Understanding Public Liability Claims
Public liability claims arise when a person is injured due to unsafe conditions or a failure to take reasonable care on public or private property. These claims focus on whether a property owner, occupier, or authority failed to meet their duty of care and whether that failure caused the injury.
Public liability lawyers assist by identifying who is responsible, gathering evidence, and progressing claims within strict time limits. Establishing a breach of duty is a key step in securing public liability compensation.
Types of Public Liability Claims Include:
- Injuries caused by poorly maintained premises, such as wet floors without warning signs, unsafe stairs or handrails, or damaged pavement
- Injuries linked to defective or unsafe products made available in public or commercial spaces
- Injuries at public or private events due to poor safety planning, crowd control, or maintenance failures
- Injuries from dog attacks in public places or on private property where the owner failed to control the animal
Public liability claims may seek compensation for medical treatment, rehabilitation, lost income, and future care needs. In serious cases, further claims may apply if the injury prevents a return to work.
We act for clients in a wide range of public liability claims arising from injuries in public and private settings, including:
- Accidents in retail stores and shopping centres
- Injuries in public parks or on property controlled by public authorities
- Injuries at events and venues
- Dog attack injuries
- Sporting and recreational injuries
- Boating and water-related accidents
Our public liability lawyers assess liability, manage insurer involvement, and progress claims with a clear focus on protecting entitlements and achieving fair outcomes.
Our Public Liability Lawyers in Queensland and New South Wales
Scarton Law’s public liability lawyers act for people injured on public or private property across Queensland and New South Wales. We assist clients at each stage of a public liability claim, including claims involving property owners, occupiers, and insurers.
Our experience covers injuries in retail spaces, public areas, venues, and private properties. We manage evidence, insurer communication, and key time limits to reduce delay and protect your position. Whether the claim is handled locally or remotely, we provide clear advice and steady progress through to resolution.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a public liability claim?
A public liability claim arises when a person is injured due to unsafe conditions or a failure to take reasonable care on public or private property. The claim focuses on whether a duty of care was breached.
What types of injuries can public liability claims cover?
Claims may relate to injuries from slips, trips, falls, defective premises, unsafe products, dog attacks, or incidents at public or private venues.
How do I prove negligence in a public liability claim?
Negligence is shown by proving a duty of care, a breach of that duty, and a link between the breach and the injury. Evidence such as photos, reports, and medical records is often required.
What time limits apply to public liability claims?
Time limits vary depending on the type of claim and location. Seeking advice early helps ensure deadlines are not missed.
Do I need a lawyer for a public liability claim?
You can make a claim yourself, but legal advice helps manage insurers, evidence, and legal requirements. Our public liability lawyers provide clear guidance and support throughout the process.


