Petrol Station Accident Claims Solicitors

A petrol station accident claim is a type of public liability claim arising when someone is injured due to unsafe conditions at a service station, fuel forecourt, or associated retail area.

Under the Occupiers’ Liability Act 1957 operators and occupiers have a legal duty to ensure visitors are reasonably safe. Where that duty is breached and injury occurs, compensation may be payable.

Common Petrol Station Accidents

Accidents at petrol stations often arise from poor maintenance or inadequate safety procedures.

Some of the most common scenarios include:

Slips on Petrol or Oil

Petrol, diesel, and oil create highly slippery surfaces. Where spills are not cleaned promptly or adequately signposted, liability may arise.

Forecourt Vehicle Accidents

Poor traffic management, unclear markings, or driver negligence can lead to collisions involving pedestrians.

Trips and Falls

Damaged kerbs, uneven surfaces, loose covers, and poor maintenance can create avoidable hazards.

Faulty Equipment Incidents

Leaking pumps, faulty hoses, or poorly maintained systems can create sudden and dangerous conditions.Injuries from slips and trips can include fractures, sprains, head injuries and back injuries. Even seemingly minor falls can result in long term pain or mobility problems.

Who Is Liable for an Accident at a Petrol Station?

Petrol station operators have a legal duty to ensure their premises are reasonably safe.

This includes:

• Regular inspection and cleaning of spills
• Clear signage warning of hazards
• Safe layout and traffic management
• Proper maintenance of equipment

If they fail in this duty and you are injured, you may have grounds for a claim.

When Is a Petrol Station Operator at Fault?

A petrol station operator may be considered at fault if they fail to take reasonable steps to keep visitors safe.

This can include situations where they have not:

• Carried out regular inspections to identify potential hazards
• Cleaned up petrol, diesel, or oil spills promptly
• Put up clear warning signs where hazards are present
• Maintained safe walking areas for customers and pedestrians
• Ensured the site layout allows for safe movement of vehicles and people
• Properly maintained pumps, hoses, and other equipment
• Followed appropriate health and safety procedures, including HSE guidance

CCTV-Supported Petrol Station Claims

Most fuel stations operate CCTV systems, which can be critical evidence.

Footage can help establish:

• When the hazard first appeared
• How long it remained unattended
• Whether staff acted appropriately
• The exact cause of the accident

We act quickly to preserve CCTV evidence before it is overwritten.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making a Petrol Station Accident Claim

Making a claim can feel daunting, but our team guides you through every stage:

Step 1: Seek Medical Attention

Your health comes first. Ensure your injuries are assessed and documented by a medical professional.

Step 2: Report the Accident

Inform petrol station staff immediately and ensure the incident is recorded in the accident book.

Step 3: Gather Evidence

Take photos of the hazard, your injuries, and the scene. Collect witness details where possible.

Step 4: Request CCTV Footage

Ask the petrol station to preserve any CCTV footage of the incident.

Step 5: Contact Aequitas Legal

Speak to our solicitors for expert advice. We will assess your case and explain your options.

Step 6: Investigation and Claim Submission

We gather evidence, obtain medical reports, and submit your claim to the responsible party.

Step 7: Negotiation or Court Proceedings

Most claims settle out of court. If needed, we will represent you in court to secure fair compensation.

How Compensation Is Calculated

Compensation is assessed based on two main elements:

General Damages

This covers:

• Pain, suffering, and loss of amenity
• Severity and long-term impact of injuries

Special Damages

This covers financial losses, including:

• Loss of earnings
• Medical treatment and rehabilitation costs
• Travel expenses
• Care and assistance needs

Petrol station Accident Claim Compensation Examples

Injury Type	Severity	Estimated Compensation Range
Minor soft tissue injury	Mild	£1,000 – £3,000
Wrist or ankle fracture	Moderate	£5,000 – £15,000
Back injury	Moderate to severe	£10,000 – £40,000
Head injury	Moderate	£15,000 – £50,000
Serious fractures	Severe	£30,000 – £100,000
Multiple injuries	Severe	£50,000 – £250,000

Compensation depends on the severity of your injuries, financial losses, and the impact on your daily life.

Can You Claim If You Were Partly at Fault?

Yes. If you were partially responsible, your compensation may be reduced, but you can still pursue a claim.

Why Choose Aequitas Legal?

Aequitas Legal provides a professional yet approachable service. Based in Manchester, we understand the importance of clear communication and practical support.

Experienced with Public Liability Claims

Our solicitors have experience handling public liability claims involving supermarket accidents, slips, trips and unsafe premises. We understand how these claims are investigated and what is needed to build a strong case on your behalf.

Fast Action to Secure CCTV Evidence

CCTV footage can play an important role in proving how an accident happened. We act quickly to request and preserve supermarket CCTV, accident reports and other key evidence before it is lost or deleted.

Straightforward Legal Advice

We pride ourselves on providing clear, practical legal advice without unnecessary jargon. Our team will guide you through the claims process step-by-step and keep you informed throughout your case.

No Win, No Fee Representation

Many of our claims are handled on a no win, no fee basis, allowing clients to pursue compensation without worrying about upfront legal costs. This helps make expert legal support accessible following an accident.

Time Limits for Claims

In most cases, you have three years from the date of the accident to make a claim. However, it is best to seek advice as soon as possible while evidence is still available.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I claim for slipping on petrol?
Yes, if the spill was not cleaned or marked in time, you may claim compensation.

2. What if CCTV footage is deleted?
We act quickly to request footage. Other evidence like photos and witnesses can still support your claim.

3. Do I need to prove fault?
Yes, we must show the petrol station failed in its duty of care.

4. How long does a claim take?
Most claims settle within months, but complex cases may take longer.

5. Will I need to go to court?
Most claims settle out of court. Court is only needed if liability is disputed.

6. Can I claim if I was partly at fault?
Yes, you may still receive compensation, though it could be reduced.

Contact our Petrol Station Accident Claim Solicitors in Manchester

We understand how these accidents can happen and the impact they can have on your day-to-day life. If you have been injured at a petrol station, our solicitors will provide clear advice, handle the legal process on your behalf, and act quickly to protect your claim. Call our team on 0161 358 0800 or complete our online contact form to get started.