How much compensation for a broken wrist from a supermarket fall?

Compensation for a broken wrist from a supermarket fall typically ranges from £4,000 for straightforward fractures that heal fully, up to £45,000 for complex injuries causing permanent loss of function. The amount depends on fracture type, whether surgery was needed, recovery time, and long-term impact on your work and daily activities.

Can I claim if I broke my wrist trying to stop myself falling?

Yes. A wrist fracture caused by bracing against a fall that the supermarket's negligence caused is still claimable. It's a natural protective reaction when slipping—the store remains liable for the injury resulting from their failure to maintain safe premises.

What if the fracture affects my ability to work?

If your broken wrist prevents you from working, you can claim for loss of earnings as part of your Special Damages. This includes current lost income and, for permanent injuries, future earning capacity. Those in manual work or roles requiring fine motor skills may receive higher awards.

Do I need surgery for a wrist fracture to claim?

No. You can claim compensation for any wrist injury caused by a supermarket's negligence, whether treated with a cast or requiring surgery. However, surgical cases often attract higher compensation due to longer recovery times and greater risk of complications.

How long does a broken wrist store claim take to settle?

Most broken wrist claims against a supermarket settle within 9 to 18 months. Straightforward Colles' fractures that heal fully can resolve in under a year, while scaphoid fractures, surgical fixations or cases with ongoing stiffness usually take longer because your solicitor needs to wait until your medical position is stable before valuing the claim.

What counts as a wrist fracture from a supermarket fall?

Any break in the wrist bones (radius, ulna or the eight small carpal bones, including the scaphoid) caused by the fall counts. Common patterns include Colles' fractures from landing on an outstretched hand, scaphoid fractures from a direct impact, and distal radius fractures requiring plates or pins. All of them are claimable if the supermarket's negligence caused the fall.

Can I claim if I am right-handed and broke my dominant wrist?

Yes, and dominant-hand fractures typically attract higher compensation. Your solicitor will argue that loss of function in your dominant wrist has a greater impact on work, hobbies and day-to-day tasks like driving, cooking and dressing. Keep a diary of activities you have struggled with — it directly increases the 'loss of amenity' part of your payout.

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UK Supermarket Claims Guide

Broken Wrist from Store Fall: Compensation Guide

When you slip in a supermarket, your instinct is to put your hands out to break your fall. This guide explains the typical compensation for wrist fractures and the evidence needed for a claim.

Last updated: January 2026

What Types of Wrist Injuries Can You Get from a Supermarket Fall?

The most common wrist injuries from supermarket falls are Colles fractures, scaphoid fractures, complex multi-bone breaks, and permanent wrist damage. Compensation ranges from £4,000 for simple fractures healing fully to £45,000 for injuries causing lasting loss of grip or movement.

The wrist is vulnerable when breaking a fall. Compensation depends on fracture complexity, treatment required, and lasting effects on hand function.

Colles Fracture

The most common wrist fracture from a fall—breaking the radius near the wrist joint

Typical recovery: 6-12 weeks in cast

£4,000 – £8,000

Scaphoid Fracture

Break to the small bone at the base of the thumb, often missed initially

Typical recovery: 6-12 weeks, may need surgery

£5,500 – £12,000

Complex Wrist Fracture

Multiple bone breaks requiring surgery and metal fixation

Typical recovery: 3-6 months, ongoing physio

£12,000 – £22,000

Permanent Wrist Damage

Lasting loss of grip strength, movement range, or chronic pain

Typical recovery: Permanent limitations

£22,000 – £45,000

Compensation estimates based on Judicial College Guidelines 2026. Each case is assessed individually.

How Does a Broken Wrist Affect Your Daily Life?

Work Impact

Unable to type, lift, or perform manual tasks. Many professions become impossible with a wrist in a cast.

Daily Activities

Cooking, driving, dressing, and personal care all become difficult or impossible with one hand.

Long-Term Complications

Arthritis, reduced grip strength, and chronic pain can persist long after the bone heals.

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Understand how damages are calculated for wrist and arm injuries.

What Are the Most Common Broken Wrist Claim Questions?

Section 6

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