Sidewalks are a critical component of municipal infrastructure. They help make urban spaces walkable and reduce pedestrian exposure to motor vehicle traffic. Sidewalks should allow even those who rely on mobility assistance devices, such as canes, walkers or wheelchairs, to safely travel an area without a motor vehicle.
There are thousands of miles of sidewalks throughout New Jersey, including many sidewalks in front of residential and business neighborhoods in Jersey City. Most people take for granted that they can walk short distances safely in urban areas. Unfortunately, not all sidewalks are in safe, walkable condition all of the time. Sometimes, owners do not properly maintain their sidewalks. People can then sustain injuries if they slip, trip or fall.
Who is responsible for injuries that occur due to poorly-maintained sidewalk?
Owners have maintenance obligations
In Jersey City, as well as many other municipalities in New Jersey, property owners have sidewalk maintenance obligations. The party that owns the adjacent property has a responsibility to repair damaged sidewalk. They also need to keep the sidewalk clear and free from dangerous debris.
Proper sidewalk maintenance includes snow and ice removal, usually within 24 hours of precipitation falling. Property owners need to ensure that grass clippings, downed leaves and other debris do not create a slipping hazard for pedestrians.
If the sidewalk cracks or becomes uneven due to incursions or frosting, owners have a responsibility to repair the sidewalk to prevent people from tripping and getting hurt. This responsibility applies to both residential property owners and businesses.
People hurt due to unsafe sidewalk conditions may have grounds for a premises liability lawsuit. Seeking compensation from property owners for medical costs and lost wages can help people who get hurt due to icy or unsafe sidewalks.