Sidewalk Injury: Types, Cases, and Statistics

Sidewalk injuries can be due to uneven pavement, debris, poor lighting, and other reasons. These injuries are often preventable if the property owner takes appropriate measures to maintain a good sidewalk space. 

If you got injured in a sidewalk accident, a court may rule that you receive compensation for your damages. But how serious is having an accident on a sidewalk, and what legal actions can you file? Read on for the different types and sidewalk injury statistics to better understand what you can do in a similar situation.

Sidewalk Injury Facts and Statistics

Under California Law, a sidewalk injury occurs when you sustain any damage or harm while using a public sidewalk. The state mandates property owners to maintain their part of the sidewalk so that it doesn’t endanger or hinder anyone using it.

However, enforcement varies between local governments, as the state only gives liability if a city approves an ordinance addressing it. It also stipulates that the property owners are liable only if they are directly responsible for sidewalk defects.

Los Angeles City is one of the most glaring examples, as property owners refuse to pay to repair sidewalks and instead rely on their officials. The city’s sidewalks are hazardous, with a backlog of over 50,000 complaints. San Diego is another instance, with its buildup of 37,000 repairs. 

Some areas in California—including the aforementioned cities—also settle lawsuits resulting from sidewalk accidents, often with millions of dollars in payouts. In 2021, Los Angeles spent $12 million in settlements.

Sidewalk injuries commonly result from uneven surfaces, cracks, or other defects that pose a risk to pedestrians. These injuries can include slips, trips, and falls, leading to various levels of harm, from sprains or fractures to head trauma.

These accidents may be unintentional but severe. It’s worth noting that accidental injury is one of the most common causes of death in the United States, with around 58.5 thousand affected per year.

5 Types of Sidewalk Injury

Sidewalk injuries in California encompass a range of types. Here are some of them.

1. Slip and fall accidents

Uneven or slippery sidewalks can cause a person to slip and fall. These could result in broken bones if they try to catch themselves or head trauma if they tumble backward. Multiple fractures can severely impact a person’s daily activities and place them in considerable pain for a long time.

2. Bicycle accidents

Someone riding their bicycle on the sidewalk can be injured if they hit cracks, potholes, or other defects. Falling from the bike can result in numerous broken bones and also put the cyclist in danger of falling onto the street and into traffic.

3. Back injuries

Slipping or falling can cause severe spinal cord injuries or even a herniated disc. Such damage can permanently alter a person’s ability to work or move. The risk increases significantly for older adults as they’re more fragile, and their injuries can take years to recover.

4. Cuts and wounds

A fall can leave someone with deep wounds or cuts if they come in contact with an uneven surface or jagged edges. These injuries are common on the hands, legs, and face. If the victim couldn’t clean the wound properly due to the dirt and debris on the sidewalk, it could become infected or scarred.

5. Sprains

If someone’s in a rush, they could sprain or twist their ankle from a defect on the sidewalk. They could also injure their wrists if they attempt to catch themselves as they fall. A sprain can make everyday tasks more challenging, and the pain can be debilitating. 

Causes of Sidewalk Injury

Several factors could lead to a sidewalk injury, including the following.

1. Uneven surfaces

Poorly maintained sidewalks result in uneven surfaces. The damage may not be apparent as concrete can blend in with their surroundings. These broken sections or changes in elevation can catch the feet of someone in a hurry or wearing heels, even if they are being careful.

2. Weather conditions

Rain can make sidewalks slippery and, thus, more dangerous. Some areas in California, such as Tahoe City and Big Bear Lake, also experience snowfall, contributing to very slick concrete.

3. Debris

Fallen leaves, branches, and other debris can clutter a sidewalk. Some businesses may also set up and display their goods, making the sidewalk harder to navigate and increasing the chance of an accident. Other obstructions also include improperly placed trash cans and construction equipment.

4. Insufficient lighting

Accidents are likely to occur in areas with low, insufficient lighting or at night because it makes hazards harder to see. 

5. Tree roots

Poor maintenance of trees can cause the roots to become overgrown and jut out from under the pavement. Left alone, they could continue to spread, creating a network of hazards that could injure someone if they trip over them.

It’s worth noting that while state law places liability on the property owners whose establishments connect with the sidewalk, it may vary depending on the municipality. There must be a local ordinance that assigns blame when injury occurs.

These Sidewalks are Made for Walking

People use sidewalks every day to get where they need to go. However, accidents can still happen due to uneven surfaces, poor maintenance, inclement weather, poor lighting, and other reasons.

Pursuing medical care and conferring with a knowledgeable personal injury attorney in Orange County, CA is imperative if you get injured on a sidewalk in California. In case of a sidewalk injury lawsuit, RMD Law is here to help. We have a team of practiced lawyers ready to represent and guide you through the process so you can gain the reparation you deserve.

Contact us today for a free evaluation.