INTRODUCTION:

Cracked and uneven sidewalks may seem like minor inconveniences, but they pose serious risks to pedestrians. Every year, thousands of people suffer injuries from tripping and falling on poorly maintained sidewalks. In this blog post, we'll explore why cracked and uneven sidewalks are a hazard, the common injuries they can cause cause, and what you can do if you have been injured in a trip and fall accident.

THE DANGERS OF CRACKED AND UNEVEN SIDEWALKS:

Sidewalks are meant to provide a safe pathway for pedestrians, but when they are cracked or uneven, they become hazardous. Cracks can form due to age, tree roots, weather conditions, or poor maintenance. Similarly, uneven surfaces can result from tree roots pushing up on the pavement, soil erosion, or improper installation.

These defects create tripping hazards that are especially dangerous for vulnerable pedestrians, such as the elderly, children, and people with mobility issues. A simple trip on a cracked sidewalk can lead to serious injuries including broken bones, sprains, strains and head injuries.

COMMON INJURIES CAUSED BY TRIP AND FALL ACCIDENTS:

The injuries sustained in trip and fall accidents can vary in severity, but some of the most common ones include:

1. Broken bones: Falling on a hard surface like concrete can easily result in fractures, particularly in the wrists, arms, hips and ankles.
2. Sprains and strains: Twisting or overextending the joints during a fall can lead to sprained ligaments and muscles.
3. Head injuries: Impacting the head on the pavement can cause concussions, lacerations or even traumatic brain injuries. 

SEEKING LEGAL HELP

If you have been injured in a trip and fall accident caused by a cracked or uneven sidewalk, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and related expenses. However, pursuing a claim against the responsible party can be complex, as it often involves proving negligence.

A skilled trip and fall lawyer, like me, can assess your case, gather evidence, and advocate on your behalf to seek the compensation you deserve. I will investigate factors such as the cause of the sidewalk defect, the property owner's or municipalities duty of care, and whether any negligence contributed to the accident.

CONCLUSION:

Cracked and uneven sidewalks may seem innocuous, but they present real dangers to pedestrians.  If you have been injured in a trip and fall accident caused by a sidewalk defect, do not hesitate to seek legal help. By holding negligent parties accountable, you can not only obtain compensation for your injuries but also help prevent similar accidents from happening to others in the future.  Stay safe and watch your step!!!