What to do After a Sidewalk Accident in New Jersey

Most people do not imagine themselves getting into a serious accident simply walking down the road. However, the unfortunate truth is that it happens more than we’d like to think. If you have been injured in a sidewalk accident, you are most likely now looking into recovering financial compensation to help you recover. Please read on to learn more about the legal process going forward:

What are the most common causes of sidewalk accidents?

There are several reasons sidewalk accidents occur, though the most common is almost always property owner negligence. Some of the most frequent causes of sidewalk accidents can include loose debris, surface problems, standing water, poor lighting, or any other dangerous substance left unattended.

How do I know who is responsible for a sidewalk accident?

Many people are under the assumption that municipalities are responsible for all sidewalk accidents. While in some cases, this is true, generally, in New Jersey, property or homeowners are actually responsible for keeping the sidewalk adjacent to their property reasonably safe for all passersby. If you are injured because a property owner failed to take the necessary safety precautions to keep their sidewalk hazard-free, you most likely have a valid premises liability claim.

Unfortunately, filing a claim is not enough to win the compensation if which you are entitled. There is a strong chance the insurance companies will try and disprove your claim to deny you compensation, which is why you need an aggressive, experienced attorney on your side. Our attorneys will work to recover various types of evidence, such as pictures or videos of the accident, witness statements, police reports, medical documents, and more.

What is the statute of limitations for sidewalk accidents in New Jersey?

When you seek to hold a negligent party accountable for an accident, you have a limited amount of time to do so. In New Jersey, the statute of limitations is two years. Rather simply, this means that you will have two years from the date of your accident to sue the negligent property owner. If you wait more than two years to file a claim, you will be barred from suing. Do not let this happen. Our firm is ready to get the claims process started–all you have to do is ask.

Contact our experienced New Jersey firm

The law firm of Mattleman, Weinroth & Miller, P.C., is composed of experienced defense attorneys throughout the state of New Jersey. We understand the severity and immediacy of all personal injury claims and additional legal matters, and we provide each of our clients with compassionate and aggressive legal assistance, every step of the way. Please contact our office for a free initial consultation and get any questions answered regarding your legal case.