Sidewalks shouldn’t be dangerous, but there are actually all sorts of ways that they can trip up people and cause serious injuries. Many of these common sidewalk hazards could have been avoided though, if only the people in charge of taking care of these walkways were responsible enough to address them. So if you got hurt after falling on a sidewalk, don’t just chalk it up to bad luck. Talk to our Queens slip & fall accident attorneys and see if you have a personal injury case on your hands.

What Kinds of Dangerous Sidewalk Hazards Can Cause Falls?

There are a few common types of sidewalk hazards that can cause someone to fall and get injured. Anyone who is responsible for keeping a sidewalk safe should be dealing with issues like:

  • Ice and snow
  • Rain and standing water
  • Cracks and broken concrete
  • Crumbling curbs
  • Debris left over from construction or other work
  • Damage from tree roots

What Types of Injuries Are Common in Sidewalk Accidents?

Sidewalk hazards can cause all kinds of serious injuries. Victims can end up with:

  • Bruises, cuts, and scrapes
  • Head injuries like concussions
  • Broken and fractured bones
  • Organ damage
  • Spine and back injuries

These falls can be especially dangerous for older people. They are more prone to breaking bones, and a broken hip is a common outcome that can cause major problems.

Can I Sue If I Get Hurt By One of These Sidewalk Hazards?

You can, but you have to figure out who was responsible for maintaining the sidewalk where you tripped and fell before you can proceed. A liable party could be a nearby resident. People are often expected to address issues like snow and ice on the walkways in front of their homes.

If the issue was damage to the sidewalk, then the city might be to blame. A crumbling sidewalk or one damaged by tree roots should be fixed by the city. If there were reports about such sidewalk hazards and no effort was made to address them, then you may have a case. Just keep in mind that the process for suing the city is a bit different than the process for suing an individual or private company.

How Can a Lawyer Help Me?

If you do plan to sue for damages, you don’t have to go it alone. An experienced attorney can help you build a strong case and negotiate for fair compensation. Whether you have questions about the legal process or you want to make sure that you file your claim before the statute of limitations expires, we’re ready to help.

Talk to an Attorney Today

So if you think that you may have a valid personal injury claim after being injured by one of these common sidewalk hazards, we want to hear from you. Contact the Law Offices of George Poulos and ask to schedule a case consultation. We can tell you more about your legal options and suing for damages.