Who is Liable for a Sidewalk Accident in Pennsylvania?

In Pennsylvania, liability for a sidewalk accident usually falls on the property owner responsible for maintaining the area where the injury occurred. Residential, municipal, and commercial property owners must keep sidewalks safe and free of hazards like ice or cracks. If an injury occurs due to negligence in maintaining the sidewalk, the property owner can be held liable.

If you’ve suffered an injury in a sidewalk accident, consulting a Philadelphia slip and fall injury lawyer can help you understand your legal rights and seek compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.

What Factors Determine Liability in a Sidewalk Accident?

Several factors determine liability in a sidewalk accident, including the property owner’s knowledge of the hazard, the condition of the sidewalk, and who is responsible for maintaining the area. Each of these factors must be evaluated to determine negligence.

• Knowledge of the hazard: Did the property owner know about the unsafe condition, or should they have reasonably known? Regular inspection and upkeep are required.
• Condition of the sidewalk: Hazards like ice, uneven surfaces, or debris can show negligence if not addressed in a reasonable time.
• Responsibility for the property: Liability varies depending on whether the sidewalk is maintained by a residential, commercial, or municipal party.

If you’ve been injured due to a hazardous sidewalk, consulting a Philadelphia personal injury lawyer can help you understand who is liable. An attorney will assess your case, gather evidence, and pursue compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.

Can the Municipality Be Held Liable for Sidewalk Accidents?

Yes, municipalities can be held liable for sidewalk accidents in Pennsylvania, but only under specific circumstances. If the sidewalk is on public property or under municipal control, it is their responsibility to ensure the area is safe. When streets, sidewalks, and alleys are not properly maintained, municipalities may be liable if a hazard causes an injury.

Proving Municipal Liability

To hold a municipality accountable, you must prove that they knew about the hazardous condition and failed to address it within a reasonable time. However, municipalities are often protected by governmental immunity laws, which can limit the situations where a claim can be brought.

Filing a Claim Against a Municipality

There are strict filing deadlines when pursuing claims against a municipality, including the need to submit a notice of intent to sue within a specific period. Missing this deadline can prevent you from seeking compensation. An attorney can guide you through this process and ensure that all legal requirements are met.

What Compensation Can You Seek After a Sidewalk Accident?

After a sidewalk accident, you may be eligible to claim various types of damages, including economic, non–economic, and punitive damages. Compensation typically covers both financial losses and personal suffering, depending on the extent of your injury. Some of the types of damages you may claim include:

• Economic damages: These cover tangible costs like medical expenses, hospital bills, and lost wages from missed work.
• Non-economic damages: These address the emotional and personal toll, such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, or diminished quality of life.
• Punitive damages: In cases involving extreme negligence, the court may award punitive damages to punish the responsible party and prevent future incidents.

Understanding what types of damages you can claim in a personal injury suit can help you assess which forms of compensation may be available for your case. By knowing what damages apply to your situation, you can ensure you pursue the full compensation you are entitled to.

What Should You Do After a Sidewalk Accident?

After a sidewalk accident, you should take several important steps to protect your rights and improve your chances of receiving compensation. First, seek immediate medical attention, even if your injuries seem minor at first. A doctor’s evaluation can help document your injuries, which will be critical in building your case.

You should also gather evidence from the scene, including photographs of the hazardous condition that caused your fall, the surrounding area, and your injuries. If there are witnesses, collect their contact information, as their statements can support your claim. Finally, contact a lawyer to help you through the legal process and hold the responsible party accountable.

How Can a Lawyer Help You with a Sidewalk Accident Case?

A lawyer can provide essential support for a sidewalk accident case by helping you understand your legal rights and navigate the claims process. With their experience, they can ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

Investigating Liability

Your lawyer will conduct a thorough investigation to determine who is responsible for maintaining the sidewalk where the accident occurred. This could involve gathering evidence such as witness statements, accident reports, and municipal records to establish whether the property owner or municipality failed in their duty to maintain the sidewalk safely.

Handling Negotiations

A lawyer will handle all negotiations with the responsible party’s insurance company. Insurance adjusters often aim to minimize payouts, but an experienced attorney will fight for a fair settlement that covers medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.

Filing the Right Documents

In cases involving a municipality, strict deadlines must be followed, and a lawyer can ensure all required documents are filed correctly and on time. Missing these deadlines could prevent you from seeking compensation, so having legal guidance is essential to staying on track.

Contact a Lawyer for Help with Your Sidewalk Accident Case

If you or a loved one has been injured in a sidewalk accident, the legal process can be complex, especially when multiple parties may be responsible. At Morelli Law Firm, we can help determine who is liable for a sidewalk accident in Pennsylvania.  

With over $1 billion recovered for our clients and a proven record of success, we are ready to support you through every step of the legal process. Contact us today for a free consultation and let our experienced team help you pursue justice and secure financial recovery for your injuries.