A trip-and-fall accident is not only embarrassing, it can also cause serious and debilitating injuries. Unfortunately, many sidewalk accident victims never explore their legal options because they are unsure of what caused the incident or who may be liable for their injuries.
Pedestrian accidents happen every day in New Jersey, and a large number of these accidents go unreported. If you fell while walking on a sidewalk or on public property, you may actually have a valid claim to financial compensation. You can learn more about this possibility by reaching out to an experienced personal injury attorney who can explain your legal options.
Why do pedestrian accidents happen?
Pedestrian accidents happen for many reasons. Some relate to recklessness or inattentiveness, but often, these types of incidents happen because of factors beyond the control of the victim. According to information presented by the Pedestrian and Bicycle Information Center, the common reasons for pedestrian accidents include:
- Falls related to uneven or cracked sidewalks
- Trips and falls
- Being hit by a car
- Trip from loose rocks or debris
- Animals or pets
- Stepping in a hole
Regardless of why your pedestrian accident happened, you deserve to know your legal options. If you have a valid claim to compensation, you may find it beneficial to seek assistance in order to fight effectively for the maximum amount of compensation available to you.
Who is responsible for sidewalk hazards?
According to the same statistics, approximately 24 percent of all pedestrian accidents relate to uneven or cracked sidewalks. That means that a significant portion of pedestrian injuries and damages are a direct result of negligent maintenance and unnecessary safety hazards.
It can be difficult to accurately determine which parties may be liable for your sidewalk accident, but some of the following may be included in your civil claim:
- Municipal authorities
- Contractors responsible for repairs
- Property owners
- Business responsible for property upkeep
If unsafe sidewalks or dangerous property conditions played a role in your accident, it is not your fault.
The full recovery you deserve
What should you do after a sidewalk accident? Whether you know exactly what caused your accident or you are unsure if you have claim, it is always appropriate to seek a full understanding of your legal options. A complete case evaluation with an experienced attorney can reveal the most appropriate course of action for your individual case. You can protect your interests after a sidewalk accident and help secure the compensation you deserve for a full recovery.