Sidewalks should be safe to walk on—but in many California cities, cracks, gaps, and lifted concrete can create real hazards. Tripping over uneven pavement might seem like a simple accident, but these falls can lead to serious injuries like broken wrists, concussions, or hip fractures—especially for older adults.
In California, property owners—sometimes including private businesses or even local governments—have a legal duty to keep walkways in safe condition. If someone trips due to poorly maintained sidewalks, the responsible party may be held liable for injuries. According to the California Civil Code § 1714, property owners are expected to use reasonable care to prevent harm to others.
If you trip and fall on a sidewalk:
- Seek medical attention, even if the injury seems minor.
- Take photos of the location, including the crack, gap, or height difference.
- Look for any nearby cameras or witnesses.
- Report the incident to the property owner or city, if applicable.
Responsibility often depends on who owns or maintains the property where the fall occurred. For example, in some cities, homeowners are responsible for sidewalks adjacent to their property, while in others, the city is responsible. The California Government Claims Board handles claims involving public property injuries—but strict deadlines apply.
At the Law Offices of David Davidi, we help clients who were injured in slip or trip and fall accidents due to unsafe sidewalks. Our team investigates who’s at fault, gathers the right evidence, and fights for fair compensation to cover medical expenses, lost wages, and more.
If you’ve been hurt in a sidewalk fall, don’t wait. Contact us today for a free consultation and let us help you move forward.
