When an individual is walking down the sidewalk, chances are, he or she isn’t particularly worried about how safe that sidewalk is. However, if a property owner fails to maintain the part of the sidewalk that they are responsible for, it could become dangerous for anyone walking by. If you are the victim of a Jacksonville sidewalk accident, you must consider your legal options. For decades, Ansbacher Law has proudly represented accident victims throughout North Florida when they have been hurt by the negligence of another party. If you need strong legal representation after a sidewalk accident, you can count on us. Contact the Jacksonville sidewalk accident attorneys from Ansbacher Law today to discuss your case.
Sidewalk Accident Attorneys in Jacksonville, FL
There are a number of factors that can contribute to a sidewalk accident. However, it is the responsibility of the party that owns or controls the sidewalk to ensure that there are no hazards present. Some of the many hazards that often contribute to a sidewalk accident in Jacksonville may include the following:
- Uneven surface
- Potholes
- Loose debris
- Standing water
- Hazardous materials
Sidewalk Owner Liability
Oftentimes, the property owner that is adjacent to the sidewalk is the party responsible for maintaining the sidewalk’s safety. If you have been seriously injured in a sidewalk accident and wish to take legal action, you and your attorney are responsible for determining the negligent party. Ansbacher Law is ready to help. If it is determined that a governmental entity owns or controls the sidewalk, your attorney can help you present the written notice of claim that section 768.28, Florida Statutes, requires before suit may be filed against the state or one of its agencies or subdivisions.
Recovering Damages After an Accident
If you are the victim of a sidewalk accident, you may be entitled to recover compensation, known as damages. To recover damages, you, the victim, must prove that the property owner knew, or should have reasonably known, about the dangerous sidewalk conditions and failed to fix them, ultimately leading to your accident. If successful, you may be able to recover compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and more.
Statute of Limitations in Florida
It is important to be aware that in the state of Florida, personal injury cases based on negligence must generally be filed no later than two years from the date of the accident. If you are taking legal action against a governmental entity, separate presuit notice requirements apply under section 768.28, Florida Statutes, and recovery may be subject to the statutory limits in that section.
Contact a Jacksonville Sidewalk Accident Attorney
If you were seriously injured in a sidewalk accident, it is important to consider your legal options. The attorneys at Ansbacher Law represent clients throughout North Florida after they have been injured in an accident. We are ready to help you, too. For quality legal representation when you need it most, contact Ansbacher Law today.