Slips and trips happen all the time and often they’re simply laughed off. However, if you’ve suffered a personal injury as a result of a fall, you’ll know how devastating the consequences of these accidents can be.
Sidewalk slips and trips are especially common. In fact, they’re one of the most common avoidable accidents that individuals can experience. Often, these incidents result in cuts and bruises. However, they can also lead to sprained or broken ankles and wrists. In the most serious cases, they can cause severe and long lasting damage to the back and spine, traumatic brain injuries or even death.
If you or someone you love has been affected by a sidewalk accident, it’s well worth finding out if you can take legal action. Seeking compensation won’t undo the harm caused, but it can help you to cover any medical costs and lost earnings. It can also provide you with a sense of closure.
Was someone else to blame?
You might be entitled to compensation if your slip or trip was the result of someone else’s negligence. All property owners are required under the law to maintain their sidewalks in a safe manner to prevent avoidable injuries to sidewalk users.
Examples of safety failings include faulty sidewalk construction, violations of building codes, inadequate maintenance and a failure to clear snow and ice. Uncleared dirt, weeds and other debris or growth can also be classified as negligence. Uneven sections of sidewalk, projecting pipes or bolts and cracks or lifting caused by tree roots are viewed as safety failings too. Meanwhile, you may also have a case if you fall because of loose or protruding gratings, doors and covers.
Speak to a legal professional
If you slipped, fell and got hurt on a sidewalk in Staten Island and think you may be able to get compensation, it’s worth getting in touch with an experienced lawyer. These legal professionals will be able to guide you through the process and help ensure you achieve the best possible outcome.
When you’re choosing your lawyer, make sure you opt for someone who has all the relevant skills and experience.
The sooner the better
Bear in mind that you can’t dawdle if you’re to make a successful claim. New York law requires that sidewalk accident claims against municipal entities are initiated within 90 days of the events taking place. If you leave your case beyond this point, you won’t be able to proceed.
Get your life back on track
Taking legal action can be an empowering feeling. As long as you’re successful in your claim, you can bring those responsible for your suffering to justice. You also stand to benefit from a compensation package that could help you to get your life back on track.
As well as the personal benefits that legal action brings, you can help others by making your case. After all, you will send out a clear message that failing to maintain sidewalks properly and safely is not something that individuals and organizations can get away with.
