Ioana's Story: Getting Compensation After a Supermarket Fall
Injury: Fractured wrist from wet floor
Compensation Received: €14,200
Ioana was doing her weekly shopping at a supermarket in Dublin when she slipped on a wet floor near the produce section. There was no warning sign, no rope around the area, nothing to alert customers that the floor was unsafe. She landed hard on her wrist trying to catch herself, and within hours knew something was seriously wrong. A trip to hospital confirmed a fractured wrist that would need weeks of recovery.
The injury meant Ioana couldn't work for several weeks. She's a graphic designer and needs both hands functioning properly. Beyond the immediate pain and lost income, she struggled with the psychological impact of the accident. Something as routine as shopping had suddenly caused real harm, and she felt angry that the supermarket hadn't taken basic safety steps.
When Ioana consulted a solicitor about her case, it became clear the supermarket had been negligent. They had a duty to keep their floors safe and to warn customers about hazards. No warning sign meant they'd failed in that duty, and her injury was a direct result. The solicitor gathered evidence, including statements from other shoppers who'd seen the wet floor, and medical reports documenting the fracture and her recovery. The supermarket's insurance company eventually agreed to settle, and Ioana received €14,200 in compensation.
What the Law Says
In Ireland, businesses have a legal duty to keep their premises safe for customers and visitors. If someone is injured because the business failed in this duty—by not fixing a hazard, not warning about danger, or not maintaining their property properly—the injured person can claim compensation. This is called a premises liability claim. You need to show that the business was negligent, that their negligence caused your injury, and that you've suffered genuine loss as a result (medical costs, lost wages, pain and suffering). The supermarket's insurance typically covers these claims.
Important: Time Limits
You have two years from the date of your injury to start legal proceedings for a personal injury claim in Ireland. This deadline is strict—if you miss it, you lose the right to claim compensation, with very few exceptions.
Don't delay. Contact a solicitor as soon as possible after your injury so they can gather evidence while details are fresh and witnesses can still be reached.