When you’re walking to a nearby store or ensuring your dog gets his daily exercise, ending up injured on the ground due to a hazard on the sidewalk is the last thing you anticipate. However, you’ll find that these accidents are incredibly common, so understanding what sidewalk hazards are most common is critical. The following blog explores what you should know about these matters and the importance of connecting with a Broward County slip and fall lawyer if you’ve sustained an injury due to the negligent actions of another person.
What Sidewalk Hazards Are Most Common?
The last thing you expect when you are injured when walking down the street is to encounter a hazard that leaves you with serious injuries. Unfortunately, you’ll find that there are a number of hazards that can lead to serious accidents. As such, you should familiarize yourself with the most common hazards. These include the following:
- Broken sidewalks slabs
- Holes
- Standing water
- Uneven surfaces
- Debris
- Treet roots
- Cords and other equipment left on the sidewalks
Though a trip, slip, or fall on an uneven surface might not seem like a serious injury, it’s imperative to understand that these hazards can result in serious injuries. These include but are not limited to, broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, neck and spinal cord damage, soft tissue injuries, and even facial and oral injuries.
Who Can Face Liability for These Accidents?
It’s important to understand that liability for accidents caused by sidewalk hazards depends on a number of factors. Typically, all sidewalks are technically owned by the municipality. However, this does not equate to liability. As such, the property owner of the building adjacent to the sidewalk will face liability. This means if you are hurt because of a hazard on the sidewalk in front of a town post office or police headquarters, the city would face liability.
However, if you are injured on a residential sidewalk, the homeowner is liable even though the city technically owns the sidewalk. This is because the property owner is responsible for maintaining the sidewalk.
You should note that if you are injured on municipal property, the process of filing a claim is much different. This process involves filing a formal Notice of Claim with the municipality responsible for the hazards and sidewalk where the accident occurred.
If you have been involved in a sidewalk accident, discussing your legal options with an experienced attorney is in your best interest. At the Finizo Law Group, we understand that sustaining an injury due to the negligent actions of another person can be incredibly devastating for you and your family. If you are injured, don’t hesitate to contact our dedicated team to discuss how we can help you during these difficult times.
