Slip and fall accidents on government properties are sadly common. There have been so many reports of slips and falls by pedestrians on public sidewalks that many state and local governments have responded by instituting a variety of changes to reduce the number of incidents. To understand what actions your government has taken, whether or not you’ve been injured, or learn more about the legal rights of pedestrians who fall on government property, read about who is responsible for a slip and fall on government property.
Basic Liability
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Although slip and fall injuries on government property may be a problem, the property itself is generally not responsible for any injuries that pedestrians sustain. However, government officials or even regular employees responsible for the maintenance and upkeep of the property might be held legally liable if they fail to take appropriate measures to ensure that pedestrians remain safe.
Who is Responsible for a Slip and Fall on Government Property?
If injuries are suffered d due to a slip and fall accident on government property, the most likely defendants in a lawsuit that could be brought in response to such an incident would be:
According to some cases, government officials may also be held liable for the injuries sustained by pedestrians who fall on public property. However, these types of injuries are usually the government’s responsibility because they did not own or maintain the property in question or did not follow their own established policies and procedures.
Everyday Actions Taken in Response to a Slip and Fall Accident
In response to high numbers of slip and fall accidents on government property, many municipalities try to reduce the number of incidents by changing sidewalks and other areas in which children interact daily. For example, some municipalities have included curb bumpers as part of their sidewalk repairs. These bumpers are specifically designed to prevent falls on curbs.
If you fall on government property, the government will generally not be held responsible for any injuries sustained by you or your family members. However, the government may be considered legally responsible if they fail to take appropriate measures to ensure pedestrians remain safe.
Slip and fall accident attorneys who represent injured parties are prepared to help you understand if the government is responsible for your injuries, the rights you have, and what options you may have regarding pursuing a claim or settlement. If you have lost wages or suffered injuries due to a slip and fall accident on government property, working with an attorney should be of great help.
What Protects a Government Entity from Liability?
Government entities are almost always immune from personal injury lawsuits brought from slip and fall accidents. This immunity is typically based on the notion that government entities are not liable for injuries individuals sustain because they did not own or maintain the property in question.
To find out more about the legal rights of pedestrians who fall on government property, you may want to contact an attorney who specializes in slip and falls cases.
