High Quality Content by WIKIPEDIA articles! Ward v Tesco Stores Ltd 1 WLR 810, is an English tort law case concerning the doctrine of res ipsa loquitur ("the thing speaks for itself"). It deals with the law of negligence and it set an important precedent in so called "trip and slip" cases which are a common occurrence. Under the Occupiers` Liability Act 1957, owners of premises have a duty to ensure that it is reasonably safe for visitors. Therefore when an accident occurs because premises are not reasonably safe, the occupier of the premises may be liable to pay compensation for any injuries. The decision in this case puts the burden of proof on the occupier to show that he was not negligent.