Whether you’re walking to a local supermarket or going for a run with your dog, the last thing you expect is to end up on the ground in pain. Unfortunately, when sidewalk hazards are present, this is a high probability. The most common hazards include broken or uneven pavement, debris, inadequate drainage, and poor lighting. These dangerous conditions can lead to serious slip and fall injuries. If this reflects your circumstances, the following blog explores the most common hazards you may face and how to determine liability in these matters. Additionally, you’ll learn the importance of working with a Tom Green County, Texas personal injury lawyer to discuss your options.
What Sidewalk Hazards Are Most Common?
Unfortunately, there are several hazards you may come into contact with as a pedestrian traveling on sidewalks in San Angelo, Water Valley, Wall, or any other community in or around Tom Green County. As such, familiarizing yourself with these dangers can help reduce the risk of injuries.
Common Sidewalk Hazards in Texas
- Missing or broken slabs
- Inadequate lighting
- Uneven surfaces
- Debris or cords
- Poor drainage, leading to standing water
- Wet leaves
- Cracked, crumbling, or buckled sidewalks
- Overgrown vegetation
- Tree roots lifting pavement
- Sinking sidewalks
- Construction material and other debris left on sidewalks
In addition, you’ll find that sidewalks without ramps or curb cuts, as well as elevated portions of sidewalks with missing or broken handrails, can also lead to injuries for those traversing these walkways.
Why Are Sidewalk Hazards So Dangerous in Tom Green County?
Sidewalk hazards may seem minor, but even a small hazard or defect can result in a serious risk for pedestrians. In fact, even slight elevation differences between slabs can result in a slip and fall, ultimately causing serious injuries.
How Sidewalk Hazards Cause Injuries
- A height difference of even a quarter inch can create a tripping hazard
- Uneven or unstable surfaces increase the risk of falls
- Poor lighting reduces the visibility of hazards
- Debris and other objects can create obstructions, increasing the risk of tripping and falling
- Standing water may conceal dangerous hazards and defects
What Injuries Can a Sidewalk Hazard Cause?
Slip and fall accidents caused by sidewalk hazards are often more serious than people expect. Unfortunately, these injuries can result in long-term physical and financial consequences.
Common Injuries from a Sidewalk Accident
- Broken and fractured bones
- Head trauma
- Facial injuries and dental damage
- Sprains and strains
- Lacerations
- Soft tissue injuries
- Neck and spinal cord damage
Who Can Face Liability for Injuries?
It’s critical to understand that, typically, the property owner can face liability for the injuries you’ve sustained on a sidewalk.
In many instances, while the city may be responsible for any repairs to the structural integrity of the sidewalk, the property owner adjacent to the walkway can face liability for slips, trips, and falls due to unsafe conditions on the property. This is because many towns and cities within Texas have ordinances removing liability from the government and placing responsibility on the property owner.
When Property Owners Are Liable
- The owner knew or should have known about the hazard
- The dangerous condition was not repaired in a reasonable time
- The hazard directly caused your injuries
- The condition posed an unreasonable risk to pedestrians
When the Government May Be Liable
However, if the property owner adjacent to the sidewalk is owned or operated by the government, like a post office or municipal building, then the municipality would face liability for the injuries you’ve endured. If this is the case and you wish to pursue a lawsuit against a negligent government entity for the injuries you have sustained, you must provide a notice of claim. This is because the government has sovereign immunity, but has waived that right for tort claims. However, strict guidelines must be followed to pursue compensation from a town or city.
Contact an Experienced Tom Green County Sidewalk Injury Attorney
As you can see, several important considerations must be made when you are injured in a slip and fall due to the negligent actions of another person. That is why working with an experienced attorney with the Mathis Law Firm is in your best interest. We understand that navigating these matters can be incredibly complicated. When you need help, our team is here. Contact us today to learn more.
