Settlement Agreed in Foot Injury Sustained in Department Store

Associate Katrina Lagan has recently negotiated settlement of a compensation claim for Mrs N.

In April 2024, Mrs N was shopping in a local department store, when she was injured by an unmarked display frame jutting out into the aisle of the shop. The object caused her to lose her balance and resulted in a sharp pain in her right foot as she fell forward. Following the incident, Mrs N had to walk around the store to locate a staff member to assist her.

As a result of the accident, Mrs N attended the local Minor Injuries Unit and was diagnosed with a broken metatarsal on her right foot.  She was discharged home with a  walking boot which she had to wear for eight weeks.  Follow up treatment was provided at the local Fracture Clinic.  Mrs N developed plantar fasciitis which impacted her daily life and driving ability.

The store’s failure to provide a safe shopping environment by adequately signposting the area, and their subsequent failure to provide satisfactory first aid and care, formed the basis of this claim for negligence and breach of statutory duty.

Instructions were received for this claim in the weeks following the incident. Pre-action correspondence was dispatched and medical records were obtained, which allowed for the commission of an expert report in respect of Mrs N’s injuries.

Following service of the medical evidence, the insurance company for the department store initiated settlement negotiations. The case settled in summer 2025 and Mrs N was delighted with the outcome.

Worthingtons Solicitors have extensive experience in handling personal injury cases. If you have had an accident that wasn’t your fault and which has resulted in personal injury in the last 3 years, please contact Katrina Lagan at our Belfast office on 028 9043 4015, or email [email protected] for advice.