The other day I went to a supermarket in Swieqi and, as one does but shouldn’t do, I parked on a double-yellow line for five minutes. One day later I received a letter from the Swieqi local council informing me that there are cameras positioned to catch such criminal acts and therefore a fine was due.

Fair cop I thought (well OK that’s not exactly what I thought) and duly paid the required amount online.

This Sunday I again needed provisions and, duly warned, I parked my car correctly in the parking area near Luxol. I walked to the supermarket and walking back, being fully loaded up with goods, I managed to trip on a manhole cover which was at least an inch above the level of the pavement.

Having my hands totally full I was lucky to fall on my left arm and leg, both of which received bruising and cuts, nothing too serious but painful all the same. Some toes on my left foot were skinned, my newish shorts ripped and as for the six eggs I was carrying, they made an instant inedible omelette.

Being not in the first flush of youth, as I picked myself up from the floor a driver very kindly stopped and enquired as to whether I was OK – thank you whoever you are, it was kind of you.

So my question is this. I paid my fine for my misdeeds. Now who do I speak to regarding the damages, pain and losses that I suffered?

Surely there’s not one rule for us plebs and another for the local government?

If the pavements are not maintained and uneven someone is responsible. So who do I call?

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