If a sidewalk that was cracked, broken, or defective in some way caused your injuries, you have rights. You might be entitled to compensation after a trip and fall in Johns Creek. The property owner of the sidewalk has a duty to keep it safe. If the owner failed and you were injured, contact a Johns Creek sidewalk accident lawyer.
Most people don’t think too much about sidewalks. But just like any property, sidewalks can become damaged with time. If the party responsible for the sidewalk is negligent, it can lead to a painful accident.
If you were injured in a trip and fall on a sidewalk, contact John Foy & Associates. We have over 20 years of experience helping accident victims. We also will not charge you a thing unless we win your case.
Call us at (404) 400-4000 or contact us online for a free consultation.
How Sidewalks Become Defective
A sidewalk can become dangerous with normal wear and tear. Conditions can change at any time. A sidewalk might become cracked, broken, or defective because of:
- Changing weather conditions, such as freezing and thawing
- Lots of foot traffic
- Poor installation
- Heavy water flow over or under the sidewalk
- Badly-compacted soil
A property owner or landowner is usually at fault if a sidewalk causes injuries. The owner might have failed to watch for issues and fix them. Sometimes, an owner did not take preventative measures to avoid cracking or breakage.
If you were injured on a sidewalk, don’t ignore the issue. Someone might be liable for your injuries and costs. But you will need to determine who is at fault.
You’ll need to pursue a legal case for compensation for your damages. According to the Official Code of Georgia Annotated (OCGA) §51-12-4, it’s your legal right to do this.
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Trip and Fall Sidewalk Injuries
Every trip and fall accident is different. Some people can fall and walk away with minor scrapes. Other times, a victim suffers serious or life-threatening injuries.
Injuries also depend on the victim. The elderly or those with disabilities are more likely to suffer severe injuries, but anyone can become terribly injured. Don’t assume your well-being without seeing a doctor first. You could end up having injuries that are worse than you thought.
Common injuries from tripping on a broken or cracked sidewalk include:
- Head injuries
- Neck and back injuries
- Broken wrists, ankles, arms, hips, or other bones
- Strains and sprains
- Cuts and bruises
- Road rash
Sprained ankles are fairly common with sidewalk injuries. A victim’s foot might get stuck between concrete as they fall, causing a break or strain.
Victims can also suffer a bad injury as they try to catch their fall. If there were any dangerous objects on the ground, for instance, the victim can fall on them and get hurt worse.
Document your injuries as much as possible. Don’t wait to see a doctor. You’ll need proof that you got medical attention and treatment. Also, don’t miss your follow-ups, and go back if you experience more pain or issues.
Knowing Who’s At Fault for a Trip and Fall on a Sidewalk
Property owners in Georgia must maintain safe premises, including outdoor property. If someone owns a sidewalk, they are responsible for keeping it safe for visitors.
When an owner’s negligence leads to an accident, they are liable for the costs. This can include landowners responsible for sidewalk upkeep. Before seeking compensation, you’ll need to know who is accountable for injuries on the sidewalk where you fell.
The at-fault party for a trip and fall on a sidewalk could be a:
- Homeowner
- A business owner or property owner
- Landowner
- City or county government
The liable party will depend on the situation, and it can be difficult to uncover this information. It’s best to contact a Johns Creek trip and fall lawyer for help. Your lawyer will know how to determine who is responsible for the area where you fell.
At John Foy & Associates, we can help. We understand the complexity of premises liability law in Johns Creek. Our founder is known as the “Strong Arm” because we’re not afraid to stand up for what’s right. We can help you build a strong claim for the compensation you deserve.
Contact us today to learn more during a free consultation. There is no charge to you unless we win you a settlement or court award. To get started for free, call (404) 400-4000 or contact us online.
The Deadline for Filing Your Trip and Fall Claim
Every state has a statute of limitations for when you can take legal action. In Georgia, you typically have two years to take legal action for a trip and fall. If a government agency is liable, you might only have six months.
If you miss the deadline, you might be unable to recover any damages. So, don’t wait to get started. Contact an experienced lawyer who can help you seek compensation for your:
- Medical bills
- Prescription medications
- Lost wages
- Loss of earning capacity
- Vehicle repairs
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional trauma
Consider every way the accident has affected you. You’ll need to discuss your losses with your lawyer. That way, you can know how a fair settlement offer should look.
Talk to a Trip and Fall on Sidewalks Accident Lawyer
If someone else was negligent in your accident, you might have an insurance claim or lawsuit. But don’t wait to get started. Talk to a lawyer who can help you start building a strong injury case.
At John Foy & Associates, we have over 20 years of experience helping accident victims. We only work with those who have been injured. We’re also not afraid to stand up to the insurance companies and their tactics.
Contact us today for a free, no-risk consultation. Call (404) 400-4000 or contact us online. We do not collect a fee from you unless we win you money. Plus, we are available 24/7 to take your call.
404-400-4000 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form