If sidewalks are not properly maintained, serious accidents can occur. Something as simple as a crack or uneven pavement can cause a serious injury. Read on to learn more about sidewalk accidents in New Jersey and what to do in the event of an injury.
Who is responsible for a sidewalk accident?
Many people believe that their city or municipality is responsible for maintaining sidewalks. Often, this is not the case. In New Jersey, the owner of the property adjacent to the sidewalk is responsible for keeping the walking surface safe.
Fulfilling the burden of proof:
If you are injured in a sidewalk accident, you may be entitled to recover compensation. But, in order to recover the compensation you deserve, you will have to prove that your accident was a result of another party’s negligence. In order to do this, it is important to take the following steps:
- Call 911- Above all, your health and safety are most important. The police can send an ambulance, file an accident report, and keep the scene safe.
- Seek medical attention- Many people attempt to avoid hospital visits, but this can be dangerous. It is possible to sustain a serious injury without realizing it. Additionally, this will allow you to document the origin and extent of your injuries. Before leaving the hospital, be sure to ask for a copy of any relevant medical documents.
- Document the scene- While waiting for the ambulance to arrive, it is important to take pictures and videos of the hazardous conditions that caused the accident to occur.
- Obtain witness contacts- If anyone saw the accident occur, they may be able to corroborate your version of events. Ask for their name and contact information.
- Reach out to an experienced attorney- If you have been injured due to the negligence of another party, you may face physical, emotional, and economic burdens. An attorney can help you recover the compensation you need and deserve.
What is the statute of limitations?
In New Jersey, the statute of limitations for a personal injury claim is generally two years from the date of the accident. If you wait longer than two years to file your claim, you will most likely be barred from taking legal action. While two years may seem like a long time, it is easy to miss important deadlines while you are recovering from a serious injury. Be sure to reach out to an attorney as soon as possible.
If you have been injured in a sidewalk accident, our firm is here to help. Contact us today to discuss your case.
Contact our Firm
Our firm understands how serious criminal and personal injury cases are. We are prepared to guide you towards a favorable outcome because we believe false accusations or preventable injuries should never cause a person harm. This is why those who require experienced legal counsel in New Jersey should do themselves a favor and contact The Law Office of Andrew S. Maze today for any criminal and personal injury matters.