Who Is Responsible for Injuries Caused by Defective Sidewalks?

If you’ve recently been injured by a defective or poorly maintained sidewalk, you may be entitled to significant compensation. Sidewalk injuries often cause painful falls, expensive medical bills, and disruptions to your everyday life—but you don’t have to face this alone. 

Attorney Ira M. Maurer has spent over 40 years fighting for injured clients, winning over $100 million in settlements and verdicts. Nationally recognized for his record of success, he brings unmatched expertise to every case. 

At Maurer Law Firm PLLC, we regularly help residents of Fishkill, NY, hold negligent parties accountable under premises liability law. Let our proven experience help you secure the justice and compensation you deserve.

Common Causes of Sidewalk Injuries

Sidewalk injuries commonly occur because of various hazards, including:

• Cracked or uneven pavement
• Tree roots pushing through concrete
• Potholes or depressions
• Poorly maintained sidewalks in winter, including ice and snow
• Unmarked construction or repair zones

These conditions can cause severe trips or falls, leading to broken bones, sprains, or even head injuries. Pinpointing the exact sidewalk hazard that led to your injury is key to establishing liability.

Who Is Responsible for a Defective Sidewalk?

Determining liability for sidewalk injuries in Fishkill often depends on local laws and specific circumstances. Responsibility might rest with the following:

• Property Owners: Property owners adjacent to sidewalks are often required to maintain safe conditions. If negligence, such as failing to fix or warn of hazards, causes injury, they can be held responsible.
• Municipalities or Local Government: Sidewalks are sometimes public property, making local governments accountable. However, suing a government entity involves stricter rules and shorter deadlines for filing claims.
• Third-Party Contractors: If your injury resulted from poorly performed construction or repair work, the contractor hired for the job might be responsible for damages.

How to Prove Liability and Seek Compensation

If you’ve been injured due to a defective sidewalk, you’ll need to gather evidence to prove liability, which can include:

• Taking clear photos of the hazardous condition as soon as possible
• Collecting contact information from witnesses
• Reporting the incident to authorities or property owners promptly
• Keeping detailed medical records of your injuries

Proving liability in sidewalk injury cases requires demonstrating negligence. An experienced premises liability attorney can be your strongest ally, helping ensure you receive the full compensation you’re entitled to. Potential compensation may cover medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Protect Your Rights After a Sidewalk Injury in Fishkill, NY

In New York, premises liability cases, including sidewalk injury claims, have strict deadlines known as statutes of limitations. Consulting with an attorney soon after your injury ensures you meet these deadlines and preserve critical evidence. 

If you’ve suffered a sidewalk injury in Fishkill, NY, you have important legal rights and options for seeking compensation. Contact Maurer Law Firm PLLC today at 845-896-5295 for a free consultation.