Sidewalks and parking lots with potholes, cracks, and uneven surfaces can pose serious slip and fall hazards for pedestrians in Ohio. Property owners have a duty to ensure their sidewalks and lots are properly maintained and safe for the public. If they fail in this responsibility, they may be held liable for injuries. This article examines the hazards posed by deficient sidewalks and lots, and the legal responsibilities of property owners in Ohio.
The Dangers of Potholes and Cracks
Potholes, cracks, broken pavement, and uneven surfaces are common on aging and deteriorating sidewalks and parking lots. These defects create tripping hazards and can cause pedestrians to lose their footing and fall. Potholes filled with water or ice are especially hazardous.
Potholes and cracks are particularly dangerous for seniors, disabled individuals, and those wearing high heels or unfamiliar with the area. Children focused on play can also easily trip on sidewalk defects. In parking lots, carrying packages and not paying attention increases the tripping risks.
Poor lighting conditions, vegetation overgrowth, and lack of railings on inclined surfaces can further increase the hazards of cracked and uneven sidewalks and parking lots.
Legal Obligations of Property Owners in Ohio
Under Ohio law, property owners have a legal duty to maintain their premises in as safe a condition as reasonably possible. This responsibility applies to both public and private property owners.
For public sidewalks, the adjacent property owner is responsible for maintenance and repairs under local municipal codes in Ohio cities. Private property owners must inspect their sidewalks and parking lots regularly, actively look for hazardous defects, and promptly fix any problems.
If a property owner knows a sidewalk or parking lot has a dangerous condition but does nothing, they can be considered negligent. Failing to repair defects or warn pedestrians of known hazards constitutes negligence in Ohio.
To prove the property owner is liable for injuries, the following negligence criteria must be established:
- A duty to keep the premises reasonably safe
- Breach of this duty by allowing hazardous defects
- The plaintiff’s injury occurred due to the condition
- The hazardous condition directly caused the damages
If these elements are proven, the property owner will be legally responsible for the plaintiff’s medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and other costs.
Recovery Options for Slip and Fall Victims
If you slip and fall due to a cracked sidewalk or uneven parking lot surface in Ohio, you have legal options for pursuing injury compensation. Consulting with a personal injury attorney is highly recommended.
An attorney can investigate your accident, gather evidence proving negligence, calculate your damages, negotiate a settlement, and take the case to trial if needed. They will handle communications with insurance companies and opposing counsel.
Personal injury lawyers generally work on a contingency fee basis, meaning legal fees are only deducted if compensation is obtained for you. This provides accessible counsel without large upfront costs.
Monge & Associates: Trusted Attorneys Across 19 States
If you or a loved one has suffered an injury in a sidewalk or parking lot slip and fall accident in Ohio, Monge & Associates can help. With 32 offices in 19 states, including Ohio, Georgia, and Virginia, our team has the knowledge and resources to effectively handle your case. For a free consultation, contact us today at (888) 477-0597. Our experienced personal injury attorneys are here to protect your rights and pursue the maximum compensation you deserve. Don’t delay in taking legal action – call now!