Can I Recover Damages if I Fall on a Sidewalk?

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on recovering damages from sidewalk falls. At Front Range Injury Attorneys, we understand the challenges and legal complexities that individuals face when they experience a fall on a sidewalk. In this article, we will provide you with valuable information and actionable insights to help you navigate the process of seeking compensation for your injuries. Our team of experienced legal professionals is dedicated to assisting you throughout this journey.

If you sustained injuries in an accident in Colorado, contact the personal injury lawyers at Front Range Injury Attorneys today to schedule your free consultation. Our experienced legal team are knowledgeable and zealous advocates for our clients and their cases. We treat our clients as people, not case files. Learn more about how we can help you pursue compensation for your injuries and damages. Contact our Denver law firm to learn more.

Understanding Sidewalk Falls

Sidewalk falls can occur due to various factors such as uneven pavement, potholes, cracked surfaces, or inadequate maintenance. These incidents often result in injuries ranging from minor cuts and bruises to severe fractures and head trauma. If you have been a victim of a sidewalk fall, it is crucial to understand your rights and the potential for seeking compensation. An experienced slip and fall attorney in Denver can help you navigate these complicated legal issues.

Assessing Liability

Determining liability in sidewalk fall cases can be complex. In general, property owners have a legal responsibility to maintain safe conditions on their premises, including sidewalks. Their duty to you and other people depends upon their relationship with you. At the highest duty, property owners must take reasonable steps to discover sidewalk defects or damage and remedy the problem in a reasonable time and manner. That can be placing reasonable warning signs and repairing the defect in a reasonable time to avoid harm. Property owners may be held liable for negligently failing to inspect the sidewalk regularly and ignoring safety complaints reported by customers, employees, or other members of the public.

Government Claims for a Sidewalk Accident in Colorado

Many sidewalks in Colorado exist on public property. The state, city, or other governing public agency is responsible for the upkeep and safety of those sidewalks. Governments are generally immune to personal injury lawsuits for accident injuries. States may pass special tort laws granting exceptions to sovereign immunity to allow you to sue the state or its subordinate government entities. In Colorado, the Colorado Governmental Immunity Act (CGIA) allows people to sue the state, municipalities and other government agencies for specific types of accidents involving negligence, recklessness, or willful intent to cause harm.

If you were injured on a public sidewalk, there is a special process you must follow to pursue a claim against a Colorado government entity. You must file a specific notice of your intent to sue the governmental agency within 180 days of the accident. The notice must contain specific elements outlined in the statute and must be filed with the statutory agent for service. After doing so, you must still prove the agency or its employees committed an act of negligence or other tort causing the accident injuries. You may have to file a personal injury lawsuit against the agency within the statute of limitations for personal injury actions. In Colorado, the statute of limitations for most personal injury claims is two years. Your attorney will evaluate the deadlines specific to your case to protect your right to recover compensation.

Seeking Medical Attention

Your health and well-being should always be the top priority. After experiencing a fall on a sidewalk, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention, even if your injuries initially appear minor. Some injuries, such as internal bleeding or head trauma, may not be immediately apparent but can have serious long-term consequences. Prompt medical evaluation not only ensures your well-being but also helps establish a medical record linking your injuries to the incident.

Documenting the Incident

To strengthen your case, it is essential to gather evidence and document the incident as thoroughly as possible. Consider the following steps:

1. Photographs: Take clear photographs of the accident scene, focusing on the hazard that caused your fall. Capture different angles and close-up shots to provide a comprehensive visual representation.
2. Witness Statements: If there were witnesses present at the time of your fall, obtain their contact information and ask if they would be willing to provide a statement supporting your claim.
3. Accident Report: Report the incident to the property owner or manager, if applicable. Request a copy of any accident reports they may have filed.
4. Medical Records: Keep a record of all medical documents related to your injuries, including doctor’s reports, test results, and treatment receipts. These records will help establish a link between your injuries and the sidewalk fall.

Contacting a Slip and Fall Attorney

Navigating the legal aspects of recovering damages from a sidewalk fall can be challenging. Consulting an experienced personal injury attorney is crucial to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. An attorney will guide you through the legal process, protect your rights, and advocate on your behalf.

Understanding Compensation for Your Injuries

In sidewalk fall cases, compensation may cover various damages, including:

1. Medical Expenses: This includes the cost of medical treatments, hospital stays, surgeries, medications, rehabilitation, and any necessary assistive devices.
2. Lost Wages: If your injuries result in missed work or reduced earning capacity, you may be entitled to compensation for the income you have lost or will lose in the future.
3. Pain and Suffering: Compensation may be awarded for the physical and emotional pain caused by your injuries, as well as any long-term effects on your quality of life.
4. Property Damage: If personal belongings, such as glasses or electronic devices, were damaged during the incident, you may be eligible for reimbursement.

The Legal Process

The legal process for recovering damages from a sidewalk fall generally involves the following steps:

1. Initial Consultation: During an initial consultation with your attorney, you will discuss the details of your case, provide the evidence you have gathered, and address any concerns or questions you may have.
2. Investigation and Evidence Collection: Your attorney will conduct a thorough investigation, gathering additional evidence, reviewing medical records, and consulting experts if necessary.
3. Settlement Negotiations: Your attorney will enter into negotiations with the responsible parties, seeking a fair settlement that adequately compensates you for your injuries and damages. If a satisfactory settlement cannot be reached, your case may proceed to litigation.
4. Litigation and Trial: If your case goes to trial, your attorney will present your case before a judge and/or jury. They will argue for your rights, present evidence, and advocate for fair compensation.

Recovering damages from a sidewalk fall requires a systematic approach and expert legal guidance. At Front Range Injury Attorneys, we are committed to providing you with the support and representation you need. If you or a loved one has suffered injuries due to a sidewalk fall, reach out to our experienced legal team today. We are here to help you pursue justice and secure the compensation you deserve.