Sidewalks offer safe pathways for walking and commuting—but they can also pose hazards that lead to slips, trips and falls. This can result in injuries ranging from minor bruises to severe fractures or head trauma. Here’s what to do if you find yourself in this situation.
Prioritize medical help
Your health and safety should be your top priority following a slip, trip or fall on a municipal sidewalk. Even if your injuries seem minor at first, it’s crucial to seek medical attention promptly to assess the extent of your injuries and receive appropriate treatment. Some injuries, such as concussions or internal injuries, may not be immediately apparent but could worsen over time if left untreated.
Document the scene
If you’re physically able to do so, take photographs or videos of the location where the accident occurred, including any hazardous conditions that may have contributed to your fall. Pay attention to factors such as cracked or uneven pavement, slippery surfaces, debris or obstructions on the sidewalk. Additionally, note the date, time and weather conditions at the time of the accident, as this information may be relevant.
Report the incident
Notify the appropriate authorities or property owner about the accident as soon as possible. If the sidewalk is maintained by a municipality, contact the local public works department or city administration to report the hazardous condition that caused your fall. Be sure to obtain a copy of the incident report for your records, as it may serve as valuable evidence in your case.
Seek eyewitness information
If there were witnesses to the accident, ask for their contact information, including names and phone numbers. Witness testimony can provide corroborating evidence of the hazardous conditions on the sidewalk and help support your claim for compensation.
Preserve evidence
Preserve any evidence related to your slip, trip or fall on the municipal sidewalk. This may include medical records, accident reports, photographs, witness statements and correspondence with authorities or property owners. These documents can help support your claim and strengthen your case during negotiations with insurance companies or in court.
Consult with the Law Offices of Tim Misny
Navigating the legal complexities of a slip, trip and fall injury claim involving a municipal sidewalk can be challenging. When you’re dealing with claims against municipalities, there’s typically a much shorter statute of limitations—and the process often differs from dealing with a private property owner. It’s important to call the Law Offices of Tim Misny right away, or your claim may be barred.
Discuss your accident with a Columbus personal injury lawyer
The Law Offices of Tim Misny can help you with your municipal sidewalk slip-and-fall claim. When you’re the victim of negligence or recklessness, I’ll Make Them Pay!® Call my office at (877) 614-9524 so that I can evaluate your case right away.
