Isenberg & Hewitt, PC | A Business And Personal Injury Law Firm | Since 1989
Isenberg & Hewitt, PC | A Business And Personal Injury Law Firm | Since 1989
To talk with a lawyer call (770) 901-2666
Isenberg & Hewitt, PC | A Business And Personal Injury Law Firm | Since 1989
To talk with a lawyer call (770) 901-2666

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Who Is Responsible For Unsafe Sidewalks In Georgia?

On Behalf of | Oct 12, 2016 | Guardrail Safety

Cracked, raised or otherwise unsafe sidewalks can result in serious trip and falls. The owner of the adjoining property may be responsible for damages such as medical bills.

Many people assume that municipalities are responsible for injuries caused by unsafe sidewalks. However, in many Georgia communities, the property owner is responsible. This area of law is known as premises liability.

Who pays for sidewalk slip and falls?

Just because you fell on a sidewalk and suffered an injury does not mean the homeowner is responsible. To obtain compensation, you must show that your injury was caused by an unsafe condition knew about or should have known about.

So what are unsafe conditions that can lead to a personal injury claim? Here are a few examples:

  • A cracked sidewalk
  • A sidewalk with a hole in it
  • A sidewalk with a raised or loose slab
  • Sidewalk repairs that do not meet local code requirements
  • An uneven sidewalk
  • Sidewalks that do not drain water

Losses caused by sidewalk trip and falls may be covered by homeowners insurance. If the municipality is responsible, losses may be covered by general liability insurance. Examples of losses include medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

If a municipality is responsible for the sidewalk condition, you have a limited amount of time to file notice of legal action. If you miss the deadline, you lose your right to file a personal injury claim.