Usually the responsibility of the Council, all roads and pavements should be kept in a reasonable state of repair.  If an accident occurs due to a failure to implement a satisfactory system of inspection and maintenance, they may be found liable.  Such dangers may include:

• Raised or uneven paving stones
• Potholes
  
• The presence of hazardous and slippery substances

If a defect is not caused by the Council but occurs on a highway for which they are responsible, they should have a record of all appropriate contractors working in the area.

Examples may include:

• Spills making the Highway dangerous
• Trenches or areas of roadworks that are not sectioned off clearly or are incomplete

In the event of an accident in which an injury is sustained you should:

• Make sure you can identify the exact location
  
• Take photographs of any defects as soon as possible - to include clear measurements using a ruler or tape measure if possible (provided it is safe to do so)
  
• Collect details of any witnesses to the incident
• Write to the Council as soon as possible giving full details of the incident (time, place, date and the injuries sustained)
• Seek medical and legal advice