When most people think of a slip, trip, or fall accident, they often assume that clumsiness is the culprit. However, the reality is that there are an average of 700 deaths each year in the United States as a result of a slip, trip, or fall. Not only are these accidents more damaging than some may think, but it may also be hard to determine who is responsible for slip, trip, or fall cases on California sidewalks.
Setareh Law is a team of passionate and dedicated slip, trip, or fall injury lawyers in California. Our experienced team may help you understand who may be responsible for your slip, trip, or fall accident on a sidewalk in California as they help build your injury claim.
Who is Liable for a Slip, Trip, or Fall On a California Sidewalk?
As with all accidents, it is never simple to determine who is liable. When it comes to a slip, trip, or fall on a sidewalk in California, liability is typically held by either the city or property owner.
Why May the City Be Liable?
A California city may be held liable if it can be proven that it was their actions that caused the action or if it was their responsibility to care for the sidewalk. The city has a legal responsibility to provide reasonably safe sidewalk conditions for pedestrians and bicyclists, if applicable. If the city planted trees that caused roots to come up and cause cracks in the sidewalk, they may be held liable. Additionally, if the sidewalk has been in bad condition for a while and the city has not had it fixed, they may be found negligent and be held liable for a slip, trip, or fall accident.
Why May a Property Owner Be Liable?
It may be confusing to know when a property owner may be liable for a slip, trip, or fall accident, but there are times when that is the case. If it is proved that a property owner was the one that planted a tree or other plant that caused roots to break cracks into the sidewalk, they may be liable for an accident. If the property owner owns the sidewalk’s land, this is another case where they may be responsible if an injury occurs.
What Are Common Slip, Trip, or Fall Injuries?
After a slip, trip, or fall, accident victims may suffer from a wide range of injuries, including the following:
- Head injuries
- Coma
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Broken or fractured limbs
- Cuts, lacerations, or bruising
- Broken or lost teeth
- Post-traumatic stress disorder
- Back, neck, or spine injuries
- Paralysis
- Death
Whether your injuries are minor or severe, you should always seek medical attention after a slip, trip, or fall accident. This is important for your safety and health, as well as a way to document the losses you may suffer as you try to collect any damages you may be eligible for.
California Slip, Trip, or Fall Lawyers Are on Your Side
Understanding who is responsible for a slip, trip, or fall accident is not a simple answer. However, if you or a loved one is injured in a slip, trip, or fall accident, an experienced lawyer may be able to help you determine who is at fault.
Setareh Law is a team of leading California slip, trip, or fall injury lawyers with experience helping victims build a solid personal injury claim. We provide our clients with the award-winning and dedicated representation they deserve. For a free consultation, contact us here or call (310) 659-1826.