Sidewalk Accident Attorneys in Santa Clara, CA
Pedestrians rely on sidewalks to safely get around Santa Clara County on foot. For the most part, sidewalks are well maintained and provide pedestrians the shelter they need from vehicles on the road. Unfortunately, this is not always the case and accidents happen. Sidewalk accidents can result in serious injuries that impact victims for years down the road. For over 40 years, the Law Offices of Brian J. O’Grady has represented sidewalk accident victims across Santa Clara County. If you are suffering physically, emotionally, or financially after being involved in a sidewalk accident, we are here to help. Contact our office today to learn how we can help you recover the justice you deserve.
Causes of California Sidewalk Accidents
When property owners fail to maintain the sidewalk adjacent to their property, a pedestrian can become seriously injured. There are many factors that should be taken into consideration when it comes to determining the cause of a sidewalk accident in the state of California. Some of the common causes of sidewalk accidents include the following:
- Uneven surfaces
- Cracked surfaces
- Slippery substances
- Loose debris
Who is responsible in a sidewalk accident?
Often times, when someone is hurt in a sidewalk accident, they are unsure of who should be held liable. It is important to determine liability because anyone who wishes to file a personal injury claim is required to fulfill the burden of proof. Typically, the owner of the sidewalk is the owner of the adjacent property. However, there are times when the sidewalk is considered municipal property, which can complicate things. If your injury occurred on municipal property, you should be sure to file a Notice of Claim. If you need assistance determining liability in your sidewalk accident case, contact the Law Offices of Brian J. O’Grady today to discuss your situation.
Proving Your Case & Recovering Compensation
If the sidewalk owner knew or should have reasonably known about the dangerous conditions but failed to fix the issue, they may be held liable for any injuries that occurred. It is important to begin collecting evidence as soon as possible so you can fulfill the burden of proof. This is especially true if you were injured due to unattended snow or ice because it can quickly melt and erase all evidence. Evidence can be collected with photos, witness testimony, and surveillance footage, among other things. Upon collecting enough evidence to fulfill the burden of proof, you may be able to recover compensation for the following damages:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Lost earning potential
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
Contact a Santa Clara County Sidewalk Accident Attorney
For over 40 years, the Law Offices of Brian J. O’Grady has proudly represented injured individuals across Santa Clara County. If you are suffering after being injured in a sidewalk accident, it is essential that you have strong legal representation on your side. We are committed to helping you recover the compensation you are entitled to. Contact the Law Offices of Brian J. O’Grady today to learn how we can help.
