Few things are worse than walking down the sidewalk, only to unknowingly encounter a safety hazard. Though sidewalks are supposed to be designated, safe spaces for pedestrians to travel, this isn’t always the case. Please continue reading and reach out to a dedicated New York City personal injury lawyer from the Law Office of Richard M. Kenny to learn more about the most common sidewalk safety hazards and how our legal team can help if you’ve been injured due to encountering one. Here are some of the questions you may have:
What are some of the most common sidewalk safety hazards in New York City?
Sidewalks can quickly turn unsafe when certain safety hazards are thrown into the mix. Just some of the most common sidewalk safety hazards we see are as follows:
- Uneven surfaces: Sidewalks with uneven surfaces, such as cracks, potholes, or uneven pavement, pose a tripping hazard.
- Slippery surfaces: Sidewalks covered in ice, snow, or wet leaves can become extremely slippery and increase the risk of slips and falls.
- Poor maintenance: Neglected sidewalks with overgrown vegetation, loose bricks, or broken tiles can create hazards and impede safe passage.
- Insufficient lighting: Inadequate lighting on sidewalks can make it difficult for pedestrians to see potential hazards, leading to accidents.
- Obstructed pathways: Sidewalks cluttered with obstacles, such as trash cans, bicycles, or construction materials, obstruct the path and increase the risk of accidents.
- Lack of accessibility: Sidewalks without proper ramps, curb cuts, or accommodations for individuals with disabilities create barriers to safe passage.
- Damaged or missing handrails: Absence or deterioration of handrails on stairs or elevated sections of the sidewalk can pose a danger, especially for the elderly or those with mobility challenges.
- Poor drainage: Sidewalks with inadequate drainage systems may accumulate water or develop puddles, increasing the risk of slips and falls.
How do I win a personal injury claim?
To win a personal injury claim, you will have to gather and present sufficient evidence to satisfy the burden of proof. Simply put, you’ll need to prove that you were injured as a direct result of another party’s negligence. Some of the most valuable types of evidence in personal injury claims can include:
- Pictures of the hazard
- Surveillance footage of the incident
- Witness testimony
- A copy of the police report filed at the scene
- Any clothing that may have been ripped or damaged in the accident
Importantly, you should only file your personal injury claim with a competent and experienced attorney in your corner. Fortunately, if you’re reading this, you are in the right place. We are here to fight for you, every step of the way.
CONTACT OUR EXPERIENCED NEW YORK CITY FIRM
Our entire legal team is dedicated to providing the advice you need and the personalized attention you deserve. If you have been injured due to another party’s negligence, call 866-886-0892 or fill out our contact form to schedule a free consultation with a New York City personal injury lawyer. You may be entitled to financial compensation, which can help you on your road to recovery.
