A fall on a cracked or uneven sidewalk can happen in seconds, but the injuries and financial consequences may last much longer. In Massachusetts, property owners and municipalities may be responsible for maintaining safe walkways. If hazardous sidewalk conditions caused your injuries, you may be wondering whether you need legal representation and what your options are moving forward.
Factors that Can Lead to Unsafe Sidewalks
Sidewalks deteriorate over time for many reasons. Harsh New England winters, freeze-thaw cycles, tree root growth, poor construction, and lack of maintenance can all create dangerous walking conditions. Uneven pavement, loose concrete, potholes, and cracked surfaces are among the most common hazards pedestrians encounter.
Snow, ice, and standing water may conceal uneven surfaces or increase the likelihood of slipping. In some cases, nearby construction projects or utility work may leave sidewalks damaged or improperly repaired.
When property owners or municipalities fail to inspect and repair these hazards within a reasonable timeframe, pedestrians can suffer serious injuries.
Common Types of Injuries from Sidewalk Falls
Slip and fall accidents on sidewalks often result in more than just minor bruises. Depending on the circumstances, victims may experience severe injuries that require ongoing medical treatment and time away from work.
Some common injuries associated with sidewalk falls include:
- Broken wrists, arms, or ankles
- Knee and shoulder injuries
- Head trauma or concussions
- Back and spinal cord injuries
- Cuts, bruises, and soft tissue damage
- Hip fractures, especially among older adults
Even injuries that initially seem minor can worsen over time. Medical bills, rehabilitation costs, and lost income can quickly become overwhelming after an unexpected fall.
Who’s Liable for a Slip and Fall?
Determining liability in a sidewalk accident depends on where the fall occurred and who was responsible for maintaining the area. In Massachusetts, liability may fall on a private property owner, a business, a contractor, or a city or town government.
To succeed in a slip and fall claim, an injured person generally must show that a hazardous condition existed, the responsible party knew or should have known about it, and that the hazard directly caused the injuries.
Can I Sue the City for a Public Sidewalk Injury?
Yes, in some situations you may be able to file a claim against a Massachusetts city or town for injuries caused by a dangerous public sidewalk. However, claims against government entities are often more complicated than standard personal injury cases.
Massachusetts law imposes strict notice requirements and deadlines for claims involving public property. Missing these deadlines could prevent you from recovering compensation altogether. Additionally, municipalities may have certain legal protections or immunity defenses that make these cases more challenging.
Because of the statute of limitations and sovereign immunity, speaking with a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible after the accident can help protect your rights and preserve important evidence.
Get Help with Your Slip and Fall Case Today: Call Tetzel Law
Tetzel Law understands how stressful a serious fall injury can be and is committed to helping injured victims understand their legal options. Contact our Massachusetts personal injury lawyers today to discuss your sidewalk injury claim and learn how an attorney may be able to help. Reach us at (617) 742-1700 or online today to get started.