Many local authorities have experienced an increase in the number of claims for compensation they receive. Whilst a large proportion of these are successfully defended, dealing with such claims is nonetheless time consuming and, together with the cost of settling bona fide claims, can use up a sizeable chunk of a council’s budget.

For example, in the year 2011/2012, 291 claims were made against Norfolk County Council and Norwich City Council in respect of accidents on the highway or in public places for which the Councils are responsible. In the same period, 67 claims were successful, at a cost to the Councils of £938,236 in compensation and legal costs.

91 of the claims received during 2011/2012 related to roads managed by Norwich City Council. During the year, the Council dealt with 71 claims, 16 of which were settled for payment at a total cost to the taxpayer of £116,324.

For example, a jogger who tripped over a pothole and suffered soft tissue damage received £5,750 in damages.

Another successful claimant, who tripped on an uneven pavement and sustained a knee injury, received £4,250.

A pedestrian who injured their shoulder after bumping into a sign overhanging a footpath won damages of £650.

200 claims were made relating to highways that are the responsibility of Norfolk County Council and 51 cases were settled at a total cost to the taxpayer of £821,912.

The largest single damages award was £63,633, which was made to a claimant who tripped on a poorly maintained pavement in Great Yarmouth and suffered fractured ribs.