Six in ten public injuries go unreported, new research reveals

Latest figures by Slater and Gordon reveal that 60% of public injuries go unreported across the UK, leaving hazards unfixed and placing others at risk.

Over the last 12 months, nearly four in ten people reported they were injured in public (39%).

Despite 27.5 million people being injured in public in the UK annually, only 10 million people reported their injury, the law firm’s research revealed for Injury Awareness Week

With such a significant number of injuries going unreported, those responsible are unable to take accountability, with others left vulnerable to facing similar injuries in places such as pavements (which affected one in two respondents), public stairs (20%) or car parks (16%).

Some respondents also suffered serious injuries, withmore than a quarter experiencing a sprain, twisting or pulling a body part, and a further one in five breaking a bone.

Further findings also highlighted the aftermath, where more than one in five needed time off work (22%) and 12% required rehabilitation in their recovery.

Even though some respondents suffered significant injuries and required long-term recovery, the research raises concern as to why 61% didn’t report the incident, with 13% deciding to not pursue a legal claim.

However, the research highlighted that both a fear of judgement and a lack of knowledge of their own rights acted as barriers to reporting. Notably, 29% of people said they didn’t want to appear dramatic, and 14% were not aware they had a legal right to make a claim.

Furthermore, 40% felt it was too much effort or hassle, and 20% said there wasn’t a reason why they didn't report the incident.

When injuries do go unreported, it only means others are also left at risk of injury.

As Bob Miller, associate solicitor at Slater and Gordon, explains: “The findings are rather shocking and put into perspective a worrying lack of accountability when incidents go unreported.

“When someone gets injured, we mustn’t forget the impact this can have on their livelihood. Recovery may come with time off work, loss of earnings, and with more severe injuries, there can also be long-lasting physical or emotional effects that people are left to navigate.

“Without reporting, there is a clear opportunity missed where things can be made right. Public authorities can take accountability and fix the hazard, preventing others from having the same misfortune. Otherwise, the same thing will happen, where others may experience an injury far worse.

“The key takeaway from the research is that people must be aware of their rights. If you have been affected by an injury through no fault of your own, you are entitled to explore your options. This includes compensation which can help with your recovery.

“With that being said, reporting an incident doesn’t mean it should be a complicated process. With the right legal support, the process can be empowering, straightforward and can achieve a fair outcome for the individual involved.”