Around €44 million was awarded following public liability accidents last year.

According to figures released by the Injuries Board, over 1,700 claims were settled during 2013.

The research shows slips, trips and falls are the main cause of public liability accidents.

The average settlement increased year-on-year by almost 11% to over €25,000. However the number of claims has not gone up.

Over 70% of awards made were to women, while July was the highest month for claims.

The CEO of the Injuries Board, Patricia Byron explained the main findings, saying "we've seen in 2013 over 2012... more serious claims come in":