Frequently Asked Questions

Question:

Who will be responsible if a walker is injured whilst walking through a busy farm?

Answer:

It depends.

• If the condition of the surface of the footpath is the cause of the injury, the Council may be liable.
• If the injury is caused by plant, equipment, or materials belonging to the landowner, then the landowner may be responsible.
• If a particular operator of machinery causes injury through negligence, that individual may be responsible.

Everyone has a duty under Health and Safety law to protect themselves, and members of the public, from injury or harm.

You should always take great care when walking through a busy farm.

If an incident happens to you that causes injury whilst walking on a public right of way, then you should report the incident to the Council. You may also decide to consult a solicitor.

In any event, write up what happened as soon as possible after the incident. You should also take the names and addresses of any witnesses.

Contact for further information: Assistant Rights of Way Officer, telephone: 01432 260572 or see the Public Rights of Way section.

Last Updated: 08 May 08,

Review Date: 20 September 2005