How a Slip and Fall Lawyer Handles Cases Involving Uneven Sidewalk

Slip and fall accidents caused by uneven sidewalks are more common than you might think. While these cases may seem straightforward, they often involve multiple challenges, such as identifying who is responsible and proving negligence. Here’s how a slip and fall lawyer can help you handle a claim involving uneven sidewalks.

Determining Responsibility in a Sidewalk Injury Case

Who Is Liable?

The first step in a sidewalk injury case is figuring out who is responsible for maintaining the area where the accident happened. This could be:

• The city or municipality
• A private property owner
• A business near the sidewalk

For example, if the sidewalk is outside a private home, the homeowner might be responsible. But if it’s in front of a store, the business owner could be held liable. When the sidewalk is part of public property, the local government may be at fault.

Proving That a Fall on Uneven Sidewalk Was Caused by Negligence

What Needs to Be Shown?

To succeed in a slip and fall case involving uneven sidewalks, you and your lawyer need to prove negligence. This involves showing:

1. The sidewalk was unsafe: There must be a clear defect, such as large cracks, uneven pavement, or potholes.
2. The responsible party knew about the hazard: You must demonstrate that the person or entity responsible was aware of the problem but didn’t fix it in a reasonable amount of time.
3. The unsafe condition caused your injury: It’s important to prove that the hazard was directly responsible for your fall and injuries.

Example: If a business owner ignored a damaged sidewalk outside their shop for months, they might be held responsible for injuries caused by that hazard.

Gathering Evidence

How an Attorney Builds Your Case

A strong slip and fall claim relies on solid evidence. A lawyer will:

1. Take photographs of the uneven sidewalk.
2. Collect medical records to link your injuries to the fall.
3. Obtain witness statements from people who saw the accident.
4. Request maintenance records or complaints about the sidewalk to prove negligence.

This evidence will help demonstrate that the property owner or government agency failed to address the hazard.

Overcoming Legal Challenges

Claims Against Government Entities

If the sidewalk is owned by a city or municipality, the process becomes more complicated. Filing a claim against a government agency often involves:

• Following strict deadlines (sometimes as short as 30-90 days).
• Providing detailed evidence of negligence.
• Meeting legal requirements unique to government cases.

An experienced slip and fall injury lawyer with in-depth knowledge of the law can navigate these rules to ensure your claim is filed correctly and on time.

Consult a Slip and Fall Lawyer for Assistance

Uneven sidewalks can cause serious injuries, but proving liability and negligence can be difficult without professional help. A personal injury attorney with experience handling slip and fall cases involving falls on uneven sidewalks, can guide you through the process, gather evidence, and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Have you been injured in a slip-and-fall? Contact Steinberg Injury Lawyers today to discuss the complexities of sidewalk cases and safeguard your rights.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I sue the city if I fall on a public sidewalk?

Yes, but you must follow specific legal procedures and deadlines for filing claims against a government entity.

2. What compensation can I receive?

You may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain, suffering, and other damages.

3. What if the sidewalk was damaged by tree roots?

You can still file a claim if the responsible party failed to repair or warn about the hazard.

4. How long do I have to file a claim?

Time limits vary, especially if a government agency is involved. Contact a lawyer quickly to avoid missing deadlines.