Standing Up For Texas Injury Victims

Who’s responsible if you slip and fall on a public sidewalk in Texas?

On Behalf of | Jan 23, 2025 | Personal injury, Slip And Fall

You’re walking down a public sidewalk when suddenly you slip and sustain a serious injury. Your life could change in the blink of an eye. You might have to deal with long-term recovery and mounting medical bills. Texas sidewalk accidents happen more often than many people realize, especially in busy urban areas like Dallas, Houston and Austin.

Understanding who may be responsible for your sidewalk accident can help you protect your legal rights. The path to compensation depends on several key factors. These include where the accident took place, local law and proper documentation of the incident.

What determines responsibility for your sidewalk accident?

Sidewalk maintenance responsibilities can overlap between different parties in Texas. Several entities might bear responsibility for your accident, including:

  • City government: Many Texas cities maintain responsibility for public sidewalk repairs and safety hazards that could cause accidents
  • Property owners: Local ordinances may require businesses and homeowners to keep adjacent sidewalks free from dangerous conditions
  • Construction companies: Active construction sites must ensure safe passage and proper warnings around modified sidewalks
  • Utility companies: Organizations performing sidewalk work remain liable for hazards created during repairs or installations

Understanding who these responsible parties might be can help guide your next important steps after an accident.

Steps you should take after a sidewalk accident

Time plays a crucial role in protecting your legal rights after a sidewalk accident. You should focus on these essential actions right away:

  • Photograph the hazard that caused your fall
  • Get contact information from any witnesses
  • Report the incident to the property owner or city
  • Seek medical attention for your injuries
  • Save all medical bills and related expenses
  • Contact a personal injury attorney for guidance

Texas law provides limited time to file injury claims. Your ability to recover compensation may depend on proving that another party was responsible for your accident. An experienced attorney can help you pursue justice if dangerous sidewalk conditions cause you harm.