused by Faulty Manhole Covers
Slips, Trips, and Falls
This is the most typical injury when it comes to faulty manhole covers. If a manhole cover or drain cover is tilted or sunken below the road surface, pedestrians can easily trip, leading to:
- Sprained ankles
- Broken wrists or arms
- Facial injuries from falling forward
- Hip fractures in older adults
Entrapment
A person’s leg can get caught in an open or partially covered manhole. This may cause:
- Severe lacerations
- Ligament and tendon damage
- Compound fractures
- Long-term nerve injuries
Cycling Accidents
Cyclists are particularly vulnerable when it comes to faulty drain or manhole manholes. Hitting a dislodged cover or an uneven surface can cause loss of balance and a nasty crash. Injuries may include :
- Head trauma (even with helmets)
- Broken collarbones
- Road rash and abrasions
- Back and spinal injuries
Can You Make a Personal Injury Claim?
You may be entitled to claim compensation if you’ve been harmed which can be directly linked to a misplaced or defective drain or manhole cover. However, key criteria must be met which includes:
Duty of Care
To have a valid claim, you need to prove that a third party failed in their duty of care. Typically, this would be a local authority, a utility company or contractor.
Time Limit for Making a Claim
In most cases, you must make your claim within three years from the date of the accident. However, exceptions apply, particularly children under 18 or those lacking mental capacity.
Proving Negligence
You would have to be able to show that the responsible party:
- Was aware, or should have been aware, of the hazard
- Failed to repair or warn about the danger
- That the injury occurred as a direct result
You’ll also need to gather evidence to strengthen your claim, e.g.:
- Photographs of the defect
- Witness statements
- Medical reports
What Compensation Can You Claim?
A successful personal injury claim may typically cover:
- Medical expenses
- Loss of income (due to time off work)
- Pain and suffering
- Future care costs (for long-term injuries)
- Travel and legal expenses
The amount depends on the severity and impact of the injury.
Contact Us For A Free, No-Obligation Consultation
An essential step is to consult with a personal injury lawyer as claims for compensation and identifying the liable party can be complex. At First Personal Injury, we work 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.