Philadelphia Sidewalk Accident Lawyer

Like everyone who owns or maintains property, people responsible for sidewalks must make sure they aren’t in a dangerous condition. In an urban area like Philadelphia, heavy traffic, low Philadelphia city budgets, construction and other facts of life can cause dangerous conditions like steep drop-offs, large cracks, ice, uncleared snow or debris and more.

When it’s not possible to clear the hazard — for example, because of ongoing construction — the property’s maintainer has an obligation to post a warning. If they fail to clear away hazards or post a warning, a Philadelphia sidewalk accident lawyer can help anyone who suffers a sidewalk trip and fall accident can hold the maintainer legally liable for all of the injuries that result. Schedule a free case evaluation with us today.

Why Choose Our Firm?

• We dedicate the time and attention that each case deserves and have recovered more than $100 million for our clients.
• We prepare each case for trial because we fight for the best outcome for every client.
• We represent sidewalk accident victims on a contingency fee basis, which means there are no out-of-pocket fees, and we only get paid when you do.

Why You Need a Philadelphia Sidewalk Accident Attorney

Proving negligence for a sidewalk accident can be challenging. Property owners and government agencies will not immediately accept liability, which means you will have to fight for your compensation. That will require a thorough understanding of Pennsylvania premises liability laws and how to build a solid case. Having an attorney working with you can help ensure that the blame for the accident is not shifted onto you and your claim is not unfairly denied.

What are Common Types of Sidewalk Accident Injuries?

Sidewalk accidents may sound like minor accidents or kid stuff. But they can actually be quite serious, and cause:

Wrist and Hand Injuries

Very common injuries in any type of sidewalk accident, since people naturally put their hands out to catch themselves. Unfortunately, the force of impact on the hands and wrists can cause them to break or shatter under the pressure.

Back Injuries

Even if you do not fall to the ground, you can sustain a back injury while catching yourself. This is often due to the back being quickly twisted or turned, causing sprains, strains, herniated discs, and potential spinal cord injuries.

Hip Injuries

Hip injuries and breaks are prevalent among the elderly from falls. However, it can happen to anyone in a sidewalk accident, depending on the severity and where the body lands on the ground.

Fractures and Broken Bones

Any bone can be broken, from minor hairline fractures to bones being shattered; the degree of the break depends on how much of the impact is taken by those bones and how the person landed.

When those injuries were caused by someone else’s negligence, victims can claim compensation for medical bills, lost income, permanent disabilities, and more.

Who is Responsible for a Sidewalk Accident?

In sidewalk accidents, one common question is whether the local government or the owner of the adjacent property is responsible for the sidewalk’s condition. In Philadelphia, property owners are responsible for their own property, and often for clearing the sidewalks directly adjacent to their property of snow and ice. That means that you may be able to hold a business or a private homeowner responsible for a sidewalk trip and fall accident, if it happens right outside.

In other cases, however, you may need to sue the township, city, county, state or other government agency responsible for maintaining the sidewalk. Because suing a government agency can be very complex and have strict deadlines, you should speak to a Philadelphia accident injury lawyer as soon as possible after your accident.

How Long Do You Have to File a Sidewalk Accident Lawsuit?

Pennsylvania’s statute of limitations will apply to your case, which limits the time you have to file a claim to two years from the date of the sidewalk accident. However, if your accident involves a liable government entity, then there is a notification deadline as well. You must give a city, county, or state government agency a notice of intent to sue within six months. Missing any of these deadlines will preclude you from recovering any compensation whatsoever.

What To Do After a Sidewalk Accident?

The steps you take after being injured in a sidewalk accident can significantly impact your right to compensation. Here is what to do:

• Collect evidence. Take photos and/or videos of dangerous sidewalk conditions that led to your accident, the surrounding area, and your injuries.
• Talk to witnesses. If anyone witnessed your accident, ask for their contact information. If they are willing, ask them to make a recorded statement on your phone of what they saw.
• Seek medical attention as soon as possible and follow all of your doctor’s advice and treatment plan.
• Contact a sidewalk accident attorney. Most offer a free consultation and can give you critical advice on how to proceed with your injury claim.

Speak to a Skilled Sidewalk Accident Lawyer Today

At Rosenbaum & Associates, we offer free consultations, so potential clients can ask us about the strength and value of their cases with no further obligation or charge. You are always welcome to contact us online or call our Philadelphia sidewalk accident lawyers at (215) 569-0200.