In Canberra, footpath related injuries are a common cause of personal injury claims, particularly in urban areas with uneven surfaces, poor maintenance, or obstacles that can lead to trips, slips and falls. Injuries often involve fractures, sprains, or head trauma, and can have serious consequences for victims, especially for vulnerable residents of our community. The ACT Government is responsible for maintaining public footpaths and may be held liable if negligence in upkeep can be proven to be the cause of sustained injuries.
How much has the ACT Government paid out in personal injury liability claims relating to footpath injuries?
In a recent Questions on Notice Paper, the Minister for City and Government Services, Tara Cheyne MLA, revealed the amounts paid out by the ACT Government for personal injury claims associated with community paths between 2024-2025 totalled $1,722,578. A copy of the Paper can be found here.
Have you been injured in a community footpath related accident?
Such claims can be complex. Not every slip, trip or fall will result in a successful claim for compensation for any injuries sustained.
It is necessary to prove that the incident was caused by the condition or state of repair of the pathway or road. It is also necessary to show that the condition or poor state of repair arose because of a risk created by the government, or a failure to act when it was aware or should have been aware of the risk of injury.
It is always important to report any incident to the government and take photos if possible. It is also necessary to seek medical help for all injuries at the first opportunity.
There are time limits in public liability claims and certain procedures to be followed, so it is essential that you seek advice as soon as possible.
