Uneven sidewalks can be dangerous: cracked pavement, sudden elevation changes, and poorly maintained walkways send thousands of Maryland residents to the emergency room every year. These accidents often result in broken bones, head injuries, or long-term mobility challenges. If you were hurt in a sidewalk fall, turn to McGowan & Cecil, LLC. We help injury victims in Maryland recover the damages they need deserve. Call today to consult with an experienced slip and fall accident lawyer.
Common Causes of Uneven Sidewalk Accidents
Sidewalks deteriorate for many reasons, and when they are not promptly repaired, they create tripping hazards. Some of the most common causes include:
- Cracks caused by tree roots pushing up the pavement
- Weather damage from repeated freezing and thawing cycles
- Flooding that erodes or washes out the ground beneath the sidewalk
- Construction zones where temporary patches fail or debris is left behind
- Lack of regular inspections and maintenance by property owners or municipalities
In high-traffic areas, such as shopping centers in Glen Burnie, or residential neighborhoods in Bowie and Greenbelt, poorly maintained sidewalks are an ongoing safety concern.
Who May Be Liable for a Sidewalk Fall?
One of the biggest challenges in sidewalk accident claims is determining who is legally responsible. Liability may rest with:
- Adjacent property owners who fail to maintain sidewalks in front of their homes or businesses
- Municipalities or counties accountable for maintaining public walkways
- Contractors or construction companies whose defective work or unsafe job sites create hazards
Each case is fact-specific, and Maryland law makes liability issues complex. An experienced attorney can investigate ownership records, maintenance agreements, and repair histories to identify the correct party and hold them accountable.
Types of Injuries from Uneven Sidewalk Falls
A sudden fall on hard pavement can lead to significant injuries. Victims of sidewalk accidents frequently suffer:
- Broken wrists, ankles, and hips from bracing during a fall
- Concussions or more severe traumatic brain injuries
- Back or spinal cord damage that may limit mobility
- Deep cuts, abrasions, or scarring
- Lasting pain and reduced independence requiring rehabilitation
For older adults, falls can be hazardous, often resulting in extended hospital stays and ongoing care needs.
Challenges in Maryland Sidewalk Accident Cases
Slip and fall cases involving sidewalks come with unique challenges under Maryland law. Some of the key hurdles include:
- Notice requirements for government claims: If the sidewalk is maintained by a municipality or county, the Maryland Local Government Tort Claims Act often requires written notice within one year of the accident. Missing this deadline can bar your claim.
- Contributory negligence rule: Maryland law is strict—if you are found even 1% at fault, you may be denied compensation. Property owners and insurers often use this rule to argue that victims were distracted or not paying attention to their surroundings.
- Evidence collection: Photos of the defect, witness statements, and medical records are essential. Hazards may be repaired quickly after an accident, making it critical to document the condition right away.
At McGowan & Cecil, we understand these legal obstacles and know how to build strong cases that protect our clients’ rights.
Damages We Will Fight For
Our team will fight for the compensation you need and deserve, including damages such as:
- Medical bills for emergency treatment, surgery, rehabilitation, and ongoing care
- Lost income and reduced future earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Permanent disability or disfigurement
- Diminished quality of life
- Out-of-pocket expenses, such as mobility aids or home modifications
Trust us to handle all the details, so you can focus on recovering.
Why Choose McGowan & Cecil
McGowan & Cecil has represented injury victims throughout Maryland for decades. We know how local courts and insurers handle sidewalk accident claims, and we understand the procedures for filing against municipalities when required.
Clients turn to us for personal service, open communication, and aggressive representation. When you work with us, you will always know where your case stands and have a team committed to your recovery.
Get Help After an Uneven Sidewalk Accident in Maryland
An uneven sidewalk can cause life-changing injuries in an instant. You should not have to face the medical bills, lost income, and pain on your own. At McGowan & Cecil, LLC, we fight for victims of sidewalk accidents to hold property owners and municipalities accountable. Call today to schedule a free consultation with our sidewalk accident lawyers.