Last year I tripped on a poorly-repaired pavement left by contractors laying cables. I’m 73 and suffered severe bruising to my left leg and arm. The council told me the contractors were responsible. I wrote to the firm enclosing photos and demanding £500 compensation for pain, suffering, bruising and a suit of clothes, but three letters and a ‘phone call later there’s still no sign of any money.
You may have to threaten the firm with legal action, or even start court proceedings if you are to be compensated. It was sensible to obtain photographs, which can be invaluable in these cases, but be careful about specifying amounts of compensation: you may ask for too little! A solicitor may take your case on a “no win, no fee” basis. An interview at which you could discuss this should be free.