Unfortunately, many communities in Texas and across the United States are becoming less walkable, meaning it is growing increasingly difficult and less safe for pedestrians. This is because many communities are moving toward car-centric infrastructure and designs. As such, pedestrians are left with fewer routes, and unfortunately, many of these options include dangerous sidewalks, which can result in serious injuries. As such, if you have been injured because of hazardous conditions on a sidewalk, the following blog explores what you should know about how to proceed. In addition, you’ll learn the importance of working with a Tom Green County, Texas personal injury lawyer to explore your legal options during these challenging and frustrating times.
What Makes Sidewalks Unsafe?
While you may not think of sidewalks as particularly dangerous, there are a number of hazards you can encounter while walking that can render these walkways unsafe. Common hazards include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Missing or broken slabs
- Cracked, crumbling, or buckling
- Overgrown vegetation
- Tree routs
- Uneven surfaces
- Sinking
- Standing water
- Debris left on sidewalks
- Cords or other wires
- Construction materials
- Leaves or tree branches
Unfortunately, the variation in height between sidewalk slabs creates a dangerous condition. This is because even a quarter of an inch of height difference between two different sidewalk slabs is enough to be considered a tripping hazard, as a pedestrian may trip and fall over.
What Should I Do if I’m Injured on a Dangerous Sidewalk?
In the event you are injured while walking on a sidewalk, it’s critical to seek immediate medical care. Not only can this help ensure you get relief and care for your injuries, but it can also establish treatment. This can assist in your lawsuit, as the other party cannot claim you failed to mitigate damages by delaying care.
There is a common conception that slips and falls are not serious, when, in reality, they can lead to a number of serious injuries. As such, victims of slips and falls on unsafe sidewalks can endure broken and fractured bones, neck and spinal cord injuries, back injuries, sprains, strains, lacerations, and even facial injuries. As such, receiving care as soon as possible is critical.
In addition to calling an ambulance for your urgent injuries, you should contact the police to file a report. This ensures your injuries, as well as where and when they happened, are formally documented.
Typically, you’ll find that property owners are responsible for the portion of the sidewalk adjacent to their property, as well as the apron of their driveway. As such, if there are unsafe conditions that leave you with injuries, they can face liability.
When you are injured due to the negligence of another party, you should not have to bear the financial burden associated with these incidents. That is why it is in your best interest to connect with an experienced attorney with the Mathis Law Firm, PLLC, as soon as possible. Our team can examine your circumstances to help you determine the best possible outcome for your situation. Connect with us today to learn more.
