Walking is an everyday activity, yet pedestrians are among the most vulnerable road users. In Burford, a town known for its charming streets and bustling high street, the risk of walking accidents is unfortunately very real. Whether caused by uneven pavements, negligent drivers, or poorly maintained public pathways, these accidents can result in serious injuries. If you have been injured in a walking accident that was not your fault, you may be entitled to claim compensation.
At Marley Solicitors, we help victims in Burford pursue walking accident compensation through a trusted, straightforward legal process. This guide will help you understand your rights, how to make a claim, and what to expect.
What is a walking accident?
A walking accident typically involves a pedestrian who is injured while walking in a public or private space due to the negligence of another party. Common causes of walking accidents include:
- Uneven or broken pavements
- Slips and trips on wet or icy surfaces
- Obstructions or hazards left on walkways
- Collisions with vehicles or cyclists
- Construction or maintenance work with inadequate signage
In Burford, such hazards can be found in both rural footpaths and urban areas like High Street, often exacerbated by poor lighting or insufficient maintenance.
Who is responsible for walking accident injuries?
Responsibility will depend on the circumstances of the accident. Commonly liable parties include:
- Local authorities, such as West Oxfordshire District Council, if the pavement or public path was poorly maintained
- Private property owners, including shops, restaurants, and businesses with unsafe premises
- Motorists or cyclists, if a pedestrian was hit due to their negligence
- Construction firms, if an area under construction caused injury due to lack of warnings or barriers
Identifying the responsible party is key to a successful claim. Marley Solicitors will investigate the circumstances, obtain evidence, and determine liability.
What injuries can result from walking accidents?
Injuries from walking accidents can range from minor to life-altering. Common injuries include:
- Fractures and broken bones
- Sprains, ligament damage, and soft tissue injuries
- Head injuries, including concussions
- Facial injuries and dental damage
- Spinal injuries or trauma
Treatment may involve hospital visits, surgery, rehabilitation, and time off work. Local facilities such as Witney Community Hospital and The Burford Surgery often play a key role in treating accident-related injuries. Documentation from these medical institutions is important for building your case.
Can I claim walking accident compensation in Burford?
Yes. If your walking accident occurred due to someone else’s negligence, you have the right to seek compensation. You can typically claim for:
- Pain and suffering
- Medical expenses (including private treatments or physiotherapy)
- Loss of earnings (past and future)
- Travel costs related to your injury
- Adaptations to your home or mobility support
To bring a claim, you must start within three years of the accident date, though exceptions may apply for minors or those lacking mental capacity.
What do I need to support my claim?
Evidence is crucial to a walking accident claim. At Marley Solicitors, we recommend collecting the following:
- Photographs of the accident scene and hazard
- Medical records and diagnosis from local clinics like Burford Dental Practice or The Cotswold Medical Practice
- Witness statements
- CCTV footage, if available
- A copy of the accident report, if made to a business or local council
Our team can help gather evidence and submit any Freedom of Information requests needed to support your case.
How much compensation can I receive?
The amount of compensation depends on the severity of your injuries and the impact on your daily life. Minor injuries may result in claims worth a few thousand pounds, while serious or long-term injuries can exceed £100,000. General damages for pain and suffering are awarded using Judicial College Guidelines, and special damages cover financial losses and future expenses.
As each case is unique, we offer a free consultation to assess your situation and provide an estimate tailored to your claim.
How Marley Solicitors helps walking accident victims in Burford
At Marley Solicitors, we have a proven track record of helping clients across Oxfordshire recover the compensation they deserve. Our personal injury team handles every case with sensitivity, diligence, and legal precision.
We offer a no win, no fee service, which means you pay nothing unless we win your case. This allows you to pursue justice without financial risk. From our first meeting, we aim to make the process stress-free and transparent.
What if the council or business denies fault?
It’s not uncommon for local councils or businesses to deny responsibility. That’s why legal representation is vital. We work with independent experts to inspect pavements or properties, provide medical assessments, and build a strong case on your behalf. Whether negotiating a settlement or taking the matter to court, we will fight for a fair outcome.
Why choose a local solicitor in Burford?
Local knowledge can significantly strengthen your case. At Marley Solicitors, we understand Burford’s roads, pathways, and businesses. We have experience dealing with West Oxfordshire District Council and nearby facilities like the Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust. This allows us to act quickly, efficiently, and with insight tailored to your area.
Frequently asked questions
Can I claim for a walking accident in Burford if it happened outside a shop?
Yes. If the shop owner or manager failed to maintain safe walkways or didn’t clean up a hazard, you could be entitled to compensation. We will help determine if the shop breached its duty of care.
How much compensation can I get for a broken ankle from a walking accident?
Compensation for a broken ankle can range from £10,000 to over £40,000 depending on the severity, recovery time, and impact on your lifestyle and work. Contact us for a free case review to understand what you may be entitled to.
Contact Marley Solicitors for walking accident advice in Burford
If you’ve suffered a walking accident in Burford, do not delay seeking legal advice. The earlier you act, the better the chances of securing evidence and receiving compensation.
Contact Marley Solicitors today for a free consultation. Our expert personal injury solicitors are ready to guide you every step of the way, with clear advice, compassionate support, and a no win, no fee service to give you peace of mind.
