Most people do not think of the sidewalks in front of their home as part of their property. But what happens if there is a crack in that sidewalk or some other kind of similar damage, and someone falls on that sidewalk?
Are you in any way responsible for that injury?
Who is responsible for repairing sidewalks?
In general, the city is responsible for identifying problem sidewalks and repairing them. There are some cities in America where the property owner might be responsible for repairing sidewalks in front of their home. In this case, the city might expect the property owner to make the repair, or they might make the repair but bill the owner for the work.
No matter whose responsibility it is to repair the sidewalk, a damaged sidewalk is not something a homeowner should ignore.
Who is liable if a damaged sidewalk causes injury?
If someone trips on a crack in a sidewalk, falls, and breaks a bone, bruises an elbow, or even just gets a bloody nose, the property owner might shoulder some of that liability, even if it is the city’s responsibility to repair broken sidewalks.
Because of this, it is extremely important for property owners to take the initiative to report damaged sidewalks, even if it is not the property owner’s responsibility to repair that sidewalk.
Taking steps to alert the city to hazards and have those hazards removed is the responsibility of every citizen. If you have to hire a private company to make the repair, this might be the best way to avoid any potential lawsuits because of a damaged sidewalk.
Check with your city if you are unsure who is responsible for identifying sidewalk issues and making repairs to sidewalks that have been damaged.
